Mage: the Ascension, Patterns, Quintessence, Energies & Thoughtforms.

About.

I am styling myself as a Virtual Adept, a computer-oriented Magician from storytelling game 'Mage: the Ascension'.

It's a part of art style i am creating, an art style that i've named: 'Art of Magick & Light'.


Part of that chore (style creation) is translating M:tA's silly game mechanics into real magick-related lore & terms.

The style, 'Art of Magick & Light', uses real world's witchcraft/magick lore & wisdom afterall.


Patterns & Quintessence.

In 'Mage: the Ascension' one can perceive doing spellwork as creating/modifying/destroying patterns and directing the Quintessence, magickal energy.

Quintessence is manipulated by the Sphere of Prime.

Patterns are manipulated by Spheres of Forces, Life & Matter.

When pattern(s) are fueled with quintesence, the magick is focused into realm of spirit (Astral Plane), then earth - real world - changes over time, becomes a more or less precise copy of the spirit realm as it is at the current moment, at given location. In Mage: the Ascension game such changes can occur very quickly.

Thoughtforms & Energies.

In traditional magical parlance, what you focus on and project energy into is called a 'thought form.'

Smudge Stick & Altar Tools Purification/Consecration/Charging.

Chat Transcript.

Here's transcript from Discord Chat (Server: 'The Witches Hearth').

(Attentus is my nickname).

'Attentus: hey, i have troubles in translating/understanding words: 'sage smudgestick'. does it mean 'sage incense stick'? thanks for answer(s). 🙂

cantankerous whisp of a goose: SMUDGING is reserved for natives. So if it’s called a smudge stick it’s just buzz words trying to make money in shady ways (or uneducated ways). Smoke cleansing is open so you can have sage incense for sure but even then it’s best to source it from ethical places or places you know the money will be going to native peoples

Attentus: i am just trying to understand purification/consecration/charging rite for wand/athame/chalice & pentacle. smudgestick word was used in description of procedure that does it, in a book: 'Witch Crafting' by Phyllis Curott. 🙂

666.000.888.: Smudging and Smoke Cleansing are used interchangeably very frequently. Yes sage smoke can be considered incense like Cantan said smudging is a different ritual though

Attentus: thanks! 🙂'


Procedure.

For Athamé, Chalice, Wand & Pentacle Purification/Consecration/Charging I'll use 'procedure' described in the book: 'Witch Crafting' by Phyllis Curott. It is allowed to use any meditation in the 'Grounding and Centering' part, so i'll use a Simple form of Buddhist Meditation on Breath, (imagining and counting (from 1 to 10 and again ...) breaths as they enter, remain in, and leave one's body, practiced in a half-lotus position, this time.) :)



Why Mediation on Breath?

For two reasons:

1. It's simple and versatile practice.
2. When I've roleplayed a Sorcerer named: 'Attentus', I've used to play him meditating on breath in Zazen position. Not sure whether he imagined or only counted breaths though. Now I am styling myself to be like him to some degree, both in internal and external way. It's a part of Art Style i am creating, named: 'Art of Magick & Light'.


If I remember correctly, I've got this meditation practice (Meditation on Breath) from the book: 'The Three Pillars of Zen' by Roshi Kapleau, and this was before I took refuge in Buddha, Sangha, Dharma & Lama Ole Nydahl. Refuge is initiation into Buddhism, after taking refuge one becomes officially a Buddhist.


I am mostly a Karma Kagyu buddhist (In Lama Ole Nydahl's buddhist community), but i've visited Zen Buddhist Center as well. (ZBZ Bodhidharma in Falenica near Warsaw/Poland).


Timing.

I should Purify, Consecrate & Charge the Altar Tools (Athamé, Chalice, Wand & Pentacle) on next New Moon (about 30 December 2024). Or perhaps just after the new year (1 January 2025).


Tools.

For Athamé, Chalice, Wand & Pentacle Purifying/Consecration/Charging I've bought:
- White Sage Smudge Stick Bundle 10cm,
- Smudge Stick Holder Bowl.

Other neccessary tools I already have, no need to buy more.

Black Wooden Wand.

My new wand.

Long wand (30 cm) with simple design. No unnecessary decorations or symbols.

Hand carved from solid, french walnut wood. Covered with bees wax and linseed oil. Black coloured (colours on image above altered by lighting; for original image on Etsy.com: click here).

In Buddhism, and sometimes in Witchcraft, Black is color of Protection.

--
I'll need to consecrate this Wand as well.

I was advised in Phyllis Curott's facebook Wicca/Witchcraft group to use method described in 'Witch Crafting' book by Phyllis Curott, in the 'Potions and Notions' chapter.

Silver/Amethyst Athamé.

My new Athamé (Magickal Knife for directing energies).

It's blade is 9 cm long, and whole Athamé is 17.5 cm long.

-=- Silver Athamé with Amethysts. -=-

-=- (Colours on image altered by lighting; for original images on Etsy.com: click here) -=-


My roleplaying character, sorcerer named: 'Attentus', used similar one, he had silver Athamé at his left hip.

This Athamé knife (as on image above) is made of silver alloy with amethysts, and violet/purple was colour used by Wethrillina Aeliath, Attentus's witch-lover.

/ In witchcraft, the colour of purple symbolizes: Power, Color of Royalty and Spiritual Authority, also associated with sexual pleasure. /


Attentus, on the other hand used Black and Silver - the colours of the Buddhist Protector's. Attentus was wearing Black Magician's robe with a touch of Silver embroidery, and had silver Athamé at his left hip. He was snobbish gentleman too.

He meditated for spells in the zazen position (Sitting on heels, as is practiced both in Martial Arts and in Zen Buddhism as well).

/ It is curious that in Buddhism, Black & Silver are on a cover of the booklet: 'Summoning Protector. Black Coat.' But with help of Wethrillina, Attentus's choice of colours was Black & Silver before I knew that buddhist protector Mahakala uses these colours too. The Protector summoned is known as: 'Mahakala', translated as: 'Great Black'. I think that 'Mahakala' can be perceived as either: 'Protecting Energy', 'Buddhist Protector', or/and: 'Wrathful Deity'. /



--
So, my new Athamé knife is like Attentus's Athamé, but with a nice magickal, feminine aspect added to it. :)

/ It is long, so it is mostly a masculine tool. It has purple/violet, round amethysts so it has feminine aspect as well. I think it unifies masculine energies with feminine energies, and can be used to direct these in an act of spellcasting. Union of masculine and feminine energies is more than energies of a man and of a woman taken separately. /

-=- Attentus. -=-

-=- Mahakala Invocation booklet -=- -=- ... in a polish language version. -=-

I am styling myself as Attentus, want to look like him... it's a part of style in Arts that i am creating, style named: 'Art of Magick & Light'.

Art of Magick & Light is a style that uses symbolics, wisdom and lore of the Wicca/Witchcraft.

During one of Attentus/Wethrillina conversations, Attentus admitted that he craves power to protect Wethrillina, his love.

I also want to use my Athamé (and other tools) to protect a Buddhist woman I love, as well as our friends, teachers and gurus, as long as I have permission to do it.


--
One curiosity about Athamé is that it is never meant to draw blood. If it does, it loses it's magickal properties forever. And it works like it never had such powers before. So spells cast using it in past, cease working.

