1) "Yo, Dude, your stuff offends my mom..."
An interesting question was raised: "Would it be fair to ask my roommate to put his Pagan items in his room when my mom visits?" Well, let's look at it this way. Would it be fair to ask your mom to put her Christian items in her room when your friend visits? What would any rational person do in this situation? I would think a RATIONAL person would naturally say "F---K no!" (ok, perhaps without the expletive)
Well, one suggestion made was this:
"Say to your roommate: 'Dude, can you put your religious stuff away while my mom visits and in return I'll get you a pizza and some beer?'"...Seriously??? Which one would offend you more, being told that your roommate's mom find the stuff in YOUR HOME offensive and you need to remove it or that you'll get beer and pizza for doing this "favor"? I'm not sure which one I'd be offended by more.
The bottom line is this is your roommate's home too. He is free to keep out whatever religious stuff he wants just as you are free to keep out whatever religious stuff you want. That's the beauty of constitutions and charters that allow FREEDOM OF RELIGIOUS BELIEF. It doesn't matter the opinion of a visitor...it's YOUR home. You're not obligated to remove your religious and spiritually significant items just because someone is VISITING your home who happens to disagree with your spirituality. If there is a problem like this, perhaps arrange to meet in another location...one which has no offensive material or decor.
...seriously, beer and pizza?? What were they thinking??
2) Pagan Street Preaching??
I was surprisingly shocked the other day to see a big sign noting the Pagan origins of Christianity and some people handing out pamphlets. It wasn't something I expected to see on a week day. I almost wished I'd had stopped and explored their paraphernalia.
This was the second in a line of Pagan related sightings for that day (the third was a van I followed with a sticker that said "Protected by Witchcraft"...I can't remember the first).
I'd been recently exploring the Pagan population of the community in which I live. I'd contemplated contacting the organizer of an eclectic circle nearby and asking to join, just so I can get a more physical sense of community and regular practice. It seems the Pagan population in my area is bigger than I thought...though establishments and activities are still lacking.
But this particular display caught me off guard. It's not something typical you see from Pagans (and it might not have been Pagans to begin with...the large font saying "Pagan" was what caught my eye). Pagans don't seem particularly interested in nothing the origins of religions that aren't Pagan...usually you'll find that in fluffs or atheists trying to get a rise out of Christians.
Discussing my thoughts on various topics
Showing posts with label Mashup. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mashup. Show all posts
Wednesday, September 16, 2015
Tuesday, August 18, 2015
Ma'iingan's Mashup
We haven't had a mashup in a while so let's do one now!!
1. "But I've heard some people call Wicca a "Goddess religion". Wouldn't that mean it was mainly for women?"
--I don't know where loons like this get their logic. How in the world does a question like this make ANY sense.
Let's apply this to the Christian religion
"I've heard some people call Christianity a "God religion". Wouldn't that mean it was mainly for men?"
Is it so incomprehensible for men to want to worship a Goddess? There are thousands, if not millions of women in the world who worship a male God...be it Jesus, the God of Abraham, Allah, etc. Why aren't these religions criticized as being only for men? Why is it religions that focus on either duality or monotheism with a Goddess as central, only for women?? Religions such as Judaism, Christianity and Islam are not claimed as being ONLY for men, so why is Wicca thought of only as for women? Especially considering Wicca was formed by a MAN: i.e. Gerald Gardner, and was influenced by his acquaintance Aleister Crowley.
2) Bringing Items Home from Abroad for Use in your Practice
This topic was inspired by two sources: 1) a forum topic and 2) my enjoyment of the program "Border Security".
I'm not entirely sure how the American border works, but the Canadian border is a bit sticky. Obvious things such as knives and other weapons need to be declared before entry. I'm not 100% sure what's allowed and not allowed, but the last I heard, some double-edged blades that aren't used for decorative purposes only are not legal in Canada (though this could have changed over time). So, if you were to purchase a beautiful, ornately decorated athame from somewhere like the US or England, you will either not be allowed to bring it home OR you have to pay a hefty fee before you can take it home.
In the instance of things that could transfer soil or threaten the ecosystem of the country or area in which you live, I'm fairly certain they would be denied at the border. Untreated woods, seeds, bark, insects (alive or dead), etc would most likely be a no-go for entry into at least Canada.
Before you decide you want to bring home a sample from your travels abroad, it would be HIGHLY beneficial if you were to do a bit of research into the importing laws for your country. You don't want to end up disappointed at the border, when the Border Agents confiscate your treasures because they're not allowed.
1. "But I've heard some people call Wicca a "Goddess religion". Wouldn't that mean it was mainly for women?"
--I don't know where loons like this get their logic. How in the world does a question like this make ANY sense.
Let's apply this to the Christian religion
"I've heard some people call Christianity a "God religion". Wouldn't that mean it was mainly for men?"
Is it so incomprehensible for men to want to worship a Goddess? There are thousands, if not millions of women in the world who worship a male God...be it Jesus, the God of Abraham, Allah, etc. Why aren't these religions criticized as being only for men? Why is it religions that focus on either duality or monotheism with a Goddess as central, only for women?? Religions such as Judaism, Christianity and Islam are not claimed as being ONLY for men, so why is Wicca thought of only as for women? Especially considering Wicca was formed by a MAN: i.e. Gerald Gardner, and was influenced by his acquaintance Aleister Crowley.
2) Bringing Items Home from Abroad for Use in your Practice
This topic was inspired by two sources: 1) a forum topic and 2) my enjoyment of the program "Border Security".
I'm not entirely sure how the American border works, but the Canadian border is a bit sticky. Obvious things such as knives and other weapons need to be declared before entry. I'm not 100% sure what's allowed and not allowed, but the last I heard, some double-edged blades that aren't used for decorative purposes only are not legal in Canada (though this could have changed over time). So, if you were to purchase a beautiful, ornately decorated athame from somewhere like the US or England, you will either not be allowed to bring it home OR you have to pay a hefty fee before you can take it home.
In the instance of things that could transfer soil or threaten the ecosystem of the country or area in which you live, I'm fairly certain they would be denied at the border. Untreated woods, seeds, bark, insects (alive or dead), etc would most likely be a no-go for entry into at least Canada.
Before you decide you want to bring home a sample from your travels abroad, it would be HIGHLY beneficial if you were to do a bit of research into the importing laws for your country. You don't want to end up disappointed at the border, when the Border Agents confiscate your treasures because they're not allowed.
Wednesday, June 24, 2015
Naive Novice or Troubling Troll? - Ma'iingan's Mashup Special
The latest escapade in Y!A drama took place yesterday that actually sparked up some interesting conversation (if not some entertaining drama for drama lovers).
It all started with what seemed like an innocent question: "Will a Valley Affect Wicca?" I clicked the link hoping to shed some light on the concept that Wicca is a religion and that valleys and hills have no effect on Wicca whatsoever.
But that's where the drama started. Innocently answering that Tarot has nothing in herently to do with Wicca, and that Wicca is a religion focusing on the worship of Gods, somehow the asker felt it was "too mean" an answer. I'm puzzled as to how I would have answered this in a more polite manner.
The asker then goes on to target two other regulars (both of whom have an accumulated 40 years combined experience in teaching and practice) and claims their initial answers were also "mean".
I've been around for a while and I've encountered my fair share of "mean" answers to questions. But the answers from users "Kristen" and "Mackenzie" were far from "mean". Of course, that's not to say that the conversation didn't get heated after repeated attempts at clarification, but the OP wanted none of it.
But the point of this is that its sparked in me topic ideas. So, despite being the "big meanie" that I am, I'm going to use this negative opportunity, and turn it into something positive.
I'm sure the asker won't mind (rolls eyes) but I'll use his/her questions for the basis of my post.
The originating question that started it all:
--I'm completely unsure how one (who has even the most remote, basic understanding of Wicca) could assume that geographic location would prohibit one from practicing their religion. Ok, I'll grant that it'd be a bit harder for one to practice Wicca in say "Iraq", but we're not talking about cities and countries here, we're talking landscape. The original asker never really clarified what s/he meant with this question (rather went off on a tangent about "meanies"). Hills, Valleys, Caves, Water...all have little effect on the worship of Gods. The Gods are omnipresent; they're everywhere, so whether you live on top of the highest mountain in the world, or in the deepest cave, they're still there, transcending all that is physical. So to answer the question, no...valleys will have no "affect" on Wicca.
To go on, s/he continues to compare Wicca to Tarot, in which s/he believes that tarot is somehow affected by location, and is ineffective in valley areas (not to mention that apparently tarot has a time limit as to it's "future-predicting abilities"). Tarot is also not affected by geographical location. It's based on user intuition, not landscape.
S/he then goes on to try to "educate" the rest of us on what Wicca is (because apparently the combined 55 years of knowledge from the three of us is incorrect), but I'll clarify all of this in perhaps another post.
Once the user was through with this posting, s/he went on to ask another question:
It all started with what seemed like an innocent question: "Will a Valley Affect Wicca?" I clicked the link hoping to shed some light on the concept that Wicca is a religion and that valleys and hills have no effect on Wicca whatsoever.
But that's where the drama started. Innocently answering that Tarot has nothing in herently to do with Wicca, and that Wicca is a religion focusing on the worship of Gods, somehow the asker felt it was "too mean" an answer. I'm puzzled as to how I would have answered this in a more polite manner.
The asker then goes on to target two other regulars (both of whom have an accumulated 40 years combined experience in teaching and practice) and claims their initial answers were also "mean".
I've been around for a while and I've encountered my fair share of "mean" answers to questions. But the answers from users "Kristen" and "Mackenzie" were far from "mean". Of course, that's not to say that the conversation didn't get heated after repeated attempts at clarification, but the OP wanted none of it.
But the point of this is that its sparked in me topic ideas. So, despite being the "big meanie" that I am, I'm going to use this negative opportunity, and turn it into something positive.
I'm sure the asker won't mind (rolls eyes) but I'll use his/her questions for the basis of my post.
The originating question that started it all:
To go on, s/he continues to compare Wicca to Tarot, in which s/he believes that tarot is somehow affected by location, and is ineffective in valley areas (not to mention that apparently tarot has a time limit as to it's "future-predicting abilities"). Tarot is also not affected by geographical location. It's based on user intuition, not landscape.
S/he then goes on to try to "educate" the rest of us on what Wicca is (because apparently the combined 55 years of knowledge from the three of us is incorrect), but I'll clarify all of this in perhaps another post.
Once the user was through with this posting, s/he went on to ask another question:
--No. I'm not "mean" to those new to the craft. I may sometimes come off crass to some people depending on the day I've had, but one shouldn't take responses they get so personally. I AM however, mean to trolls. They get what they give. Like I say, Karma's a bitch, and so am I.
And apparently, correcting misinformation with reputable FACTS is considered "mean". I won't go further with this one.
The next question in this menagre:
--Apparently my response to this next benign question was also unacceptable. As you can see if you click the above link, before the updates, "Anon" failed to mention that s/he wanted opinions on some links s/he had provided, therefore I responded quizzically. I DID attempt to edit my response, but in the childish manner that befits a Y!A troll, s/he blocked me so I could not, so I merely commented on my own post.