... but what about using Athamé to cast offensive spell without piercing skin or drawing blood in the direct contact?


--
I'll need to consecrate this Athamé knife as well.

I was advised in Phyllis Curott's facebook Wicca/Witchcraft group to use method described in 'Witch Crafting' book by Phyllis Curott, in the 'Potions and Notions' chapter.

Lindsey Stirling - Shadows.

Lindsey Stirling - Shadows.

... usually i don't like violin plays, but Lindsey Stirling is great!

Daughter of Ether & Nanotech.

In Mage: the Ascension there's tradition faction called: 'Sons of Ether'.

Over a decade ago i've met in the internet a friend, a woman from France.

She's a Beautiful Artist & Scientist, she knows Physics & Chemistry, she's a witch, a hard-working woman and Daugther of Ether / pl: 'Córa Eteru' / with a lot of Nephandi allies (Nephandi are Magicians who use Black Magick). She's not worst at computer programming as well - at least by my high, Virtual Adept's standards.

With her, and some help in the field of Biology (Molecular Biology mostly), the Power of Nanotechnology is within our reach - as the Physics, Chemistry & Biology are keys to Nanotech.


If we have the Power of Nanotechnology, my Computer Sciences knowledge & Experience can be used to control Nanomachines - as computers can control machines. This would be the distributed application / pl: 'aplikacja rozproszona' / - software that spans over many machines that collaborate, work together for a common goal.

(Perhaps Advanced Mathematics, Microscopy, Electronics & Mechatronics can be useful as well).


I've had insights (thoughts appearing in my mind) that this can be arranged, and perhaps even a fully-fledged Nanotechnologist (Buddhist Nanotechnologist) will join us if/when we have support of Physics, Chemistry & Biology.

I've had insights that my friend Martha (from Poland) can find and handle a biologist for us as well.

Necronomicon, Horror on the Orient Express & Deals with Technocracy.

There's roleplaying game titled: 'Call of Cthulhu'.

Some players play spiritually, I think... to build supernatural powers for the team and game master/storyteller ... and to coordinate themselves.

There's adventure called: 'Horror on the Orient Express'.

Why to play this adventure campaign?

For example to have more control over the supernatural hazards on the pilgrimage/trade routes to Tibet via the Orient. Both Far East and Middle East are Orient as well.


Since a while i had insights (thoughts appearing in mind) that something has to be done about some players, as they went way too far in that...


I've planned to use Mage: the Ascension for this, but then a friend from my past contacted me in my mind.

Her name is Martha, and she studied Necronomicon since youth. She's dangerous occultist i think, but this time she sided with me, for now at least.

(In Buddhism, friends - by definition - help each other to develop, both spiritually and in more mundane ways).


I think that someone who researched Necronomicon has power over Cthulhu Art & Games, as the Cthulhu Mythos has roots in Necronomicon.


It seems - for now at least - that 'Horror on the Orient Express' is no longer a threat.

At least for as long as Martha is on our side.
--

I was thinking about myself, and I think that I am a Computer-Oriented Magician, styled as a 'Virtual Adept'.

(Word 'Oriented' is intended, to emphasize my affiliation with Tibetan Buddhism).


... I hope that Technocracy won't be such a big issue for me, and for my friends. I can involve myself in Apple's and Google's technologies and solutions, perhaps someday make deals with Apple and Google, perhaps with Microsoft and/or more as well.

What's the difference between Virtual Adepts and Technocracy?

Virtual Adepts teach and help, while Technocracy protects their secrets to rule and to swim in riches.

But i think that Technocracy has it's good side too - even if it's rare and often fake.

Proofs of Telepathy & Art of Colors.

Am I a telepath?

Recently, a while ago, I had something that looks like a proof that I am.

I thought about Art, about Visual Mood and Tension building and voice in my mind categorized it as 'Intensity Toning'. I never heard these words together before. Then voice explained that it's more generalized, more abstract and complete lesson in Art that encompasses and refines ideas of 'Visual Mood and Tension building'. More professional words too.

I rarely have proofs of telepathy, but sometimes I do. Then after a while psychological ego-rationalization kicks in and makes me doubt again.

The proofs of telepathy give me hope, make me want to live and not suicide, for I often speak in mind with a buddhist woman I love. Less of loneliness. Or I only think so.

--
Quoting Google:
1. 'Intensity, also called chroma or saturation, refers to the brightness of a color. A color is at full intensity when not mixed with black or white - a pure hue. You can change the intensity of a color, making it duller or more neutral by adding gray to the color'.
2. 'Tone in art simply refers to how light or dark a colour is. Each colour has an almost infinite number of tones. For example, think of the almost infinite variety between baby blue and midnight blue. Tone is now a central point in colour theory and an essential tool for all artists.'

I think the difference is:
1. Intensity is brightness or dullness, amount of grayness mixed in colour,
2. Tone is brightness or darkness, influencing mood and emotions.

--
P.S. As of recent, I am interrested Art-wise, in:
1. Intensity Toning & Colour Theory,
2. Fascination with Blackness,
3. Play of Light and Shadows.

When Blackness fascinates?

For example we can have a photo with Black, Magickal Athamé Knife. If the Knife protects it fascinates. If the Knife harms more than protects, one wants to puke instead,


Perhaps these lessons will arrive in form of thoughts appearing in my mind, perhaps I will buy books ... or both.

--
Update of 07.08.2024:

I've bought two books about Color Theory:

'Art of Colors' / PL: 'Sztuka Barwy' / by Johannes Itten is more theoretical, textual. But it contains black and white sketches and colorful images as well. This book is used by Fine Arts Academy in Warsaw, Poland.

'Color & Light' by James Gurney is a text with a lot of images, like album. Some text included, but images serve as best examples of the ideas presented in text. This book was recommended for me by a member of internet discord group: 'Art Lounge', that I am a part of.

Awakening the Witch Within, 7th Step.

I've taken the 7th step to win the Wisdom and to Awaken the Witch Within.

Using the Phyllis Curott's Witches' Wisdom TAROT Deck, I did 1-card read with this intention, the intention for the Deck to show me the way for Self-Development as a Buddhist/Wiccan Witch.


The card drawn was 'Balance'.

Meaning of the image seems to be about balance between wildness and freedom of nature and comforts of civilization. Does civilization truly bring safety? What about wars and car accidents?

But according to Phyllis Curott's guidebook for the TAROT deck, the meaning of the Card is as follows:

Balance.

1. WISDOM.

Within the magic woods, time shifts and the Pilgrim returns to her childhood. She enters the realms of Spirit and sees the world as it's meant to be. Her grandmother shows her how all things live in Balance. She points to Bear and Fox, to Rose-breasted Grosbeak and Squirrel, to mushrooms and elderberries, to passing clouds and warming Sun, tumbling stream and swimming Fish, all in perfect relationship. They teach the young Pilgrim right from wrong and how to be fair, to treat all with respect and reciprocity.

Her heart skips a beat as she remembers the future without her grandmother and wonders who teaches people then. "Mother Earth teaches all who pay attention," grandmother replies. "Remember the story I told you about the Godess Maat? She holds a single feather to weigh against your heart. Lightness of being is the gift of balance."