Do I think it's acceptable for a Wiccan to ask for funds if they want to teach Wicca? There's a difference between accepting money to teach Wiccan fundamentals, and accepting money for crafting services. Teaching requires more than casting a spell. A spell can be cast with nothing more than the person themselves so to ask for money really makes no sense, especially if you're not using anything. Teaching a class requires books for students to read, as well as notes to pass out, and therefore one needs to obtain paper, ink for the photocopier OR change to use a public photocopier, rent a space if their own home is too small, fuel to get to said space AND to obtain necessary materials, etc. Teaching costs money, and in order to learn, you may need to pay.
Naturally, though, like everyone else in the world there are those who are generous enough to teach without asking for payment, and that's perfectly fine. But it would be common courtesy to offer a donation. Seems kind of greedy to take without giving.
And even if you were to try to take the easy route and teach online, even that can cost money. Depending on if you want to do it professionally, you may need to obtain a server or host site such as "Moodle" to form classes on. You would need to find extra teachers to teach other aspects of Wicca and any associated activities. You would need to pay for electricity for computer/internet use, internet services, and the teacher's time. It's unrealistic for a student to expect to be taught for free (though there are some free classes online, you get what you pay for).
Not paying for classes is like not paying for books to learn. Would you expect to get books from Chapters or Barnes and Noble to learn Wicca and expect not to pay for them??
But the original question seems to imply that one is not an "authentic" Witch if they choose to charge for teaching. What makes someone "authentic"? It's not their choice in charging a fee for teaching or not. An authentic Witch is someone who has dedicatedly spent their time (usually years) to study and apply their study in practice. I wouldn't consider someone with 2 years experience "authentic" when compared to someone who has 25 years experience.
Now, after all of this was said and done (this "Anon" who I have the sneaking suspicion is also another user) other questions were asked in response to this sense of hostility:
"Kristen" asked (in a nutshell, because her "question" is rather lengthy) why a novice would show this much hostility towards corrected information.
Well, for one, it's becoming painfully clear this person is a troll. Genuine seekers wouldn't react this way to correction. In the next question I will post below, "Kristen" goes on to say that when she was a seeker, she sucked up all the information and corrected information she could. She didn't go off on a tangent when someone questioned her knowledge. She accepted the correction and moved on.
Similarly with me. Even today I am corrected on a number of misinformation I had held for the past 15 years. Do I go to the person correcting me "You're a big meanie! You're lying and you don't know what you're talking about!"? No. I verify what they've said and stand corrected. That, to me, would be the basis of someone GENUINELY wanting to learn. Markers for someone looking to validate their misinformation would plug their ears crying "Meanie!" "Persecution!"
"Mackenzie's" question is a bit shorter:
My opinion is that it's not really "newbies", but $RW devotees who don't really want to learn Wicca, but what to learn "pseudo-Wicca" where $RW tells you its all about love spells and spells to get back at your tormentors.
Genuine newbies, like I said above, search in earnest for the best information, and that includes reading reputable books, talking to experienced practitioners (and by experienced practitioners, I mean people who have practiced and studied for at LEAST 10+ years), even teachers, and learn all they can, and when confronted with some misinformation and are corrected, they accept it graciously. I mean, who wants to practice something incorrectly? If you want to be taken seriously as a serious, dedicated Wiccan, why WOULDN"T you want the best, most correct information you can find? The only reason I can surmise as to why someone would become so hostile when confronted with facts is that they're not really looking for "Wicca" and are looking for "pseudo-Wicca".
The bottom line here is...if you're looking to become something, ANYTHING...not just Wiccan, do your research. Learn from reputable sources and accept corrections and criticisms not as a personal attack on you and your education, but as an attempt at helping you do things right. If you're really serious in pursuing your dreams, you'd welcome correction and helpful criticism without the ego-bruised persecution complex.
Saturday, January 31, 2015
Ma'iingan's Mashup
1) "Can" and "Do" Witches...
I think a popular question brought to the attention of many Witches and Pagans is "Can a Witch" or "Do Witches" use particular things...such as divination tools.
When faced with a question of "Can" or "Do" Witches participate in something, think of it this way. Don't focus on IF a person of a particular practice or spiritual belief can do something...focus on if YOU as a PERSON want to participate in something. If you have the interest...research it, learn about it...and if your desire is strong enough...practice it. Don't focus so much on IF you as a practitioner of such-and-such religion or practice can. It's irrelevant.
2) IDIOTS!!!
It's gotta be a full moon or something, but there seems to be an influx of idiots in the Pagan community lately. Yeah, yeah, who am I to judge, but if you were to encounter these people, you would be thinking the same thing as me
First, I encountered a PRIME example of a "fluffy bunny" when I participated in a forum thread discussing the success of spells. She proceeded to tell us we weren't doing "true" spells because we weren't "ceremonial magicians" and that magic for abundance or prosperity weren't "true" spells. Come on! Some of us need some help now and then, it's not like we're asking for millions here. I cast one, because we were in need (and yes, it worked and we came out of our financial bind). I wouldn't be so quick to call that nonsense, when for all she knew, we could have lost our house if I hadn't.
Second I encounter a dumbass who continuously jumps from one religion to another (daily, mind you) without doing ANY research about those religions (aside from a brief Wikipedia search). So far he's claimed he's an "Asatru, Celtic, Roman, Buddhist, Catholic, etc", yet claims to be looking for ONE religion to follow (offendingly, he's turned his eye to Native American spiritualism and based on his track record, it's not far fetched to assume he can apply so-called "Native" practices into his...entourage).
It's become literally exhausting for me to try to get this individual to realize 1) he's none of these things (based on the questions and lack of response to the answers to indicate any sort of knowledge) 2) he needs to actually READ the replies he gets and 3) he's a hypocrite. This guy is seriously only interested in collecting labels rather than actually understanding what these religions mean, and that is SOOOOOO offensive to those who actually follow these religions.
3) Prayer Beads, but no Prayers??
I love looking up different patterns for rosaries and prayer beads because I love creating and re-creating for my own personal uses. I've found numerous designs that I love to try to replicate, however, none of the patterns I've come across have prayers to go with them. I have NO idea how to pray a "rosary" that consists of 27 beads in 3 groups of 9 or 36 beads in 3 groups of 13.
I see LOTS of examples, lots of beads for sale, but no ideas on how to pray them! Do people figure that people will just choose random prayers or make them up on the spot to pray? Not everyone is able to create their own prayers...for some prayer, other than "Help me Goddess with such-and-such" is difficult to come up with.
So far, the only suggestions on prayers are alterations to Christian prayers, or the ones that divide up and devote to the Triple Goddess (not something I subscribe to).
It would be nice that along with the DIY's and tutorials they gave some prayers to go along with them. Obviously they're made with a pattern in mind, you'd think that was because they had prayers associated with that pattern.
I think a popular question brought to the attention of many Witches and Pagans is "Can a Witch" or "Do Witches" use particular things...such as divination tools.
When faced with a question of "Can" or "Do" Witches participate in something, think of it this way. Don't focus on IF a person of a particular practice or spiritual belief can do something...focus on if YOU as a PERSON want to participate in something. If you have the interest...research it, learn about it...and if your desire is strong enough...practice it. Don't focus so much on IF you as a practitioner of such-and-such religion or practice can. It's irrelevant.
2) IDIOTS!!!
It's gotta be a full moon or something, but there seems to be an influx of idiots in the Pagan community lately. Yeah, yeah, who am I to judge, but if you were to encounter these people, you would be thinking the same thing as me
First, I encountered a PRIME example of a "fluffy bunny" when I participated in a forum thread discussing the success of spells. She proceeded to tell us we weren't doing "true" spells because we weren't "ceremonial magicians" and that magic for abundance or prosperity weren't "true" spells. Come on! Some of us need some help now and then, it's not like we're asking for millions here. I cast one, because we were in need (and yes, it worked and we came out of our financial bind). I wouldn't be so quick to call that nonsense, when for all she knew, we could have lost our house if I hadn't.
Second I encounter a dumbass who continuously jumps from one religion to another (daily, mind you) without doing ANY research about those religions (aside from a brief Wikipedia search). So far he's claimed he's an "Asatru, Celtic, Roman, Buddhist, Catholic, etc", yet claims to be looking for ONE religion to follow (offendingly, he's turned his eye to Native American spiritualism and based on his track record, it's not far fetched to assume he can apply so-called "Native" practices into his...entourage).
It's become literally exhausting for me to try to get this individual to realize 1) he's none of these things (based on the questions and lack of response to the answers to indicate any sort of knowledge) 2) he needs to actually READ the replies he gets and 3) he's a hypocrite. This guy is seriously only interested in collecting labels rather than actually understanding what these religions mean, and that is SOOOOOO offensive to those who actually follow these religions.
3) Prayer Beads, but no Prayers??
I love looking up different patterns for rosaries and prayer beads because I love creating and re-creating for my own personal uses. I've found numerous designs that I love to try to replicate, however, none of the patterns I've come across have prayers to go with them. I have NO idea how to pray a "rosary" that consists of 27 beads in 3 groups of 9 or 36 beads in 3 groups of 13.
I see LOTS of examples, lots of beads for sale, but no ideas on how to pray them! Do people figure that people will just choose random prayers or make them up on the spot to pray? Not everyone is able to create their own prayers...for some prayer, other than "Help me Goddess with such-and-such" is difficult to come up with.
So far, the only suggestions on prayers are alterations to Christian prayers, or the ones that divide up and devote to the Triple Goddess (not something I subscribe to).
It would be nice that along with the DIY's and tutorials they gave some prayers to go along with them. Obviously they're made with a pattern in mind, you'd think that was because they had prayers associated with that pattern.
Tuesday, October 7, 2014
Ma'iingan's Mashup
It's time...for another episode of "Ma'iingan's Mashup"!!!
1) "Don't be so Open Minded..."
--Driving home after running a few errands today I passed an electronic billboard outside of a church. The brightly lit message read "Don't be so open minded, you'll spill your brains" or words to that effect.
I couldn't believe I read that! After reading that, what popped into MY mind was "Don't be so closed minded...you'll suffocate your brain".
2) "Im Wiccan but not Pagan"
--lol I saw this in a forum discussion and I just had to laugh at it. By definition, Wicca is a Pagan religion, so for one to claim they're Wiccan but not Pagan makes NO sense lol. Another forum member asked if they then strictly practiced Witchcraft. If they did, then by definition they would be a Witch and not a Wiccan, yet still sorta Pagan (going by definition, of course). And if that were the case, why would she call herself a Wiccan? By ignorance, perhaps? I was originally interested in the discussion purely for the debate, but now I'm interested in it for a much different reason lol.
**Update**
Boo-urns...for some reason the blog topic is gone. I was really interested in what this person had to say. I really wish this discussion continued. Blargh.
3) "Black Book of Shadows"
--In the same forum as above, someone starts a discussion in which they encounter someone who claims they work the "dark side of the craft", and plans on making a "Black Book of Shadows". By this I assume they plan to input dark magical information.