Mother Earth is always teaching you what all her children know - the life-sustaining Balance that all Creation shows. Live lightly on the land. Take no more than you need and give back with gratitude for all that you've received. If nothing is wasted, there's enough for everyone.

Receiving and replenishing, interchanging and exchanging, with gratitude and generosity, perfect Balance is maintained and lightness of being is attained. Joy is what it feels like.

2. ESSENCE.

Choices. Prosperity, generosity. Repriocity, equilibrium, harmony. Lightness of Spirit, joy. Energy flowing.

3. COUNSEL.

Finding Balance within yourself is a key to your sense of peace, happiness, and lightness of Spirit. It's time to consider the choices you're making about your life, your time, your energy.

Where do you need to pay more attention to achieve a healthy Balance in your life? How can you make changes and create more of what you need in order to be Balanced? What are your priorities? Are they making you happy? How can you Balance work with the rest of your life? Are your relationships reciprocal - do you receive as much as you give? Are you valued by those you value?

Reflect on how much you have to be grateful for, how much you're given by Mother Earth, and find ways to give back, to restore Balance, inside and out.

4. MAGIC.

Stand at the center of the circle of your life. Face the East, direction of Air. Do you think too much or not enough before you act? Are you still questioning and learning or worrying and doubting? Breathe in, quiet your mind, love yourself as you are, and thank the Plant People for giving you the breath of Life.

Face South, direction of Fire (Northern Hemisphere), and reach up to the Sun. Are you scared or determined in pursuit of your purpose? What gives you joy? Feel the rush of that energy. Give thanks.

Face West, direction of Water. Are you in touch with your feelings or are you supressing them? Are you loving yourself enough or giving too much of yourself away? Say "I love you" and hug yourself.

Face North and touch the Earth. Are you working too hard and not taking care of yourself? What needs healing? Thank your body and promise to take better care of yourself.

Return to the East and take a deep breath. Feel how present you are.

--

I've understood that to Awaken as a Buddhist Witch, that to awaken Wisdom within, I need to pay more attention to Nature, to pay attention to Animals and Plants.

I've understood that to Awaken as a Buddhist Witch, that to awaken Wisdom within, I need to take more care of my Body, to take more care of my Mind, that i need to make my lifestyle more Balanced and more aligned with the Nature.

Awakening the Witch Within, 6th Step, part 2nd.

I've asked Reindeer Seer to show me how I can change, to be able to help myself and the world.

Using the Phyllis Curott's Witches' Wisdom TAROT Deck, I did 1-card read with this intention, the intention to show me how i can change and help myself and the world.

The card drawn was '6 of Water'.

I've described this card earlier in this blog.
> [ Awakening the Witch Within, 5th Step ].

--

I've understood that i should go with the flow, where life takes me - to go with life's flow and to help nature, mother earth in process.

I've understood that sometimes life and one's reality change suddenly, and that one should adapt appropriately. This is both risk and opportunity.

I should focus on my priorities, rest is irrevelant.

Sometimes I'll need to accept harsh lessons and face my destiny boldly.

After going through harsh lessons, one becomes stronger and wiser, afterall.

Awakening the Witch Within, 6th Step, part 1st.

I've taken the 6th step to win the Wisdom and to Awaken the Witch Within.

Using the Phyllis Curott's Witches' Wisdom TAROT Deck, I did 1-card read with this intention, the intention for the Deck to show me the way for Self-Development as a Buddhist/Wiccan Witch.


The card drawn was 'Messenger of Earth'.

Meaning of the image seems to be about gifts and good karma coming here from distant, frozen land. Harsh weather, harsh condition but loving, warm hearts. Like Santa Claus who brings gifts from afar.

But according to Phyllis Curott's guidebook for the TAROT deck, the meaning of the Card is as follows:

Messenger of Earth.


1. WISDOM.

The Reindeer Seer, the Messenger of Earth, stands beside her beloved companion and guide. The world is snow-covered and painted with blue shadows cast by the distant Sun. The Seer is young to have gift of sight. But it's because she is young that she is able to see the future clearly. Civilization had not tied the blindfold of distraction and conformity over her eyes. Her gift is heavy burden, but she sees it's possible to shape the future. She will say what she sees. Will the world listen?

2. ESSENCE.

Foresight, weighty responsibility, incorruptibility, virtue. Possibility. Honesty. Truth.

3. COUNSEL.

Whether visions come through natural intuition or skillful divination, you can see the future. Don't be afraid that it can't be changed. Witches know that fate is what you make it. Not everything is within your control, but if you use your power to control yourself, the future will be yours to shape. Look within and see what you can change now in order to change what will be. Then look around and see the future is not just about you. The world needs her Witches.

4. MAGIC.

Do another reading and ask the Reindeer Seer to show you what you need to heal in yourself and in the world. Then begin. Commit to doing one small thing for yourself that is connected to doing something for Mother Earth. And follow through. When a Witch gives her word, she must keep it.

--

I've understood that to Awaken the Witch Within, i need to do sometimes things for myself and for the world.

I'll change myself in a way that will make me able to pursue something that will benefit both me and the world.

I'll change my fate and fate of the World, if only a little.

I'll need to do another reading, will try to do it as soon possible and post on this blog.
> [ Awakening the Witch Within, 6th Step, part 2nd ].

Sharing Thoughts.

Sometimes i think about telepathy.

Is it different from knowing someone well enough to know when someone is about to use a telephone to call us?
(telephone is the symbol of telepathy, symbol of communication at a distance).

I've read that Buddha Karmapa 17th Trinley Thaye Dorje said (i'll quote more or less precise words): 'Because none of us can read others' Minds, let's talk and get to know each other'.

Perhaps knowing someone well enough is the key to establishing a telepathic contact, to share thoughts.

In a facebook group about telepathy i read someone using similar words, that knowing someone helps to establish a telepathic contact.

I think that telepathy in it's purest form is communication in the form of sharing thoughts. Two or more thoughts/opinions clash and middle ground is found and resulting thoughts appear in involved minds. The more trained mind, the subtler mind, the mind with with lesser ego, has advantage when shaping the final thought to appear, his/her opinion matters more. Subtler minds, however, can feel some pain in the process.

I think that it's possible to protect oneself from pains associated with clashing thoughts/opinions (tested on myself with great success).
One can wish/cast/pray for a gift of such protection.
I think that some people might be protected from pains experienced during sharing thoughts without any extra efforts, perhaps because of karma from past lives. Perhaps they developed such protection in previous lives.

See also if You wish:
- How to Learn Telepathy.

Awakening the Witch Within, 5th Step.

I've taken the 5th step to win the Wisdom and to Awaken the Witch Within.

Using the Phyllis Curott's Witches' Wisdom TAROT Deck, I did 1-card read with this intention, the intention for the Deck to show me the way for Self-Development as a Buddhist/Wiccan Witch.


The card drawn was '6 of Water'.

Meaning of the image seems to be about going with the flow and hunting in the waters. Everything flows, everything changes.


But according to Phyllis Curott's guidebook for the TAROT deck, the meaning of the Card is as follows:

6 of Water,
- Diving Deep -

1. WISDOM.

A Cormorant plunges into a darting school of Fish. The Water, the seabrid's feather, the fishes' scales, bubbles of rising Air and unexpected light light all glisten, sparkle, and move. Water is the ever-changing flow of Life. Whole worlds live within it. The messages, the stories, the lives that it holds are always moving. Water itself is always moving, swirling and changing, dissolving and creating anew. Within it, the Life lives and dies and lives again - fish becoming bird, bird becoming prayer, prayer becoming manifestation, manifestation coming to life. The Waters of Life are always moving....

2. ESSENCE.

Dive deep. Let go, go with the flow. Unexpected change.

3. COUNSEL.

You cannot redirect the river of Life. Instead, plunge in, surrender to it, dissolve in it, allow the 'molecules' of your expectations, plans, and intentions to mix with the Waters flowing all around you. Let go and let your heart become a vessel of understanding. Let it hold the memories of your life, of all life. To remember, you must allow the Waters of Life to flow through you. Begin now--fill the Waters of your life with stories, before the Cormorant appears.

4. MAGIC: Self-Blessing.

Fill a clear bowl with warm Water (approximately 98^oF or 37^oC). Add three tablespoons of salt for the past, present, and future. Stir the Water until the salt dissolves. Bless yourself with the saltwater from which Life first came. Remember you too are a vessel.

--

I've understood that it's wise to 'go with the flow' of life, to not struggle too much against going where life takes one with it. One should remain true to one's priorities, rest is irrevelant.

Panta Rhei.
(Everything Flows).

I've understood that sometimes life and one's reality change suddenly, and that one should adapt if one wants to survive. Sometimes, however, mere survival is not worth living the life one's forced into. For example, i don't think it's worthwhile to live without True Love.

I've understood that life is full of the hunters and of the hunted. Sometimes Hunters Hunted too.

Awakening the Witch Within, 4th Step.

I've taken the 4th step to win the Wisdom and to Awaken the Witch Within.

Using the Phyllis Curott's Witches' Wisdom TAROT Deck, I did 1-card read with this intention, the intention for the Deck to show me the way for Self-Development as a Witch.


The card drawn was 'Guardian'.

Meaning of the image seems to be about oneness with nature, about protecting the Mother Earth from various threats. Humans are only a part of Life and Mother Earth, there are Plants and Animals too.


But according to Phyllis Curott's guidebook for the TAROT deck, the meaning of the Card is as follows:

Guardian.


1. WISDOM.

The Pilgrim's quest has stripped away fears and falsehoods. Unmade and made again by nurturing darkness and engendering light, he sees himself reflected and affirmed by the world that strengthens and sustains him. He is finding confidence and comfort far greater than wealth or privilege can provide. He has learned that there's always reason for hope. The world he lives in is sacred.

He strides forward on the path less traveled, hearing the song of Creation calling him to something greater than himself, calling him to serve. It's dawn. Mist is rising from the verdant greenwood, and because the Pilgrim is ready, the Guardian appears.

Chosen by the Godess Sovereignty, long ago he was called the King, a title and identity sought ever since by frauds who lust for power and treasure and fakers without wisdom or humility. It's an office destined to be held by he who serves the land and all its peoples. This is what makes him worthy: holding his purpose with integrity.

Compassion, inspiration, and example are how he wields his authority, but to defend the Life he serves, he can also wield a sword against those who are cruel, indifferent, and corrupt. His wisdom and motivation arise from the order of Creation. He is the faithful and passionate partner, embodied and divine, of the Godess, whom he has loved since the beginning of time. His every action serves Her creed: That all things make the world a better place for Life,

The Pilgrim stands before the Guardian and feels the strength and gentlesess that radiate from him in equal measure. A modest potion falls upon him like an honor to be carried: to till the fields and tend the animals, stand guard, and step forward. The Pilgrim is ready to be mentored and empowered by responsibility.

2. ESSENCE.

God. Confidence, self-respect, responsibility, integrity. Harmony, hope. Protect.

3. COUNSEL.

You're coming into a true sense of yourself and your ability to create the life you want. When you're fully present and act with integrity, you'll be increasingly freed from the limitations of ego, jealousy, and selfish ambition, whether yours or someone else's. You're discovering your self-worth and earning your own respect. You're ready to serve something greater than yourself, to stand up for your values, for others, and for the wellbeing of Creation. The Guardian reminds you to seek the mentorship of the older men in your life, especially those who have offered some part of their lives in service. They will remind you what thrue strength is and that there's always reason for hope.

4. MAGIC.

Go outside and pay attention to the trees. When you feel one calling to you, address it as the Guardian:

Guardian, the power of all things
that grow, teach me how to grow,
to be strong, to serve the Life that
is greater than my own.

Sit with your back against the tree's trunk. Feel the Earth below you, the Sun above, the power of Life making all things grow. Feel it moving through you. Feel yourself growing stronger, healthier, more joyful. Remember all good things you are creating in your life. Ask for guidance. Listen to what the Guardian has to teach you. Thank the Guardian, the tree, the grass beneath you, the Plant and Animal People around you. Mother Earth. Sense their acknowledgement. Leave an offering and act on the advice that Guardian has given you.

--

I've understood that to develop as a Buddhist/Wiccan Witch, I need to take the responsibility of protecting friends, lessons and the natural world. I need self-integrity and attitude of fighting against ego - both mine and of other beings.

Awakening the Witch Within, 3rd Step.

I've taken the 3rd step to win the Wisdom and to Awaken the Witch Within.

Using the Phyllis Curott's Witches' Wisdom TAROT Deck, I did 1-card read with this intention, the intention for the Deck to show me the way for Self-Development as a Witch.


The card drawn was 'Moon'.

Meaning of the image can be found when looking at the moon - either directly or in distorted water-reflection, when one lets his/her wild side surface, when one howls to the moon like wolves do. Modern humans hide their wild side, retreat from nature to the comforts and safety of civilization, but call of the wild still can be felt, longed for.

But according to Phyllis Curott's guidebook for the TAROT deck, the meaning of the Card is as follows:

Moon.

1. WISDOM.

There's a wildness within us that yearns to be physical, sensual, animal, free. But fear of this unknown part, of the shadows where it dwells, of where it might take us and who it might make us, has left us all only half alive.

We live in a human world of comfort and possessions, safe and secure but cut off from the natural world, from our body, from the magic of embodiment. It's the Moon that illuminates our ancient longing. When it appears in the night sky of our soul, it's a holy grail finally within reach, a cup of the wine of Life in which our dreams of wholeness float. It's the Moon that pulls us forward with it's rhythmic ebb and flow, a mystery that women's bodies know. Diana, Godess of Witches and all things wild, holds the mirror of her full and shining Moon for us to see our sacred selves, no longer hidden, doubted, or unconscious.

The Pilgrim goes to see her reflection. She enters the dark woods and Wolves appear. She slips into the deep Waters where Otters play. She even dares to brave the Dragon's Lair.

Wildness is the only path to the Moon. There's no need to dread the companions who will teach you how to shapeshift into hoof and horn, paw and claw, fur and feathers, fins and scales, bud and leaf and flower. Set your foot upon the silver path. The Moon will light your way from fear to the fierce and freeing desires of your wild and natural self.