-_-...stares blankly...blinks repeatedly
Um...I have probably a dozen "Black" books of shadows, and they all pretty much contain the same information. In fact, for probably the first 5-8 years I'd been a Witch, it was almost DEMANDED that a Witch use a BLACK book of shadows. When I created my first book(s) (my book took up three notebooks), it was taboo because I had used what I could find and all I could find was a flowery, shiny purpley-pink notebook (of which I still have). Heaven forbid my book not be black!
Anyway, at the time all Witches created their books with black covers. None of them were "working the dark side of the craft" or whatever, in fact, many of them (or at least the ones **I** talked to) found a "dark side" distasteful, and anyone who WAS a part of something "dark" were looked down on (NOTE: I know better now), mostly because they were into it for showmanship, rather than anything practical.
Anyway. I see this post and think to myself in a sarcastic manner...congrats buddy. You're making a "black book of shadows". I have maybe half a dozen black books of shadows. I also have brown ones, multi colored ones, and ones with prints, and they all have the same info. It's not that compelling that you make a "black book of shadows" because you work the "dark side of the craft". I work what many would consider to be a "dark side" when needed, but 1) I don't flaunt that information as though it were a banner...I do it primarily for protection and 2) I don't store it strictly in a "black" book. Look around my blog and you will see my other books.
This dude seriously needs to grow up. I'll assume this person is probably 13, saw some new fad tv show featuring a spell book and thought "hmm...I wanna do that because my life isn't that interesting".
It makes me feel sorry for all of us who truly embrace this craft and try to make it in this world in a serious manner, and have to deal with children like these. It's no damned wonder no one takes us seriously.
1) "Don't be so Open Minded..."
--Driving home after running a few errands today I passed an electronic billboard outside of a church. The brightly lit message read "Don't be so open minded, you'll spill your brains" or words to that effect.
I couldn't believe I read that! After reading that, what popped into MY mind was "Don't be so closed minded...you'll suffocate your brain".
2) "Im Wiccan but not Pagan"
--lol I saw this in a forum discussion and I just had to laugh at it. By definition, Wicca is a Pagan religion, so for one to claim they're Wiccan but not Pagan makes NO sense lol. Another forum member asked if they then strictly practiced Witchcraft. If they did, then by definition they would be a Witch and not a Wiccan, yet still sorta Pagan (going by definition, of course). And if that were the case, why would she call herself a Wiccan? By ignorance, perhaps? I was originally interested in the discussion purely for the debate, but now I'm interested in it for a much different reason lol.
**Update**
Boo-urns...for some reason the blog topic is gone. I was really interested in what this person had to say. I really wish this discussion continued. Blargh.
3) "Black Book of Shadows"
--In the same forum as above, someone starts a discussion in which they encounter someone who claims they work the "dark side of the craft", and plans on making a "Black Book of Shadows". By this I assume they plan to input dark magical information.
-_-...stares blankly...blinks repeatedly
Um...I have probably a dozen "Black" books of shadows, and they all pretty much contain the same information. In fact, for probably the first 5-8 years I'd been a Witch, it was almost DEMANDED that a Witch use a BLACK book of shadows. When I created my first book(s) (my book took up three notebooks), it was taboo because I had used what I could find and all I could find was a flowery, shiny purpley-pink notebook (of which I still have). Heaven forbid my book not be black!
Anyway, at the time all Witches created their books with black covers. None of them were "working the dark side of the craft" or whatever, in fact, many of them (or at least the ones **I** talked to) found a "dark side" distasteful, and anyone who WAS a part of something "dark" were looked down on (NOTE: I know better now), mostly because they were into it for showmanship, rather than anything practical.
Anyway. I see this post and think to myself in a sarcastic manner...congrats buddy. You're making a "black book of shadows". I have maybe half a dozen black books of shadows. I also have brown ones, multi colored ones, and ones with prints, and they all have the same info. It's not that compelling that you make a "black book of shadows" because you work the "dark side of the craft". I work what many would consider to be a "dark side" when needed, but 1) I don't flaunt that information as though it were a banner...I do it primarily for protection and 2) I don't store it strictly in a "black" book. Look around my blog and you will see my other books.
This dude seriously needs to grow up. I'll assume this person is probably 13, saw some new fad tv show featuring a spell book and thought "hmm...I wanna do that because my life isn't that interesting".
It makes me feel sorry for all of us who truly embrace this craft and try to make it in this world in a serious manner, and have to deal with children like these. It's no damned wonder no one takes us seriously.
Thursday, June 5, 2014
Ma'iingan's (mini) Mashup
1) Recommending Books: Herbalism and Witchcraft Practices
I think recommending books for further research is a great thing. Everyone, especially novices need good resources to pursue paths in Paganism, however what constitutes "good" resources?
I think if you look at the material, and it seems to be trying too hard to come off as occult or even fluffy, it might not be that good a resource. I see many people recommending "Scott Cunningham" for Witchcraft related practices. It's ok to read Cunningham (I have several of his books), however I'm leery of some stereotypical occult books. If anything, people should look at "Culpeper's Herbal Reference" first. It's a well respected resource used by a great number of seasoned veterans in the Pagan area, even though I don't think it's actually Pagan in nature. Most of the information used in practice can be found online as well, though again, leery about it's accuracy.
But really...do we NEED to have a long list of what plant is good for what magical application? I would challenge people to look at a plant and determine for themselves, without looking at a book or webpage, what that plant might be good for (and that might be a good idea to maybe do a weekly or daily post to accept my own challenge here). Witches or Folk Healers of the past never had books or references to determine what plant was good for what...they went with what they had experience with and what worked for whatever application they tried it for. They relied on their intuition and "feeling" with regards to certain plants and determined for themselves what they thought this plant might be good for. A simple example could be the Rose...one look at it and what does one's intuition say about it? Good for love, friendship, hope, peace, etc. The thorns could be good for protecting ones self or their loved ones. That's just from looking at the flower, not looking it up in a book. The same could be said for the lilac. It could be used for beauty, boosting self-image and esteem, dispelling depression (because of it's intoxicatingly beautiful smell).
Again, I challenge people to go outside, find a plant, study it at length and determine for yourself what that plant could be good for WITHOUT the use of books or other reference (but I caution, if you're unsure about a plant, do NOT touch it!! Just look at it).
2) Coming Out
I may have touched on this before, but I want to come back to it. When people consider "coming out" as a Pagan to family and friends, my biggest question is...WHY? Why is it so important for your friends and family to know? And when I ask this question, I ask it to those who are grown, and out on their own. For the most part, it can create an unnecessary rift in the family, particularly because Paganism is STILL so misunderstood, and misrepresented in the media and by the religious, that it scares people. While we as adult practitioners have taken the time to clear the misunderstandings and misrepresentations for ourselves, it's EXTREMELY difficult to so easily clear it for others, especially those who don't want clarification or have had to endure decades of ingrained "propaganda" from others and from religious institutions. Consider how long it took YOU to understand that Pagan systems aren't the "devil worshipping, animal sacrificing" things they're made out to be. Why expect that your friends and family are going to understand and accept it so quickly and so easily, when it may have taken you years to feel comfortable with practice yourself. Don't be so surprised when mom and dad or your best friend coil in fear when you tell them you are a Pagan. Remember that to undo years of spoon-fed misconception, it's going to take a number of years to show them you are not a part of the Pagan system that has so inaccurately been portrayed, and that the system you ARE a part of is no more frightening than the systems they are used to (i.e. Christianity).
But back to the why question, though...since when is it completely necessary to make other people aware of what it is you believe? Christians (some of them, and I'm not trying to put anyone down here), feel it's necessary to let everyone know what it is they believe, only because their God said to "go out and spread the good news", and have misinterpreted it to say that they need to tell others that they need to follow Christianity in order to inherit the "Kingdom of God". There are perhaps just as many misconceptions about Christianity as there are about Paganism, however, Pagans get the brunt of the strike when it comes to the misconceptions because of how scary it's made out to be. I can understand people wanting to expose the TRUE nature of their Pagan beliefs and what it REALLY entails, but really...why is it so important? A person's beliefs should be sacred, and personal, not flaunted around and put on display as a conversation piece. While it's ok to wear jewellery symbolizing your faith, you don't need to tell mom and dad, or your best friend "Hey Look, I'm a Pagan". Your beliefs and personal practices are yours, and telling them really has no bearing on how you practice or what you believe...if anything telling them, and if they are resistant, can be a hindrance, making you have second thoughts as to whether or not your beliefs are right or whether you should continue. Don't let others determine what you believe.
I think recommending books for further research is a great thing. Everyone, especially novices need good resources to pursue paths in Paganism, however what constitutes "good" resources?
I think if you look at the material, and it seems to be trying too hard to come off as occult or even fluffy, it might not be that good a resource. I see many people recommending "Scott Cunningham" for Witchcraft related practices. It's ok to read Cunningham (I have several of his books), however I'm leery of some stereotypical occult books. If anything, people should look at "Culpeper's Herbal Reference" first. It's a well respected resource used by a great number of seasoned veterans in the Pagan area, even though I don't think it's actually Pagan in nature. Most of the information used in practice can be found online as well, though again, leery about it's accuracy.
But really...do we NEED to have a long list of what plant is good for what magical application? I would challenge people to look at a plant and determine for themselves, without looking at a book or webpage, what that plant might be good for (and that might be a good idea to maybe do a weekly or daily post to accept my own challenge here). Witches or Folk Healers of the past never had books or references to determine what plant was good for what...they went with what they had experience with and what worked for whatever application they tried it for. They relied on their intuition and "feeling" with regards to certain plants and determined for themselves what they thought this plant might be good for. A simple example could be the Rose...one look at it and what does one's intuition say about it? Good for love, friendship, hope, peace, etc. The thorns could be good for protecting ones self or their loved ones. That's just from looking at the flower, not looking it up in a book. The same could be said for the lilac. It could be used for beauty, boosting self-image and esteem, dispelling depression (because of it's intoxicatingly beautiful smell).
Again, I challenge people to go outside, find a plant, study it at length and determine for yourself what that plant could be good for WITHOUT the use of books or other reference (but I caution, if you're unsure about a plant, do NOT touch it!! Just look at it).
2) Coming Out
I may have touched on this before, but I want to come back to it. When people consider "coming out" as a Pagan to family and friends, my biggest question is...WHY? Why is it so important for your friends and family to know? And when I ask this question, I ask it to those who are grown, and out on their own. For the most part, it can create an unnecessary rift in the family, particularly because Paganism is STILL so misunderstood, and misrepresented in the media and by the religious, that it scares people. While we as adult practitioners have taken the time to clear the misunderstandings and misrepresentations for ourselves, it's EXTREMELY difficult to so easily clear it for others, especially those who don't want clarification or have had to endure decades of ingrained "propaganda" from others and from religious institutions. Consider how long it took YOU to understand that Pagan systems aren't the "devil worshipping, animal sacrificing" things they're made out to be. Why expect that your friends and family are going to understand and accept it so quickly and so easily, when it may have taken you years to feel comfortable with practice yourself. Don't be so surprised when mom and dad or your best friend coil in fear when you tell them you are a Pagan. Remember that to undo years of spoon-fed misconception, it's going to take a number of years to show them you are not a part of the Pagan system that has so inaccurately been portrayed, and that the system you ARE a part of is no more frightening than the systems they are used to (i.e. Christianity).
But back to the why question, though...since when is it completely necessary to make other people aware of what it is you believe? Christians (some of them, and I'm not trying to put anyone down here), feel it's necessary to let everyone know what it is they believe, only because their God said to "go out and spread the good news", and have misinterpreted it to say that they need to tell others that they need to follow Christianity in order to inherit the "Kingdom of God". There are perhaps just as many misconceptions about Christianity as there are about Paganism, however, Pagans get the brunt of the strike when it comes to the misconceptions because of how scary it's made out to be. I can understand people wanting to expose the TRUE nature of their Pagan beliefs and what it REALLY entails, but really...why is it so important? A person's beliefs should be sacred, and personal, not flaunted around and put on display as a conversation piece. While it's ok to wear jewellery symbolizing your faith, you don't need to tell mom and dad, or your best friend "Hey Look, I'm a Pagan". Your beliefs and personal practices are yours, and telling them really has no bearing on how you practice or what you believe...if anything telling them, and if they are resistant, can be a hindrance, making you have second thoughts as to whether or not your beliefs are right or whether you should continue. Don't let others determine what you believe.
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Ma'iingan's Mashup
Sorry it's been so long since I've posted...looking after a baby takes up a LOT of my time. Just to update, we're both doing really well. My son is 2 months old and growing like a weed. He's cute as a button and love him to bits.
Anyways, on to my Mashup post...
1) I've been Referenced!!!
Ooh, I feel so giddy, I've been referenced in a Yahoo! Answers answer!! lol.
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20130617193945AAwR7dR
It's one thing to have someone actually discuss me in an answer (which has happened a few times, good AND bad), it's something completely different when someone ELSE links directly to something I've written in the hopes of helping someone else, kind of like I do with Wicca for the Rest of Us.
It just feels like I'm now taken seriously. I'm hoping this brings more people to my blog with much more input and (polite) conversation
2) Herbalism Classes Online
--I've seen a lot of herbal online classes pop up now and then, and it makes me leery. I have a hard time trusting a lot of information I read. Now that I've taken an accredited course on herbal health, it makes me squirm a bit when I see unlicenced, partially uneducated people dishing out advice, recommendations and lessons on herbal use. It almost frightens me.
My biggest suggestion to those who are taking FREE classes on herbs and oil use is to take it all with a HUGE grain of salt and research everything you learn before taking it as some sort of truth. My course involved reading a lot of books that cited sources including scientific double-blind studies and confirmed what each discusses. When taking a course, be sure you look up what you've read to confirm or deny what you're being taught...
...and for the love of...PLEASE do NOT ingest ANY herbs until you are 100% sure about them. Even in small doses some herbs can be quite poisonous, even such as Belladonna (I know that there are many people who recommend small doses of belladonna for various treatments, but it's quite poisonous, please be careful). Alternately, large quantities of culinary herbs can be just as harmful, it doesn't matter if they're sold for food purposes, their intent is to be used in very small portions.
3) "We're Killing the Planet!!!"
--I think when people say this, they're really giving humans far too much credit. I agree that pollution, and over development are damaging the planet, but I hardly think we as a species are capable of actually destroying the planet completely.
I mean think about it, do we really think so little of nature that she needs our help? Does she need the help of horses, dolphins and lions too? To believe we as a species can actually kill a planet I think is a bit much. Sure we're doing considerable damage, but nature is far stronger than we believe. Nature will allow what it will allow until a breaking point...then she'll make a shift, which could perhaps involve extinction and dramatic climate shifting. Once this shift subsides all will be well again for those who survive, albeit with a scar here or there.
4) A Year and a Day Study Format
--There seem to be a lot of people who seem to misunderstand the reason behind the "year and a day" study format.
The entire point of studying for a year and a day is so that you 1) understand the reasons behind the acts you do in a ritualistic setting 2) understand the reasons behind your beliefs 3) understand the history and 4) realize why you are Wiccan.
The year and a day is not meant to be the only time you do any study and then you are a certified Wiccan. To be an actual Wiccan means a lifetime of study, the year and a day helps you to solidify your need or desire to become a Wiccan. Typically people who are not serious about Wicca will fizzle out after a few days of study, realizing that it's far too much work (far more than they even thought) to become a part of a religion.
4) "Why not have both?" A Thread Discussing the Differences Between Wicca and Christianity
--Why not have your cake and eat it too, seeing as it's somehow possible? Digressing already.
I came across a post in regards to incorporating Wicca and Christianity, but it's not the combination that I have a problem with, it's one of the responses.
This young man proceeds to prove the incompatibility of Wicca and Christianity by quoting 9 passages from the bible...however NONE of them have ANYTHING to do with Wicca.
For example: Leviticus 18:22 and 1 Corinthians 9 discuss homosexuality. While a person's individual sexual orientation and preferences are not shunned, and are indeed accepted within the religion of Wicca, they are not exclusive to the religion, therefore making quotes in regards to homosexuality when discussing whether or not Wicca and Christiantiy may be combined successfully makes no sense. The point is moot.
Peter 2:18 talks about slaves. Slavery is not condoned by any other religion that I know of. And it has absolutely no place in Wicca period, so again, a moot point.
Leviticus 19:31 and Exodus 22:18 discuss Wizards and Witches...they're not Wiccan.
The point I'm trying to make is that the arguer/poster is trying to exemplify the incompatibility of Wicca and Christianity by quoting passages that have nothing to do with Wicca, yet discusses in length acts of homosexuality, slavery, sorcery/Witchcraft, idol worship and spirit mediumship. None of these things have ANYTHING to do with Wicca. More appropriate quotes to argue the incompatibility of Wicca and Christianity should have to do with religious differences, not homosexuality and Witchcraft.
I can point out many more legitimate reasons why Wicca and Christianity are incompatible and NONE of them have anything to do with a persons sexual preferences and personal practices, for instance:
-The Christian God states "I am a vengeful and jealous God" "Thou shalt have no other Gods before me"
-Christianity thrives on the need for salvation and the need for a saviour in order to enter God's Kingdom...Wicca has no such need.
-Christianity hold a "my-way-or-the-highway" mentality, that you must be with us or against us...Wiccans could care less who believes and who doesn't.
-Christianity holds onto the belief that anyone who doesn't believe in their way, is automatically admitted to their place of eternal damnation
Plain and simply, Wicca and Christianity are simply TOO INCOMPATIBLE to be successfully followed together. Anyone claiming to be both has serious misunderstandings about both religions and what it entails in order to be both.
Anyways, on to my Mashup post...
1) I've been Referenced!!!
Ooh, I feel so giddy, I've been referenced in a Yahoo! Answers answer!! lol.
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20130617193945AAwR7dR
It's one thing to have someone actually discuss me in an answer (which has happened a few times, good AND bad), it's something completely different when someone ELSE links directly to something I've written in the hopes of helping someone else, kind of like I do with Wicca for the Rest of Us.
It just feels like I'm now taken seriously. I'm hoping this brings more people to my blog with much more input and (polite) conversation
2) Herbalism Classes Online
--I've seen a lot of herbal online classes pop up now and then, and it makes me leery. I have a hard time trusting a lot of information I read. Now that I've taken an accredited course on herbal health, it makes me squirm a bit when I see unlicenced, partially uneducated people dishing out advice, recommendations and lessons on herbal use. It almost frightens me.
My biggest suggestion to those who are taking FREE classes on herbs and oil use is to take it all with a HUGE grain of salt and research everything you learn before taking it as some sort of truth. My course involved reading a lot of books that cited sources including scientific double-blind studies and confirmed what each discusses. When taking a course, be sure you look up what you've read to confirm or deny what you're being taught...
...and for the love of...PLEASE do NOT ingest ANY herbs until you are 100% sure about them. Even in small doses some herbs can be quite poisonous, even such as Belladonna (I know that there are many people who recommend small doses of belladonna for various treatments, but it's quite poisonous, please be careful). Alternately, large quantities of culinary herbs can be just as harmful, it doesn't matter if they're sold for food purposes, their intent is to be used in very small portions.
3) "We're Killing the Planet!!!"
--I think when people say this, they're really giving humans far too much credit. I agree that pollution, and over development are damaging the planet, but I hardly think we as a species are capable of actually destroying the planet completely.
I mean think about it, do we really think so little of nature that she needs our help? Does she need the help of horses, dolphins and lions too? To believe we as a species can actually kill a planet I think is a bit much. Sure we're doing considerable damage, but nature is far stronger than we believe. Nature will allow what it will allow until a breaking point...then she'll make a shift, which could perhaps involve extinction and dramatic climate shifting. Once this shift subsides all will be well again for those who survive, albeit with a scar here or there.
4) A Year and a Day Study Format
--There seem to be a lot of people who seem to misunderstand the reason behind the "year and a day" study format.
The entire point of studying for a year and a day is so that you 1) understand the reasons behind the acts you do in a ritualistic setting 2) understand the reasons behind your beliefs 3) understand the history and 4) realize why you are Wiccan.
The year and a day is not meant to be the only time you do any study and then you are a certified Wiccan. To be an actual Wiccan means a lifetime of study, the year and a day helps you to solidify your need or desire to become a Wiccan. Typically people who are not serious about Wicca will fizzle out after a few days of study, realizing that it's far too much work (far more than they even thought) to become a part of a religion.
4) "Why not have both?" A Thread Discussing the Differences Between Wicca and Christianity
--Why not have your cake and eat it too, seeing as it's somehow possible? Digressing already.
I came across a post in regards to incorporating Wicca and Christianity, but it's not the combination that I have a problem with, it's one of the responses.
This young man proceeds to prove the incompatibility of Wicca and Christianity by quoting 9 passages from the bible...however NONE of them have ANYTHING to do with Wicca.
For example: Leviticus 18:22 and 1 Corinthians 9 discuss homosexuality. While a person's individual sexual orientation and preferences are not shunned, and are indeed accepted within the religion of Wicca, they are not exclusive to the religion, therefore making quotes in regards to homosexuality when discussing whether or not Wicca and Christiantiy may be combined successfully makes no sense. The point is moot.
Peter 2:18 talks about slaves. Slavery is not condoned by any other religion that I know of. And it has absolutely no place in Wicca period, so again, a moot point.
Leviticus 19:31 and Exodus 22:18 discuss Wizards and Witches...they're not Wiccan.
The point I'm trying to make is that the arguer/poster is trying to exemplify the incompatibility of Wicca and Christianity by quoting passages that have nothing to do with Wicca, yet discusses in length acts of homosexuality, slavery, sorcery/Witchcraft, idol worship and spirit mediumship. None of these things have ANYTHING to do with Wicca. More appropriate quotes to argue the incompatibility of Wicca and Christianity should have to do with religious differences, not homosexuality and Witchcraft.