2. ESSENCE.

Mystery. Wildness, physical instinct. Liberated feminine power.

3. COUNSEL.

When the Moon appears and the wild calls, what will you choose? The illusory safety of your city tower? The sanctuary of a Witch's cottage with its tiny light shining in the forest? You can't pretend that's wildness. Howl at the Moon. Race with Wolves, swim with Otters, fly with Owls. Look back into the far distance and see the light from your cottage window. Feel a pang of sorrow for all that you have to let go. Then turn to the Moon above and feel a shiver of delight as you hear the answering howl of your companions. Watch the Moon, follow it's rhythm in the sky, see how it pulls the tides below. Feel that pull within you, rising and subsiding. Feel the Moon in your body, in your heart, in your mind. When you choose to return to your cottage and community, you'll return changed - free, whole, and holy, blessed by the Moon.

4. MAGIC.

At the next full Moon, take a small round mirror and go to outside. Capture the Moon's reflection in the mirror. Now look at yourself in it. See the light in your eyes, even in the darkness. Tilt the mirror until you can again see the shining Moon. Look at yourself again. See yourself more clearly. See the light that shines within you, see the future that awaits you. Lift the mirror to the Moon and give thanks for the blessing She has given you.

--

I've understood that to develop as a Witch, I need to set my wild side free, to feel it, to let it arise within my mind, my body, my heart. I need to reconnect with nature as well.

The Witch Craze (also called: 'Burning Times') and Inquisition.

This is what i've read in 'Wicca Made Easy' book by Phyllis Curott:

In 1484, Pope Innocent VIII published a papal edict authorizing the use of torture to elict confessions of Witchcraft (which has yet to be rescinded).

Two years later, two german monks published a handbook called 'Malleus Maleficiarum', an anti-woman screed on how to fulfill the Pope's orders, and in 1542, Pope Paul III established the Holy Office of the Inquisition (which also continues to this day).

It is considered that the Witchcraze, or Burning Times started in the late 1300s and finally ended 500 years later in the early 1800s.

--
See also, if You wish:
> [ About witch-hunting and about the 'Burning Times' ],
> [ Inkubus Sukkubus - 'Burning Times' ].

Wicca Made Easy: Guided visualization: Storytelling.

'There are many shamanic techniques, called ecstatic practices, that enable you to gain access to the Other World; among them are dancing, drumming and journeying, fasting, ritual and working with sacred plants.

There's also the age-old magic of storytelling, now called guided visualization. The right stories told in the right way for the right reasons can take you into the realms of Spirit'.

--
I've positioned myself confortably, closed eyes and breathed deeply, relaxing.

I've felt my body relax as I exhaled, and felt my mind calm itself when I inhaled.

My hands over my heart, and I felt it's steady, slow rythm.


My breath reached outward and deeper inward, and I've felt it to connect inner and outer, outer and beyond, beyond and within.

I've felt my consciousness changing, shifting, opening into the radiant dimensions within and beyond my physical body. As I've continued breathing I've felt myself rising, free to move anywhere.

In front of me door appeared. Old, beautiful, wooden door with handle made of gold in the shape of a curving branch. I've gripped the handle and pulled, but doors were heavy. I've pulled it harder and it opened.

I've found myself in disappearing mist, in the magical, natural land in the spring-time of the year. Following a carpet of green grass, full of spring violets. The sun was rising, the sky was blue and there was a soft warm breeze.

I've inhaled and filled myself with energy of this place.

Followed a well-worn path through a meadow and into the woods. With birdsongs in background, i've heard a stream with small rocks and water plants. Through the stream i've finally reached woods.

I've opened my eyes, and found in front of me a being full of love an compassion. It was green man, who was my guide.

Why a man appeared instead of woman?

I am not a gay, and woman would probably be a competition for a buddhist witch that I love. So the man came, for it was safer choice for this gender.


I've opened my heart and received his blessings, whatever needed was offered.

I've felt blessings, felt the energy of Creation coursing through me. It was place of Spirit.

Feeling my body infused with light and energy, love and Spirit, there was something in my hands, a gift for the Green Man.

There was something in my hands, something shaped from this energy. A sphere of light, with quickly moving butterfly-alike wings. A symbol of beauty flowering, after living for a while as a larva.

I've offered my gift and said thanks to the green man.

Time in this world came to an end. I've returned the way I came, past the door into my apartment, into my body, into the present.


I've returned with the power of Creation to manifest love and beauty, to give shape and form to Spirit, to create life that i long for. This was magic i am seeking.

I've opened my eyes, and clapped my hands three times, to help me ground myself and return consciousness to normal.

My feelings during this practice could be described as spring-time, young and beautiful. I am grateful for the green man's gift, perhaps he was best guide for me for now.

I've described in short my Guided visualization: Storytelling practice in my magical journal (this blog is my magical journal, among other topics).

Thoughtform & Energy.

About.

Just as sound can alter your consciousness and a phrase can help magic manifest, an image or symbol can provide a visual focus for meditation and for magic.

In traditional magical parlance,
what you focus on and project energy into (...) is called a
'thought form.'

/ EN: 'thought form' = PL: 'myślokształt' /.

It's also called 'setting your intention'.


Blog author's comment.

Thought forms can be visualized, sending energies can also be visualized.

Thought forms play their parts in determining what happens when energy is sent to them.

Traditional tools for directing energies are: Athamé and Wand, but the trained mind alone can do energy projection/direction even without these tools.

Energies in one's body can be raised by performing tiring, ecstatic practices such as:
- dancing,
- running on a treadmill,
- riding a home exercise bike,
- performing martial arts (for example: Karate) kata forms,
- practicing Qi Gong,
- going to a hard rock concert,
- etc...

One can combine dancing and/or other energy-rise exercises with chanting and/or drumming, as well.

etc...

After performing this/these practice(s), one can feel the body's heat rise, and can use imagination, body/hand(s) gesture(s), and/or other traditional tools to direct that energy before it dissipates.

Sometimes it's a good idea to speak/shout/think one's wishes as energies are directed/sent.

There's also the Wiccan rite called: 'Cone of Power' that uses these energy-rising, wishing & directing practices.

Wicca Made Easy: Magical Chanting ('Nice, Scented, Attractive').

Chanting is one of the most joyful ways to alter our consciousness
(which has been scientifically proven),
and make magic.

I've given some thought to a short phrase that expresses what I want to change, accomplish, create in life. I didn't overthink, letting my playful side have some fun composing something that I enjoy.

Nice, Scented, Attractive, ...
Nice, Scented, Attractive, ...
Nice, Scented, Attractive, ...
Nice, Scented, Attractive, ...
Nice, Scented, Attractive, ...
Nice, Scented, Attractive, ...
Nice, Scented, Attractive, ...
...

I sat in a place where i wouldn't be disturbed. I've breathed until I felt my mind and body grow quiet and peaceful. I've felt energy flowing through me and around me.

I've felt my consciousness shift and my perception became clearer. I've felt my heart open, i've felt myself to be increasingly connected to the Sacred. I've felt myself coming into union and wholeness. I've thanked Creation for receiving my intention, my energy, my magic.

I've inhaled fully and naturally. I've chanted my enchantment as I exhaled.

...

I've completed the Chant, as described in a book ('Wicca Made Easy', by Phyllis Curott).