I can point out many more legitimate reasons why Wicca and Christianity are incompatible and NONE of them have anything to do with a persons sexual preferences and personal practices, for instance:
-The Christian God states "I am a vengeful and jealous God" "Thou shalt have no other Gods before me"
-Christianity thrives on the need for salvation and the need for a saviour in order to enter God's Kingdom...Wicca has no such need.
-Christianity hold a "my-way-or-the-highway" mentality, that you must be with us or against us...Wiccans could care less who believes and who doesn't.
-Christianity holds onto the belief that anyone who doesn't believe in their way, is automatically admitted to their place of eternal damnation
Plain and simply, Wicca and Christianity are simply TOO INCOMPATIBLE to be successfully followed together. Anyone claiming to be both has serious misunderstandings about both religions and what it entails in order to be both.
Monday, June 17, 2013
Inquiry: What is a "Mashup"??
I love doing my "Ma'iingan's Mashup's". but what are they really?
Well, in short, a "Ma'iingan's Mashup" is a post with three or more topics in one.
There are times when I have thoughts that I want to write about, but really, they only take up a few lines. When this happens, a Mashup is born. I will wait until I have at least 3 smaller blogs before I post a Mashup, so that means a Mashup might sit in my draft file for a few days to a few weeks before being posted. And to me, that's fine. Usually I will go back now and then and add a few lines to what I've written or add another topic to the Mashup.
In the most recent case, I wanted to write about "Touchy Touchy" for a while, but really only had a couple lines to a short blurb about it. So I waited until I had a few more topics before posting. It's happened with all of my Mashup's.
How did I come up with "Mashup"?
I came up with the idea of "Mashup" from listening to my Sirius radio. There's a broadcast in the morning on one of the stations called "The Morning Mashup" (but I haven't listened to it in a long time). Before I moved I used to listen to it almost every day, and it ran until about noon. It gave me the inspiration to call a post I once called "52 Topics About Nothing" a "Mashup". Since "52 Topics..." was much too long, and I liked the catchy-ness of how they announced "The Morning Mashup", I began "Ma'iingan's Mashup".
I love inspiration. It's like the lightbulb going off above my head when they happen.
If you have a blog, and have a topic that doesn't take up a lot of space...don't fret about wasting a post over three lines, create a version of "Maship" yourself, and give it a catchy title. :)
Well, in short, a "Ma'iingan's Mashup" is a post with three or more topics in one.
There are times when I have thoughts that I want to write about, but really, they only take up a few lines. When this happens, a Mashup is born. I will wait until I have at least 3 smaller blogs before I post a Mashup, so that means a Mashup might sit in my draft file for a few days to a few weeks before being posted. And to me, that's fine. Usually I will go back now and then and add a few lines to what I've written or add another topic to the Mashup.
In the most recent case, I wanted to write about "Touchy Touchy" for a while, but really only had a couple lines to a short blurb about it. So I waited until I had a few more topics before posting. It's happened with all of my Mashup's.
How did I come up with "Mashup"?
I came up with the idea of "Mashup" from listening to my Sirius radio. There's a broadcast in the morning on one of the stations called "The Morning Mashup" (but I haven't listened to it in a long time). Before I moved I used to listen to it almost every day, and it ran until about noon. It gave me the inspiration to call a post I once called "52 Topics About Nothing" a "Mashup". Since "52 Topics..." was much too long, and I liked the catchy-ness of how they announced "The Morning Mashup", I began "Ma'iingan's Mashup".
I love inspiration. It's like the lightbulb going off above my head when they happen.
If you have a blog, and have a topic that doesn't take up a lot of space...don't fret about wasting a post over three lines, create a version of "Maship" yourself, and give it a catchy title. :)
Ma'iingan's Mashup
Woo-Hoo, another "Maiingan's Mashup"!!!
1) Touchy, Touchy
It's interesting how defensive people get when they ask a question in a forum. When they don't get the answers they're looking for, they go off on a tangent defending and eve O-ffending the contributors of the forum. What do they want? Yes men and women?
Someone asks a question and receives an answer that clarifies the misconception or misinformation that is stated in the original question. The poster then gets upset. Are they really there to learn or to have whatever belief they have confirmed. I place my bet on the latter.
If you're going to go into a forum, write out a lengthy paragraph, and then the misinformation that might be in that post gets corrected, don't get into a hissy fit and start being belligerent. Perhaps re-read the corrected information and realize that they're not trying to make you look like an idiot who knows absolutely nothing, they're trying to help you to get a proper understanding of what you're talking about, perhaps from experience.
I know I don't get all defensive when I've been corrected...just look at my last post...there's a bit of misinformation that I must re-learn about the Goddess Hecate. I didn't go to the author of the post of whom I linked to in the previous post and say "No, all of what you've said is wrong, because I believe it differently!!!". No, I linked to his blog post and found it rather informative and refreshing.
So instead of being overly sensitive about what's been corrected in whatever it is you've written, take the correction under advisement, perhaps to read later.
2) Do What Thou Wilt Be the Whole of the Law...
Is it really necessary for people to post this as though it were a tag-line? I've seen many people in MANY forums and Q&A's rhyme this line off (as well as Love is the Law, Love under Will). Honestly, what's the point? You don't see Wiccans rhyming off "An ye harm none, do as thou will" at the beginning or end of every post they make, or Asatru's rhyming off the nine noble virtues. It's all fine and well for you to have an ethic, it's well and good for you to be proud of that ethic, but really, you don't have to rhyme it off every time you make a post somewhere. I'm so tired of seeing this everywhere. I DON"T think Crowley (or whoever originally created the lines) intended it to be used in such a way
3) How To Handle "God Bless You"
Really? Someone has to ask "how do you handle someone saying "God Bless You" when you sneeze...or even just in passing? As a Pagan, how are people so threatened by a simply phrase? It's almost like those who complain about people who use "Blessed Be" as a greeting or parting phrase.
How do I handle "God Bless You"? I say "Thank you". I'm secure enough in my beliefs and faith that nothing can deter it from me, not even a Christian "God Bless You". I think those who have to ask this question live under a semi-persecution complex. It's not a subtle attempt at conversion you know, it's a simple blessing. Really, how do you feel when someone passes you and you say blessed be and they throw a hissy fit over what you've said? You didn't mean any malice behind the phrase, you were offering a simple greeting, or even a minor blessing (as Christians are with their "Bless You"). Turn tables before you go off on a tangent about Christian greetings or offering-phrases. If you have to get upset by it, perhaps you are not as secure in your faith and beliefs as you once thought you were.
1) Touchy, Touchy
It's interesting how defensive people get when they ask a question in a forum. When they don't get the answers they're looking for, they go off on a tangent defending and eve O-ffending the contributors of the forum. What do they want? Yes men and women?
Someone asks a question and receives an answer that clarifies the misconception or misinformation that is stated in the original question. The poster then gets upset. Are they really there to learn or to have whatever belief they have confirmed. I place my bet on the latter.
If you're going to go into a forum, write out a lengthy paragraph, and then the misinformation that might be in that post gets corrected, don't get into a hissy fit and start being belligerent. Perhaps re-read the corrected information and realize that they're not trying to make you look like an idiot who knows absolutely nothing, they're trying to help you to get a proper understanding of what you're talking about, perhaps from experience.
I know I don't get all defensive when I've been corrected...just look at my last post...there's a bit of misinformation that I must re-learn about the Goddess Hecate. I didn't go to the author of the post of whom I linked to in the previous post and say "No, all of what you've said is wrong, because I believe it differently!!!". No, I linked to his blog post and found it rather informative and refreshing.
So instead of being overly sensitive about what's been corrected in whatever it is you've written, take the correction under advisement, perhaps to read later.
2) Do What Thou Wilt Be the Whole of the Law...
Is it really necessary for people to post this as though it were a tag-line? I've seen many people in MANY forums and Q&A's rhyme this line off (as well as Love is the Law, Love under Will). Honestly, what's the point? You don't see Wiccans rhyming off "An ye harm none, do as thou will" at the beginning or end of every post they make, or Asatru's rhyming off the nine noble virtues. It's all fine and well for you to have an ethic, it's well and good for you to be proud of that ethic, but really, you don't have to rhyme it off every time you make a post somewhere. I'm so tired of seeing this everywhere. I DON"T think Crowley (or whoever originally created the lines) intended it to be used in such a way
3) How To Handle "God Bless You"
Really? Someone has to ask "how do you handle someone saying "God Bless You" when you sneeze...or even just in passing? As a Pagan, how are people so threatened by a simply phrase? It's almost like those who complain about people who use "Blessed Be" as a greeting or parting phrase.
How do I handle "God Bless You"? I say "Thank you". I'm secure enough in my beliefs and faith that nothing can deter it from me, not even a Christian "God Bless You". I think those who have to ask this question live under a semi-persecution complex. It's not a subtle attempt at conversion you know, it's a simple blessing. Really, how do you feel when someone passes you and you say blessed be and they throw a hissy fit over what you've said? You didn't mean any malice behind the phrase, you were offering a simple greeting, or even a minor blessing (as Christians are with their "Bless You"). Turn tables before you go off on a tangent about Christian greetings or offering-phrases. If you have to get upset by it, perhaps you are not as secure in your faith and beliefs as you once thought you were.
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Ma'iingan's Mashup
It's time for another edition of "Maiingan's Mashup"!!!
1) What advice would you give your novice self?
--This is an excellent question. I think I would tell myself the same thing I would tell any novice I encounter now.
*Don't get caught up in buying "things" (I was bad for this, now I have a pile of stuff I never use)
*TRUST yourself
*There's really no wrong way of doing things, everything is a learning experience
*Research the books you buy before hand
*Determine if what you *think* you're interested in is what you're REALLY interested in.
*Take everything you read with a grain of salt (be skeptical until confirmation)
*TAKE YOUR TIME!!! Don't be in a rush to do everything (a problem I find I have, even now).
I think at some point in everyone's path, they should go back and reflect on their novice self.
2) Definition: Witchcraft
In all honesty, I don't understand how some people can get so confused over the word "Witchcraft"...at least in the more modern sense.
I see people repeat over and over again how Witchcraft MUST have some sort of connection with religion, particularly Pagan religions (i.e. Wicca). How...why is it so difficult for people to accept Witchcraft as simply being a practice.
I like to equate Witchcraft with many, MANY other practices out there to try to get people to understand the "act" nature of the craft, as opposed to any religious connotations. For example, I often use a familiar religion such as Christianity and equate it with a common practice (and something you would see associated with Christianity anyways, considering Jesus was one for a brief period of his life) Carpentry.
I don't understand how people can say that Witchcraft is a religion. To use my example above, that would be like saying Carpentry is Christianity. Christians can be Carpenters, but not all Carpenters are Christian. Wiccans (and well, any Pagans in general) CAN be Witches, but not all Witches are Wiccan (or even Pagan for that matter). Those Witches who identify as BEING Pagan, are so because they incorporate some sort of Pagan elements into their Witch crafts. It's by no means necessary to have Pagan beliefs and be a Witch. You can be an atheist and purely logical if you like, and STILL be a Witch (I know that most of the time my logical mind takes over, and if it doesn't make sense, I don't do it, yet I still practice Witchcraft for the fact that not everything in life has a logical explanation).
Witchcraft is a practice. The very word describes act, rather than religion. WitchCRAFT. It's ok to hold religious beliefs and practice, but please don't assume Witchcraft equates religious belief.
3) Working While Ill
When you're sick, should you work your craft? That really depends on the person. If you are a novice, or someone who is fresh to the craft, I will say no. Being sick takes a lot of energy from your system, for the fact that your body is using all it can access to fight off whatever infection or bacteria that has invaded your body. Working any kind of magical craft can deplete your energy further, and then what are you left with? Aches, pains, headache, exhaustion, for hours to perhaps days. When you are new to the craft, it's difficult to judge how much energy you are going to use when using magic. It's better to wait until you are well again, before trying any sort of magical craft. It's a "better safe, than sorry" system.
If you are more experienced, it could depend on what you do. It's not really a good idea to work while you're sick to begin with, however many people successfully carry out whatever work they intend to do while sick, only because they have experience, and know how to properly prepare themselves before hand.
When you are sick, the best thing to do is to not worry about whatever tasks it is you think you need to accomplish, they CAN wait. Focus on healing yourself first. This can be done in combination with mundane medical assistance, such as over the counter medications (i.e. advil/tylenol, gravol, etc), herbal remedies (teas, tinctures, herbal supplements, etc), cleansing baths, and plenty of rest.
If it is absolutely imperative that you do some sort of work, take breaks when you need to, don't over do anything, drink plenty of fluids, and get plenty of rest...and by all means cleanse/ground and center afterwards.
1) What advice would you give your novice self?
--This is an excellent question. I think I would tell myself the same thing I would tell any novice I encounter now.
*Don't get caught up in buying "things" (I was bad for this, now I have a pile of stuff I never use)
*TRUST yourself
*There's really no wrong way of doing things, everything is a learning experience
*Research the books you buy before hand
*Determine if what you *think* you're interested in is what you're REALLY interested in.
*Take everything you read with a grain of salt (be skeptical until confirmation)
*TAKE YOUR TIME!!! Don't be in a rush to do everything (a problem I find I have, even now).
I think at some point in everyone's path, they should go back and reflect on their novice self.
2) Definition: Witchcraft
In all honesty, I don't understand how some people can get so confused over the word "Witchcraft"...at least in the more modern sense.
I see people repeat over and over again how Witchcraft MUST have some sort of connection with religion, particularly Pagan religions (i.e. Wicca). How...why is it so difficult for people to accept Witchcraft as simply being a practice.
I like to equate Witchcraft with many, MANY other practices out there to try to get people to understand the "act" nature of the craft, as opposed to any religious connotations. For example, I often use a familiar religion such as Christianity and equate it with a common practice (and something you would see associated with Christianity anyways, considering Jesus was one for a brief period of his life) Carpentry.
I don't understand how people can say that Witchcraft is a religion. To use my example above, that would be like saying Carpentry is Christianity. Christians can be Carpenters, but not all Carpenters are Christian. Wiccans (and well, any Pagans in general) CAN be Witches, but not all Witches are Wiccan (or even Pagan for that matter). Those Witches who identify as BEING Pagan, are so because they incorporate some sort of Pagan elements into their Witch crafts. It's by no means necessary to have Pagan beliefs and be a Witch. You can be an atheist and purely logical if you like, and STILL be a Witch (I know that most of the time my logical mind takes over, and if it doesn't make sense, I don't do it, yet I still practice Witchcraft for the fact that not everything in life has a logical explanation).
Witchcraft is a practice. The very word describes act, rather than religion. WitchCRAFT. It's ok to hold religious beliefs and practice, but please don't assume Witchcraft equates religious belief.
3) Working While Ill
When you're sick, should you work your craft? That really depends on the person. If you are a novice, or someone who is fresh to the craft, I will say no. Being sick takes a lot of energy from your system, for the fact that your body is using all it can access to fight off whatever infection or bacteria that has invaded your body. Working any kind of magical craft can deplete your energy further, and then what are you left with? Aches, pains, headache, exhaustion, for hours to perhaps days. When you are new to the craft, it's difficult to judge how much energy you are going to use when using magic. It's better to wait until you are well again, before trying any sort of magical craft. It's a "better safe, than sorry" system.
If you are more experienced, it could depend on what you do. It's not really a good idea to work while you're sick to begin with, however many people successfully carry out whatever work they intend to do while sick, only because they have experience, and know how to properly prepare themselves before hand.
When you are sick, the best thing to do is to not worry about whatever tasks it is you think you need to accomplish, they CAN wait. Focus on healing yourself first. This can be done in combination with mundane medical assistance, such as over the counter medications (i.e. advil/tylenol, gravol, etc), herbal remedies (teas, tinctures, herbal supplements, etc), cleansing baths, and plenty of rest.
If it is absolutely imperative that you do some sort of work, take breaks when you need to, don't over do anything, drink plenty of fluids, and get plenty of rest...and by all means cleanse/ground and center afterwards.
Monday, January 28, 2013
Ma'iingan's Mashup
Pagan Events at Religious Venues
I don't think I can ever understand how some people think. There are more venues out there in the country than Church basements and Knights of Columbus halls.
I've seen a few blogs and forum posts complaining that venues with religious backgrounds denied them access to their hall for use in Pagan events (i.e. Pagan Pride, Tarot events, Study, etc). Do these people only know of these religious venues or are they just looking to cause trouble.
How can some people be so blind to the logic that a CHRISTIAN or CATHOLIC organization is going to deny them use of their facility for PAGAN based events? It's almost like going in already knowing they're going to be denied just for the pure fact that they can complain about it. It's a Fricken Christian Organization!!
There are other venue sites like Legions/VFW's (though many owners/members of such places may be highly religious so you may have to be careful with these), Hotels, Reception Hall's, etc. Why can't you go there? It's completely redundant to ask a Christian church if you can use their basement to hold circles or coven gatherings. Of course they're going to deny usage.
Reality TV and Witches
It seems to be a rather popular subject in the last few days...would you participate in a reality tv show that portrayed Witches, Wiccans or other Pagans?
In all honesty, I'd say no. Reality tv is not actually reality. Take "The Real Housewives" series. Do people REALLY think that's what housewives are and do? If people want to know what REAL housewives do, please, come to my home and observe a REAL housewife.
But I digress. Reality tv is just a medium to make more money, seeing as so many other genres have been used up to the point of boredom. If anyone were to make any sort of reality show about Pagans and Witches, chances are it'll be just as grandized and flamboyant as any other reality show out there, showing nothing of the true reality of what Witches and Pagans do. If anything, the producers of such a show would embellish the show, at the expense of truth and fact.
When a Witch casts a circle or even a spell and nothing grandiose appears, you better believe they'll add special effects or make them do something that has nothing to do with anything based in "reality". They'll play up every act to make it more interesting to the audience. And that's what they want...an audience.
They'll also make it so political, with cat-fights and the like...because we all know, the public love cat fights, and backstabbing. So, real (note sarcasm).
Film Freakouts!
I'm so sick and tired of "Witches" and particularly Wiccans getting their panties in a bunch over this new "Hansel and Gretel" movie. I think it's absolutely ridiculous to get so pissed over FICTION. Witches in fiction have ALWAYS been evil. How many people protested over "The Mist" regarding the over-the-top Christian lady "Ms. Carmody"? Did she accurately portray Christians? Hell no! What about the portrayal of "Ned Flanders" on the Simpsons...is he an accurate portrayal of all Christians? NO! So why are people getting so bent out of shape over this movie?
Personally I think it's the persecution complex coming out in "Witches" again (and I use the term loosely here). I as a Witch of about 12 years now, have no problems with this movie. In a non-biased, totally neutral stance, I think it looks rather cheesy, but my husband wants to see it (only cuz there's violence, and probably because of the scantily-clad, but bad-assed looking Gretel...but there's a man for you lol).
Why do I have to be offended by this movie? I know it's fiction. I can tell the difference between what's fake and what isn't? Why can't anyone else?
In all honesty, it's probably all those McWiccans, and Fluffy Witches out there who are the majority of the offended. Those who are getting upset for the sake of getting upset; just to cause a rise and gain (negative) attention to Witches. I'm almost POSITIVE there's going to be at LEAST one news story about this, and the "Boycott" that's going to be done by "Witches" out there...and again, it's not going to be legit Witches out there who are doing the boycotting...but those who want attention.
It makes me sick. I never saw anyone get all upset over Nicolas Cage's "Season of the Witch" (and I saw it...wasn't bad either) In fact, I saw lots of people speak positively about the movie...yet it was about Nicolas Cage's character, a Christian knight who had to arrest a "Witch" and bring her to justice at the church (or castle...I forget which). Or what about the movie "Black Death" about the Black Plague? There was a Witch in there and she was portrayed as evil.
What makes me sick is the picking and choosing of which movies to get offended by. If you're going to be offended by a movie that portrays Witches in a negative light, then boycott ALL Witch movies...because they ALL inaccurately portray Witches. Bewitched, The Craft, Wizard of Oz, Practical Magic, The Witches, Season of the Witch, Hansel and Gretel, Snow White, The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe, Sleeping Beauty...ALL of them. If you're going to hate one movie and like another...then you, my dear, are a hypocrite!
Ma’iingan
I don't think I can ever understand how some people think. There are more venues out there in the country than Church basements and Knights of Columbus halls.
I've seen a few blogs and forum posts complaining that venues with religious backgrounds denied them access to their hall for use in Pagan events (i.e. Pagan Pride, Tarot events, Study, etc). Do these people only know of these religious venues or are they just looking to cause trouble.
How can some people be so blind to the logic that a CHRISTIAN or CATHOLIC organization is going to deny them use of their facility for PAGAN based events? It's almost like going in already knowing they're going to be denied just for the pure fact that they can complain about it. It's a Fricken Christian Organization!!
There are other venue sites like Legions/VFW's (though many owners/members of such places may be highly religious so you may have to be careful with these), Hotels, Reception Hall's, etc. Why can't you go there? It's completely redundant to ask a Christian church if you can use their basement to hold circles or coven gatherings. Of course they're going to deny usage.
Reality TV and Witches
It seems to be a rather popular subject in the last few days...would you participate in a reality tv show that portrayed Witches, Wiccans or other Pagans?
In all honesty, I'd say no. Reality tv is not actually reality. Take "The Real Housewives" series. Do people REALLY think that's what housewives are and do? If people want to know what REAL housewives do, please, come to my home and observe a REAL housewife.
But I digress. Reality tv is just a medium to make more money, seeing as so many other genres have been used up to the point of boredom. If anyone were to make any sort of reality show about Pagans and Witches, chances are it'll be just as grandized and flamboyant as any other reality show out there, showing nothing of the true reality of what Witches and Pagans do. If anything, the producers of such a show would embellish the show, at the expense of truth and fact.
When a Witch casts a circle or even a spell and nothing grandiose appears, you better believe they'll add special effects or make them do something that has nothing to do with anything based in "reality". They'll play up every act to make it more interesting to the audience. And that's what they want...an audience.