I've created a Spell, and wrote it in my Magical Journal (this blog is my magical Journal, among other topics).

What you chant, repeat, visualize,
imagine evokes change within
you and in the world.

Wicca Made Easy: Purifying Myself & Experiencing the Divine.

The book arrived.

After reading introduction and first chapters, i've found a salt-water purification practice and guided meditation practice for experiencing the Divine presence.

I did the purifying, holy bath ... and then observed how my disturbing thoughts and feelings go down the drain with salt-water.

Then after a while of rest i practiced meditation for experiencing the Divine presence.

Some breaths, some muscles tensing & relaxation in the whole body, then i've set my focus on an occasion when i've felt the Divine presence. In was in the nearby park when i've seen a young man dressed in Mahakala cloak behind me. I've felt blessings & energies rushing around and through me. If i am remembering correctly, I was about 25 years old when this happened.

On another day, i repeated the practice of experiencing the Divine presence.

I've experienced the Blessings of Warm, Loving and Protecting Energies, I've felt Calmness and Peace when i've meditated in a Buddhist Center. I think that Parvati, Hindu deity of Power played a part in this. Voices in my head, some of them I associate with certain Buddhist Teacher whose name I won't reveal here, tell me that Parvati played her part in blessings for sure. I'll include Parvati in my further practices, when needed.

I've asked the Divine Couple - the Mahakala and Parvati to stay with me. I've asked them to Protect and Guide me, in service for the Buddha Karmapa 17th Trinley Thaye Dorje. I'll offer Them something worthwhile as well. I know that Mahakala accepts Cookies and Tea, and from what i've seen - Parvati likes Light & Flowers. Perhaps the Lotus Incense will be a nice offering for her.

/ Parvati, the Hindu Deity is the one who gives life energy or Shakti to all beings. When Parvati, godess of Power, manifests as Kali, She is the Fierce Protector as well. /

I've said thanks, and opened my eyes.

Now i am writing about this on my blog, for it is my magical journal, among other topics.

Awakening the Witch Within, 2nd Step.

I've taken the second step to win the Wisdom and to Awaken the Witch Within.

Using the Phyllis Curott's Witches' Wisdom TAROT Deck, I did 1-card read with this intention, the intention for the Deck to show me the way for Self-Development as a Witch.


The card drawn was 'Witch of Fire'.

Meaning of the image can be found within Witch's Eyes, can be found by looking within and can be found in Self-Discovery.

But according to Phyllis Curott's guidebook for the TAROT deck, the meaning of the Card is as follows:

Witch of Fire.

1. WISDOM.

Deep within Mother Earth, a sacred cave is filled with heat and dreams. Swirling smoke conceals then reveals the Witch of Fire. The spark of Life burns in her eyes as she tosses bay leaves into a bowl of glowing embers. Fire dances as she summons visions. The mythic snake wraps round the immortal Oracle as the Pythia looks into your heart. She knows what the future holds and what magic will create it. She knows how the spark of Life becomes flames of joy. But before she shares her precious wisdom with you, you must know yourself.

--
Blog author's comment: Pythia was the priestesses of the greek deity Apollo. Pythia were highly regarded, for it was believed that she channeled prophecies from Apollo himself, while stepped in a dreamlike trance.

A Pythia was chosen among the priestesses of the temple upon the death of the previous Pythia. At the height of its popularity up to three Pythiai were known to hold office. Pythias were likely women from higher-class families, were educated, and well-read.

At the temple center, Pythia sat on a covered tripod cauldron over a deep well-like chasm. Seated in this way, enveloped by vapors while shaking bay branches, the Pythia would fall into a trance state and channel the god. In this way did the Pythia pronounce judgment and prophecy to those in attendance.

Those seeking the counsel of Apollo and his priestess would bring offerings of laurel branches, gifts of money, and a sacrifice of a black ram.

Apollo was deity associated with the bow, music, poetry, healing, purification, medicine and divination. The epitome of youth and beauty, source of life and healing, patron of the arts, and as bright and powerful as the sun itself, Apollo was perhaps the most loved of all the gods.

Divination is more or less fortunetelling, obtaining information.

2. ESSENCE.

Look within. Know yourself. Find gold in the dark.

3. COUNSEL.

The Fire Witch challenges you to discover what you truly want. It may not be what you first think. Look within and don't be blocked by what frightens you. There is gold in the darkness - lessons that will liberate your Spirit and empower you. When you recognize that, the Fire Witch will show you how to bring your dreams into being and fill your life with joy.

4. MAGIC.

Create a dream pillow. Hold dried mugwort / EN: 'Mugwort' = PL: 'Bylica', 'Piołun' /, preferably organic, and ask it to work with you. Fill a small cotton / EN: 'cotton' = PL: 'bawełna' / bag with it or tie it in a cotton handkerchief. Ask your question. Ask for a sign, for a guide. Ask your dreams to help you. Place the dream pillow under your pillow. Go to sleep. When you wake up, before getting out of bed, write down everything you remember from your dreams.

--

I've understood that I need to look within, to understand what I truly need. This might be different from what I thought so far.

I've understood that I need to precise what I want from Wicca/Witchcraft, why I want to be an officially initiated Wiccan/Witch.

From Wicca/Witchcraft i want friendships, wisdom, protection, blessings and to develop my love-attractiviness and good style. Slim shape, nice scent, nice dress etc. But I also want from Wicca/Witchcraft to teach me how to perform wisely the supernatural acts, how to empower my spells, how to make my spells manifest faster and better. I want my practices to be as simple as possible, to be a fine and beautiful works of Art, Art of Magick & Light. I want to see/hear/etc. proofs that my magick & other supernatural powers really work. Finally, I want Wicca/Witchcraft and Buddhism to understand each other, to nicely, fairly and efficiently work together, to fulfill mutual goals together.

I want to repay Wicca/Witchcraft in kind, to serve, to help, to support & to donate money for all the efforts Wiccans/Witches do for me. I understand that Wiccans/Witches also have their costs & expenses, and I do not want to unfair & ungrateful.

I've also understood that i should not be afraid of life's hardships, for these are lessons. By going through hardships, one develops inner strength and wisdom, at least.

'Real development happens beyond the comfort zone'.

My Desire for Wiccan Initiation.

As the time flows, I want more and more to be initiated in Wicca (Wicca is a Religion of Witchcraft, more or less), beside Buddhism. I am aware that following too many of spiritual paths might lead to confusion and insanity, but combining just these two seems to be nice and fine still.

I hope that my Buddhist Teachers do not mind, and perhaps we need time to prepare for that initiation. I'll wait patiently for as long as it's needed and necessary.

I need to read two books before I decide finally:
1. 'Modern Wicca: A History from Gerald Gardner to the Present' by Michael Howard (I have this book since a while),
2. 'Wicca Made Easy: Awaken the Divine Magic Within You' by Phyllis Curott (Ordered this book today, should arrive in about 2 weeks).


After my positive decision, it still might take a while before my initiation happens, because I wish to join the Circle/Coven of the Wiccan High Priestess, Phylis Curott, and She lives in the U.S.A. - quite a distance from Poland, where I live.

Awakening the Witch Within, winning the Wisdom - the first steps.