They'll also make it so political, with cat-fights and the like...because we all know, the public love cat fights, and backstabbing. So, real (note sarcasm).
Film Freakouts!
I'm so sick and tired of "Witches" and particularly Wiccans getting their panties in a bunch over this new "Hansel and Gretel" movie. I think it's absolutely ridiculous to get so pissed over FICTION. Witches in fiction have ALWAYS been evil. How many people protested over "The Mist" regarding the over-the-top Christian lady "Ms. Carmody"? Did she accurately portray Christians? Hell no! What about the portrayal of "Ned Flanders" on the Simpsons...is he an accurate portrayal of all Christians? NO! So why are people getting so bent out of shape over this movie?
Personally I think it's the persecution complex coming out in "Witches" again (and I use the term loosely here). I as a Witch of about 12 years now, have no problems with this movie. In a non-biased, totally neutral stance, I think it looks rather cheesy, but my husband wants to see it (only cuz there's violence, and probably because of the scantily-clad, but bad-assed looking Gretel...but there's a man for you lol).
Why do I have to be offended by this movie? I know it's fiction. I can tell the difference between what's fake and what isn't? Why can't anyone else?
In all honesty, it's probably all those McWiccans, and Fluffy Witches out there who are the majority of the offended. Those who are getting upset for the sake of getting upset; just to cause a rise and gain (negative) attention to Witches. I'm almost POSITIVE there's going to be at LEAST one news story about this, and the "Boycott" that's going to be done by "Witches" out there...and again, it's not going to be legit Witches out there who are doing the boycotting...but those who want attention.
It makes me sick. I never saw anyone get all upset over Nicolas Cage's "Season of the Witch" (and I saw it...wasn't bad either) In fact, I saw lots of people speak positively about the movie...yet it was about Nicolas Cage's character, a Christian knight who had to arrest a "Witch" and bring her to justice at the church (or castle...I forget which). Or what about the movie "Black Death" about the Black Plague? There was a Witch in there and she was portrayed as evil.
What makes me sick is the picking and choosing of which movies to get offended by. If you're going to be offended by a movie that portrays Witches in a negative light, then boycott ALL Witch movies...because they ALL inaccurately portray Witches. Bewitched, The Craft, Wizard of Oz, Practical Magic, The Witches, Season of the Witch, Hansel and Gretel, Snow White, The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe, Sleeping Beauty...ALL of them. If you're going to hate one movie and like another...then you, my dear, are a hypocrite!
Ma’iingan
Monday, August 13, 2012
Ma'iingan's Mashup
Ah HA...time for another episode of "Ma'iingan's Mashup"
The Wiccan Rede and Hypocrisy
I read an interesting blog on the Wiccan rede, and it got me thinking.
There are a lot of so-called "Wiccans" out there who like to remind everyone of "An it harm none, do as thou will" and "remember the threefold law" and such, and are always on about being kind to others, respecting people for their beliefs and whatnot.
But then they turn around and bitch and moan about how Christians are all evil to them, stole all the Pagan holidays and other such crap.
How is belittling Christians whom you may not agree with adhering to their Rede, which says to participate in as many harmLESS things as you wish (which includes words)?
Words can hurt a person just as sharply as a razor. So could someone please explain how one can LOGICALLY follow the Wiccan rede and use harmless words, yet still bash and put down people of other religions? This doesn't make sense to me.
Yeah, there are a lot of "Christians" I don't like for their misguided attitudes towards those who happen to believe otherwise to themselves, but I base them on an individual basis, not because they're Christian as a whole. To target a person because they're a part of a particular religion, then blame it ON that religion is as misguided and ignorant as those people who target Pagans as being all Satanists and baby sacrificers. Let's not be like those who hold our beliefs against us, and take things one individual at a time.
Bible-Pushers and Debate
I read a blog in which a young person, while in a coffee shop, sat quietly reading a Scott Cunningham book, when she was approached by someone who proceeded to attempt to introduce her to a book that would "open her to a world of salvation" (in other words, the Bible). The "Cunningham" reader then proceeded to try to tell this person the "history" of the bible, its compilation and the erroneous belief that it could possibly go through CENTURIES of translation and reprint without a single error. Of course this person took offense. I mean why wouldn't she? (note sarcasm).
What I don't understand is why people bother in the first place to try to explain anything to a closed minded person who starts off a conversation with "I can introduce you to a book that will open you to a world of salvation". Why bother? It's a waste of breath. Personally I would have told this individual, "I'm not interested in religious solicitation. I prefer to read books that interest me, not ones sold to me by random strangers who don't understand the book themselves. Good day and leave me to enjoy my coffee in peace". Why is that so hard?
Closed minded individuals who service only to peddle their "holy book" for heavily profits don't want to listen to your side...all they want to hear is "oh yes, I'll read your book, and follow your religion without question. Blindly show me the way".
My advice to people who are approached by bible-pushers: JUST SAY NO! and be done with it.
Ma’iingan
The Wiccan Rede and Hypocrisy
I read an interesting blog on the Wiccan rede, and it got me thinking.
There are a lot of so-called "Wiccans" out there who like to remind everyone of "An it harm none, do as thou will" and "remember the threefold law" and such, and are always on about being kind to others, respecting people for their beliefs and whatnot.
But then they turn around and bitch and moan about how Christians are all evil to them, stole all the Pagan holidays and other such crap.
How is belittling Christians whom you may not agree with adhering to their Rede, which says to participate in as many harmLESS things as you wish (which includes words)?
Words can hurt a person just as sharply as a razor. So could someone please explain how one can LOGICALLY follow the Wiccan rede and use harmless words, yet still bash and put down people of other religions? This doesn't make sense to me.
Yeah, there are a lot of "Christians" I don't like for their misguided attitudes towards those who happen to believe otherwise to themselves, but I base them on an individual basis, not because they're Christian as a whole. To target a person because they're a part of a particular religion, then blame it ON that religion is as misguided and ignorant as those people who target Pagans as being all Satanists and baby sacrificers. Let's not be like those who hold our beliefs against us, and take things one individual at a time.
Bible-Pushers and Debate
I read a blog in which a young person, while in a coffee shop, sat quietly reading a Scott Cunningham book, when she was approached by someone who proceeded to attempt to introduce her to a book that would "open her to a world of salvation" (in other words, the Bible). The "Cunningham" reader then proceeded to try to tell this person the "history" of the bible, its compilation and the erroneous belief that it could possibly go through CENTURIES of translation and reprint without a single error. Of course this person took offense. I mean why wouldn't she? (note sarcasm).
What I don't understand is why people bother in the first place to try to explain anything to a closed minded person who starts off a conversation with "I can introduce you to a book that will open you to a world of salvation". Why bother? It's a waste of breath. Personally I would have told this individual, "I'm not interested in religious solicitation. I prefer to read books that interest me, not ones sold to me by random strangers who don't understand the book themselves. Good day and leave me to enjoy my coffee in peace". Why is that so hard?
Closed minded individuals who service only to peddle their "holy book" for heavily profits don't want to listen to your side...all they want to hear is "oh yes, I'll read your book, and follow your religion without question. Blindly show me the way".
My advice to people who are approached by bible-pushers: JUST SAY NO! and be done with it.
Ma’iingan
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
♪ Mini...MINI...Mini Ma'iingan's Mashup ♫
1) "The Big Bang Theory"
I've noticed something. I watch "The Big Bang Theory"...I think it's really funny, and my favorite band (who are also Canadian, like me) plays the theme.
Now, has anyone noticed the religious diversity of the five friends on that show? Raj Koothrappali is Hindu; Howard Wolowitz is Jewish; Sheldon Cooper comes from a Christian home, Leonard Hofstadter, I assume is atheist (I assume this because his parents are so scientifically driven, that their "logical, rational" mind can't see the logic behind the belief in a deity), and Penny is somewhat "New Aged" (again, I assume because of her interest in Astrology, and psychics (and how come she doesn't have a last name???).
Now, you see how well they all get along, despite being religiously different? Is this just another product of hollywood fiction, in which people of different belief systems can get along so well? How is it that people in the REAL world can't seem to get along so well without letting religion get the better of them? I mean, look at that guy in...France, I think it was, who, in the name of Al Qada (sp?) shot the rabbi and his kids. Religious intolerance is rampant all over the world. It's sad that the only place we can see religious tolerance is on a fictional tv show, especially one so scientifically based.
2) Irresponsibility
Are there REALLY people out there who don't have common sense?? Parusing YouTube, I noticed one young Wiccan who not only had one thing go wrong with her tools (that could have been prevented)...but TWO (at least that I saw).
The first, her altar. She was devastated that it has been drenched by rain, seeing as she had left it outside on a balcony. If her altar is THAT important (and it should be), it shouldn't have been left somewhere where it would be damaged by the elements (unless you make it so that it can withstand outside weather). To treat your altar in such a way, I feel is disrespectful. Your altar is a place to honor your God and Goddess (and to do any sort of work that may need to be done as well). To leave it in a place where the items may become ruined (in this case by the rain), is irresponsible.
A second thing to go wrong was allowing water to penetrate her Book of Shadows. Personally I probably would have been more devastated if my book was full of written material than empty, but...she was extremely upset at having water spilled onto the book, thus ruining the cardboard in which it was made (something I frown up on using, depending on the type of cardboard), and causing the end pages to bleed onto subsequent book pages.
Honestly, I think the corners look rather cool, thanks to the bleeding of the end pages...looks like a fancy corner embellishment, but I guess she doesn't like it.
Again, this is irresponsibility on her part. She should have stored her book where water wouldn't have spilled on it. There's no excuse why you can't put your book some place safe. Perhaps I should take some time and offer suggestions in relation to tragedies such as this
To prevent damaging your book of shadows, I offer storage solutions
-A dresser drawer. Place it under your clothes if you like
-A box in your closet. Grocery stores ALWAYS have boxes they want to get rid of. If your local grocery store doesn't offer their boxes to customers for use in carrying their groceries home (like mine do), ask if you can have a medium sized box for personal use. Once placing your book in your box, place the box someplace off the floor (if you live or reside in a basement or someplace prone to water leaks)
-Plastic bins come rather cheap depending on the size you want or need. A bin the size of a 9x12 book, can probably range from $5.00-$10.00, depending also on the store (I can get a good sized plastic bin at my local dollar store for about $2.00).
As for your altar, it really shouldn't be rocket science to understand that you do NOT leave items that can become damaged outdoors. It's ok to have an altar outdoors, so long as you place weather tolerant materials on it. If it's a personal altar, you do NOT leave it on your balcony. It doesn't matter if the weather man didn't say it was going to rain...the weather man is NOT nature, and nature will rain whenever she dang well pleases...and without warning. One must prepare for all sorts of possibilites when it comes to nature, and our crafting tools. Leaving them unattended, in places that can cause damage, is IRRESPONSIBLE!!!
Ma’iingan
I've noticed something. I watch "The Big Bang Theory"...I think it's really funny, and my favorite band (who are also Canadian, like me) plays the theme.
Now, has anyone noticed the religious diversity of the five friends on that show? Raj Koothrappali is Hindu; Howard Wolowitz is Jewish; Sheldon Cooper comes from a Christian home, Leonard Hofstadter, I assume is atheist (I assume this because his parents are so scientifically driven, that their "logical, rational" mind can't see the logic behind the belief in a deity), and Penny is somewhat "New Aged" (again, I assume because of her interest in Astrology, and psychics (and how come she doesn't have a last name???).
Now, you see how well they all get along, despite being religiously different? Is this just another product of hollywood fiction, in which people of different belief systems can get along so well? How is it that people in the REAL world can't seem to get along so well without letting religion get the better of them? I mean, look at that guy in...France, I think it was, who, in the name of Al Qada (sp?) shot the rabbi and his kids. Religious intolerance is rampant all over the world. It's sad that the only place we can see religious tolerance is on a fictional tv show, especially one so scientifically based.
2) Irresponsibility
Are there REALLY people out there who don't have common sense?? Parusing YouTube, I noticed one young Wiccan who not only had one thing go wrong with her tools (that could have been prevented)...but TWO (at least that I saw).
The first, her altar. She was devastated that it has been drenched by rain, seeing as she had left it outside on a balcony. If her altar is THAT important (and it should be), it shouldn't have been left somewhere where it would be damaged by the elements (unless you make it so that it can withstand outside weather). To treat your altar in such a way, I feel is disrespectful. Your altar is a place to honor your God and Goddess (and to do any sort of work that may need to be done as well). To leave it in a place where the items may become ruined (in this case by the rain), is irresponsible.
A second thing to go wrong was allowing water to penetrate her Book of Shadows. Personally I probably would have been more devastated if my book was full of written material than empty, but...she was extremely upset at having water spilled onto the book, thus ruining the cardboard in which it was made (something I frown up on using, depending on the type of cardboard), and causing the end pages to bleed onto subsequent book pages.
Honestly, I think the corners look rather cool, thanks to the bleeding of the end pages...looks like a fancy corner embellishment, but I guess she doesn't like it.
Again, this is irresponsibility on her part. She should have stored her book where water wouldn't have spilled on it. There's no excuse why you can't put your book some place safe. Perhaps I should take some time and offer suggestions in relation to tragedies such as this
To prevent damaging your book of shadows, I offer storage solutions
-A dresser drawer. Place it under your clothes if you like
-A box in your closet. Grocery stores ALWAYS have boxes they want to get rid of. If your local grocery store doesn't offer their boxes to customers for use in carrying their groceries home (like mine do), ask if you can have a medium sized box for personal use. Once placing your book in your box, place the box someplace off the floor (if you live or reside in a basement or someplace prone to water leaks)
-Plastic bins come rather cheap depending on the size you want or need. A bin the size of a 9x12 book, can probably range from $5.00-$10.00, depending also on the store (I can get a good sized plastic bin at my local dollar store for about $2.00).
As for your altar, it really shouldn't be rocket science to understand that you do NOT leave items that can become damaged outdoors. It's ok to have an altar outdoors, so long as you place weather tolerant materials on it. If it's a personal altar, you do NOT leave it on your balcony. It doesn't matter if the weather man didn't say it was going to rain...the weather man is NOT nature, and nature will rain whenever she dang well pleases...and without warning. One must prepare for all sorts of possibilites when it comes to nature, and our crafting tools. Leaving them unattended, in places that can cause damage, is IRRESPONSIBLE!!!
Ma’iingan
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Mini-Mashup
It's been too long, therefore it's time for yet another Ma'iingan's Mashup:
1) A Sigh with a Smile
You know you're doing your job right when you get a following of trolls lol:
Example 1
Example 2
There were others, unfortunately (well, perhaps fortunately) they have since been deleted.
2) REPOST meanies!!!
I know probably most if not all of my readers are on facebook (and myspace or whatever other social media is out there). At least ONCE...you've encountered the ever dreaded "repost" posts.
There have been times when I have chosen to participate in the repost session of these things...but that's just because I chose to repost it, because the message meant something to me, not because someone told me to.
However, what royally pisses this Witch off are the messages put under about those who choose NOT to repost. 9 times out of 10 I am the type to not repost a message, and this is what ticks me off:
Sorry. But I have other things to do than spend ALL my time on facebook, reposting every bleeing-heart message on every ailment and issue that's out there. This does NOT make me selfish or "uncool". This shit makes me sick. Making people feel guilty does NOT fix the issue. Don't exploit children or the ill just to make others feel bad for not reposting your shit!
And it's not just about illnesses either. I'm sick of people saying "if I don't see you repost this message, this means you're not really my friend"...what is this? Grade 2? Again, just because I don't repost the same crap over and over to affirm my allegiance to something doesn't mean I'm not supportive! Don't put words in my mouth that I've never said!
3) Forum Bore-um
Has anyone else encountered this? There are perhaps hundreds and hundreds of forums out there, and perhaps half of them have ANY activity! I'm a member of at least 10 forums and out of those 10, maybe 2, maybe 3 are fairly regularly active.
I try to be an active member in all of the forums I am a member of, but it's rather difficult when I am the last person who responded to the latest posts...and that latest post was from Jan. 23.
I know how hard it is to run a forum (I was a manager for a forum, but it's pretty much run aground now and, sadly, I'm the only one who goes in there now). But the responsibility of maintaining activity in a forum does NOT just rest solely on the owners and managers of the site, but those who signed up to be members in the first place. What's the point on being a member of a forum if you're NOT going to participate??? (Personally, I think if I were running a forum again, anyone not maintaining activity for at least one month is removed from the site. Don't want to participate, don't be a member!)
I'd LOVE to see new and more information posted on forums...new discussions, new debates, interesting ideas, etc...but I'm not seeing it in more than 3/4 of the forums I'm a part of. I can't think of everything for every forum!
People, please! If you sign up to be part of a forum, do your part and continue conversations, and add input. That's the only way to keep forum's alive!!
Ma’iingan
1) A Sigh with a Smile
You know you're doing your job right when you get a following of trolls lol:
Example 1
Example 2
There were others, unfortunately (well, perhaps fortunately) they have since been deleted.
2) REPOST meanies!!!
I know probably most if not all of my readers are on facebook (and myspace or whatever other social media is out there). At least ONCE...you've encountered the ever dreaded "repost" posts.
There have been times when I have chosen to participate in the repost session of these things...but that's just because I chose to repost it, because the message meant something to me, not because someone told me to.
However, what royally pisses this Witch off are the messages put under about those who choose NOT to repost. 9 times out of 10 I am the type to not repost a message, and this is what ticks me off:
And it's not just about illnesses either. I'm sick of people saying "if I don't see you repost this message, this means you're not really my friend"...what is this? Grade 2? Again, just because I don't repost the same crap over and over to affirm my allegiance to something doesn't mean I'm not supportive! Don't put words in my mouth that I've never said!
3) Forum Bore-um
Has anyone else encountered this? There are perhaps hundreds and hundreds of forums out there, and perhaps half of them have ANY activity! I'm a member of at least 10 forums and out of those 10, maybe 2, maybe 3 are fairly regularly active.
I try to be an active member in all of the forums I am a member of, but it's rather difficult when I am the last person who responded to the latest posts...and that latest post was from Jan. 23.
I know how hard it is to run a forum (I was a manager for a forum, but it's pretty much run aground now and, sadly, I'm the only one who goes in there now). But the responsibility of maintaining activity in a forum does NOT just rest solely on the owners and managers of the site, but those who signed up to be members in the first place. What's the point on being a member of a forum if you're NOT going to participate??? (Personally, I think if I were running a forum again, anyone not maintaining activity for at least one month is removed from the site. Don't want to participate, don't be a member!)
I'd LOVE to see new and more information posted on forums...new discussions, new debates, interesting ideas, etc...but I'm not seeing it in more than 3/4 of the forums I'm a part of. I can't think of everything for every forum!
People, please! If you sign up to be part of a forum, do your part and continue conversations, and add input. That's the only way to keep forum's alive!!
Ma’iingan
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Ma'iingan's Mashup
The time has come again for yet another edition of Ma'iingan's Mashup
1) Traditional Witchcraft = Traditional Wicca...WHAT???
In yet another of my Q & A adventures, I encounter someone who must equate Traditional Witchcraft with Traditional Wicca. What's the difference one may ask?
Traditional Wicca includes religious elements including deity worship and other religious dogma, with elements of Witchcraft practices here and there.
Traditional Witchcraft has no religious elements. The inclusion of deities, spirits, ancestors, faeries, whatever has nothing to do with any religious relationships, and is purely based up on individual beliefs.
Just because someone practices a traditional branch of Wicca DOESN'T automatically make one a Traditional Witch. A Traditional Witch is a Witch who practices Witchcraft pre-Wicca; pre-Christianity.
2) "Grace was a normal happy teenager, until her mom/aunt/grandmother died..."
Why is it that so many teen shows and books relating to Witchcraft start EXACTLY like this? Every show/book I've read/seen starts in this same way (my sister-in-law loves these shows/books and tries to get me into them).
They always start the same way..."Grace was a normal, happy teenager, until her mom/aunt/grandmother died. She moved in with other family members and discovered she had mystical, magical powers". You know, I wouldn't have any troubles with "supernatural" tv shows if they didn't turn them into drippy, sappy, teenaged romantic, dramatic drivel. It drips so much with this crap it's staining the carpets under my tv. There is a broader audience out there who enjoy supernatural shows, who don't need this "mortal loves a vampire" crap.
I would LOVE a show where they have Witches practicing their craft and having adventures throughout...but I'll never get that if teenagers are the ones determining what tv shows should consist of. It'll always be this drivel crap.
1) Traditional Witchcraft = Traditional Wicca...WHAT???
In yet another of my Q & A adventures, I encounter someone who must equate Traditional Witchcraft with Traditional Wicca. What's the difference one may ask?
Traditional Wicca includes religious elements including deity worship and other religious dogma, with elements of Witchcraft practices here and there.
Traditional Witchcraft has no religious elements. The inclusion of deities, spirits, ancestors, faeries, whatever has nothing to do with any religious relationships, and is purely based up on individual beliefs.
Just because someone practices a traditional branch of Wicca DOESN'T automatically make one a Traditional Witch. A Traditional Witch is a Witch who practices Witchcraft pre-Wicca; pre-Christianity.
2) "Grace was a normal happy teenager, until her mom/aunt/grandmother died..."
Why is it that so many teen shows and books relating to Witchcraft start EXACTLY like this? Every show/book I've read/seen starts in this same way (my sister-in-law loves these shows/books and tries to get me into them).
They always start the same way..."Grace was a normal, happy teenager, until her mom/aunt/grandmother died. She moved in with other family members and discovered she had mystical, magical powers". You know, I wouldn't have any troubles with "supernatural" tv shows if they didn't turn them into drippy, sappy, teenaged romantic, dramatic drivel. It drips so much with this crap it's staining the carpets under my tv. There is a broader audience out there who enjoy supernatural shows, who don't need this "mortal loves a vampire" crap.
I would LOVE a show where they have Witches practicing their craft and having adventures throughout...but I'll never get that if teenagers are the ones determining what tv shows should consist of. It'll always be this drivel crap.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)