After consecrating the Phyllis Curott's Witches' Wisdom TAROT Deck, i've taken the first steps to win the Wisdom and to Awaken the Witch Within.

I did 1-card read with this intention, the intention for the Deck to show me the way for Self-Development as a Witch.


The card drawn was '10 of Earth'.

Meaning of the image is wandering in the forest, easy to get lost. Mushrooms are magical flora, and sometimes hallucinogens. To me, the trees also represent disturbing emotions.

But according to Phyllis Curott's guidebook for the TAROT deck, the meaning of the Card is as follows:


10 of Earth,
- Web of Life -

1. WISDOM.

Seize the golden thread leading into the magic forest, a strand in the Web of Mushrooms and Mycelium, the conscious Web of Life. Lie upon the mossy ground and listen. Below the surface of soil and perception is a network of connection, alive and humming with messages, pulsing with the energy, nourishment, and healing flowing from one being to another. Everything is joined in this intervoven mystery, this hidden world within the world. It seems strange and other, yet familiar and ecstatic when you taste it on your tongue. Your DNA will recognize what your mind has forgotten: all beings are connected and depend upon one another.

2. ESSENCE.

Consciousness of Creation, interconnection, communion, green wisdom. You are never alone. Web of support.

3. COUNSEL.

You're called into deeper community and higher consciousness, beyond your current understanding. The Plant People are willing and wise teachers, and many are healers who will teach you about the medicine within the heart of every person. Commit to a path of beauty, harmony, and balance in body and soul. Recognize, revere, and celebrate your connections with Creation.

4. MAGIC.

Take a walk. Ask a plant to be your ally and teacher, to help you understand the greater consciousness of Life. It may be a weed growing in a sidewalk crack or the largest tree in the park. Whatever it is, observe it, listen to it, talk to it. Research its biology, folklore, and medicine. Cultivate your relationship with it and honor its wisdom.

--

I've understood that to develop as a Witch, i need to connect with other Witches, to learn and help each other. We are all interconnected, interdependent, which means that we depend upon each other to become what we want to be. Perhaps the Internet is a beginning, just a beginning. The central guidance, the higher consciousness - perhaps a Witches' Deity - is important too.

I've understood that i should have more time and attention for the Nature and for the World of Plants, and walked among the spring bushes and trees in my apartment block. I've chosen single tree as the most important one for me... perhaps it should be my Plant Teacher, but no rush... such relations need time to develop well.

The path seems to be obscured by confusion, disturbing emotions and conflicts, but in the forest there are clearings too.

Akasha & Akashic Records.

Akasha.

Akasha or Akash means space or sky or aether in traditional Indian cosmology, depending on the religion. The term has also been adopted in Western occultism and spiritualism in the late 19th century.

Akashic is Sanskrit for 'ether'. Ether is primordial energy.


Akashic Records (or Akashic Scrolls).

Stored-up cosmic memory. A level of time-consciousness within the Astral Plane that contains all the past events, thoughts, images, and activities of humanity from the beginning of time. This 'chronicle of the world' can be accessed by the mystic and the magician.

-- Quoted from: 'The Essential Golden Dawn. An Introduction to High Magic' by Chic Cicero and Sandra Tabatha Cicero.


Carl Jung.

Carl Jung, a renowned psychologist, refers to this realm (of Akashic Records) as the collective unconscious.

Source: the Internet.


Blog author's thoughts.

I think that Akashic Records (Or Akashic Scrolls) can be explained in buddhist terms as: 'Collective Store Consciousness' and that it's possible to find any information there as one looks within one's Mind. Answers, Secrets, Spells, Rituals ... anything can be 'digged' from there, if one is dedicated enough.

Yes, karma can be purified in more or less skilled ways... but I think that 'history' still remains there, nevertheless.

How to 'look within for information'?

One can make a wish, then try to find a way... in books, in the Internet, from lessons of various teachers.

I also think that TAROT cards can also be used to find out 'how to proceed in a best way to find this information' ... TAROT cards can be consulted at any stage of the search: either at the beginning, in middle or near the end.


In Buddhism there's no such thing as 'Beginning of Time', in fact we think that time has no beginning nor end.

In Buddhism Akasha means: 'Space', either limitless or limited.

... a questions arises now: 'How Space is related with Energy (Ether)?'

Perhaps:
- Energy & Matter fill the Space. Matter can be perceived as Energy as well.
- Space is just a Container, either Limited or Limitless.
- Depending on the 'Energy Field' within Space ('Energy Field' is 'Spread of Energy in Space'), Space has certain Form, certain State.

Because of Energy, we experience Space in a certain way. Different Forms in Space make for different experiences of the Space in one's Mind.

Thus, the word: 'Akasha' would mean: 'Space and it's Form'.


Source: the Internet, books (mostly buddhism & science), my knowledge and experience.

Astral Journeys & the 'Portal Within'.

I was chatting with a friend about esoteric (internal, like refining soul from base soul to the noble soul) & exoteric (external, like turning base metals into noble metals) things.... and among the topics mentioned were the journeys to/through the Astral Plane.

See also, if You wish:
> [ About the Spiritual Alchemy ],
> [ My Journal - Lucid Dreaming, OOBE & Milam ].

He said that when travelling to Astral Plane, one should be very careful - as plenty of things can appear just what one wants to see. He advised to 'test them', quoting many references to that in occult literature.

He also advised to use Protections - such as Elemental Protections - before i'll try to go into the Astral Plane.

I think that I should use TAROT to divine best way to prepare, and best way to proceed into and through the Astral Plane, and maybe ask the TAROT about Protections to prepare a'priori.

Even if i am forbidden to go to the Astral, i should prepare for it nevertheless - in case of doing Astral Travel involuntarily, against my conscious will. Probably I'll need to ask the TAROT cards about how to avoid going into the Astral Plane against my will, as well.

Another interresting idea he shared, is that Magical Portals (to Astral Plane or elsewhere) are in fact inner things, existing within one's Mind - and not in the external world.

I think that one's Mind exists in one's heart, and that everything one does - including passing through the Magical Portal - can be explained as 'Switching one's Mind State'.

About the Spiritual Alchemy.

What is 'Alchemy'?

In the past, alchemists sought the 'Philosopher Stone', something that would help them to turn the base metals - such as lead - into the noble metals - such as gold.

Late medieval tradition of Alchemy played a significant role in the development of early modern science (particularly chemistry and medicine).


What is 'Spiritual Alchemy'?

Many people practiced (and still practice) the 'Spiritual Alchemy', magickal practices that would refine one's lead-soul into gold-soul.


Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn.

I think that the 'Golden Dawn' part of Order's Name implies that they practice both for material abundance, wealth, as well as for the soul's refinement practiced in the Spiritual Alchemy.

My Journal - Lucid Dreaming, OOBE & Milam.

A longer while ago I've practiced Lucid Dreaming, with 1 or 2 successes. When asleep i was aware that i am sleeping and to some degree i could control where the dream takes me, and my Mind.

Then I've dropped this practice because of thoughts appearing in my Mind. These thoughts told me that I have higher priorities in my life than Lucid Dreaming and Astral Travel (Lucid Dreaming can beu introduction to OOBE, to Astral Travel). Probably because of time & effort that has to be put in OOBE/Milam ... time & effort that i could put in fight for love.

Still, I had dreams sometimes where I tried to wake up but could not. I've dreamed that I am waking up ... then all of sudden, appeared sleeping again. Again and again, many times.

Now, however I had a dream where I slept but tried to wake up and go to do something on my computer... i've walked to it then appeared sleeping again .... few times again and again. Then phone rang alarm and I really woke up.

Then thought appeared that perhaps i am trying to Travel Astrally, to leave my body and go somewhere.

... this happened just after creating an art about a Deity from the Astrak Plane. Printed picture with Astra (Astral Deity) was on my way from bed to my computer too, so I've walked perhaps not to my computer, but to this Deity, seeking portal to go through. (This art is a picture just below, there's portal in background too).

I got excited but thoughts in my mind reminded me of my priorities. These thoughts told me that I'm forbidden to practice OOBE (Out of Body Experience), and Milam (Tibetan Dream Yoga), that I am forbidden to Travel Astrally.

Then another thought appeared in my mind, a voice who indroduced a while ago to me as a leader of Milam practicioneers. She told me that she will fight for permission and to make me practice Milam, for - according to Her - I am needed to serve her in the Astral. Perhaps, afterall, I could fight for love by serving Her in Astral Plane.

I think that She is from Lama Ole Nydahl's Sanga, like myself as well. Word: 'Sangha' means Buddhists' community.

I'm so excited.

... :)

Witches' Wisdom TAROT.

Introduction

There are many TAROT decks, some more and some less similar to 'classic' A.E. Waite's TAROT (also known as Rider-Waite TAROT).

I have some decks in my collection, but there's one special deck that i want to describe in a more detailed way, in this article.

Witches' Wisdom TAROT.

Created by Wiccan Priestess - Phyllis Curott, and Witch Artist - Danielle Barlow, this deck can be described as a 'Healing' deck.

This deck is meant to not have 'upside down' card draws and it's symbolism is gentler and 'less patriarchal' than in A.E. Waite's TAROT. More Wicca/Witchcraft, less of 'Abrahamic Religions'.

Unlike in most of other decks, the TAROT tools (Swords, Cups, Wands, and Pentacles) in this deck's Minor Arcana are replaced with elements they represent (Air, Water, Fire, Earth).

Curott's Deck can be used both for fortunetelling, as well as for spellcasting practices.

And more than that - it can be used as a way for self-development as a Witch, as a way to gain Wisdom and to awaken the Witch within. That's the main way of how this blog's author wants to use this TAROT deck.



'One doesn't have to be a Witch to benefit from Wisdom in this Deck.
This TAROT speaks to seekers of any spirituality, age, race, or gender identity
with culturally diverse imagery and universal wisdom'.


Personal Journey.

Complete with Deck, there's the Guidebook written by Phyllis Curott where one can find information about:
- How to make the Deck personal, how to Consecrate it and fill with one's own energies,
- How to do Elemental Journey with the Minor Arcana cards,
- How to do Soul Journey with the Major Arcana cards,
- How to do Divination with this Deck, the Witches' Wisdom TAROT will prophesize, foretell, and guide,
- How to perform Guided Visualizations, to enter a card and it's story, encounter the characters, creatures, teachers and Spirits, learn the lessons, and receive the blessings they offer,
- How to perform Journeying into the cards' imagery, to experience their magick and meaning,
- How to Meditate (on the imagery of TAROT cards) to alter consciousness and encounter Spirit,
- How to do Invocation, a powerful Magickal practice to call upon a deity or Spirit, etc ... to guide one or help, or whatever one needs,
- How to do Spellcasting, give divine energy flowing through caster a shape and form,
- Cards' meanings (both Minor Arcana and Major Arcana),
- Witches' Wisdom Deck's recommended spreads (1-card, 3-card, and 'Compass Rose').

A Little of the Art, of Magick & Light.

-=- Out from the Portal. -=-

Her name is: 'Astra' / Wisdom, From Stars /, she's a Deity of Love, Wisdom and the Art of Magick, she came from the Distant Stars.

I think that people can meditate on her and/or pray to her, to receive blessings.

Based on: [ 'A Light Within' on DeviantArt ].


Other Definitions:

def. Astral: from the greek word astrum, or 'star.' That which belongs to the incorporeal level of being, which is beyond the material or physical.

def. Astral Light: An omnipresent and all permeating fluid or medium of extremely subtle matter, this Light is diffused through all space, interpenetrating and pervading every visible form or object.

def. Astral Plane: An intermediate and invisible level of reality between the physical plane and the higher, more divine realms. It is the common boundary between the individual and noumenal reality. A nonphysical level of existence that is the basis of the physical plane.

-- Quoted from 'The Essential Golden Dawn. An Introduction to High Magic'
by Chic Cicero and Sandra Tabatha Cicero.

I've also read that Astral Plane is a World of Emotions & Imagination.
I think that Imagination is related to Visualization and to Illusions.

Selene & Selenite.

Selene. Selene is name of the enchanting Greek Goddess of the Moon, who brings light to the darkness of the night. Daughter of Titans Hyperion and Theia, Selene illuminates our inner world and governs the rhythms of our lives. Selene and Artemis were also associated with Hecate and all three were regarded as moon and lunar goddesses, but only Selene was regarded as the personification of the Moon itself. Her equivalent in Roman religion and mythology is the goddess Luna. Selene was/is worshipped at the new and full moons, and played an important role in love magick. See also, if You wish: > [ Selene on Wikipedia ], > [ Luna on Wikipedia ], > [ Artemis on Wikipedia ], > [ Hecate on Wikipedia ].

Selenite.

Selene's name is forever linked with the powerful crystal Selenite, believed to hold her divine lunar energy.

(Well, in Buddhism we think that nothing lasts forever - except for Enlightenment, but this blog is about Witchcraft/Wicca & other Magick, and far less about Buddhism. I am not sure about Wiccan/Witchcraft's approach to eternity as well.)

This stunning, milky-white gemstone is known for its ability to cleanse, charge, and amplify the energy of other crystals.

It's convenient to keep quartz (or other) crystals in a Selenite bowl when they are not in use - so they are ready to be picked up and used when one needs, without prior preparations.

Less chores with purifying in salt/rice, less chores with charging.

(Selenite should be kept away from water because the Selenite dissolves in water, and because it is made up of a gypsum compound, it’s toxic).


Selenite bowl.

I've got a selenite bowl for cleansing & charging crystals (quartz crystals for now).

It's size is 6 cm x 6 cm. (It's small, can hold only 3 crystals).

-=- Empty Selenite Bowl. -=-

-=- Selenite Bowl with 3 Quartz Crystals. -=-

Spoon.

About.

Magick is like a Sword.

When learning magick, first thing to learn is when to NOT use magick.

But then, second lesson is that it's wise to protect the weak ... so we can fight wisely.

... I advise using the 'Minimum Force Approach'.


Spoon.

Waving a wand is NOT like waving a spoon in the soup.

Magick is not meant to be used to conjure money and eat to one's full. But sometimes magicians do that, nevertheless.

One should use wand wisely, with a forethoughts. For example one can touch medicine with a wand, then one's forehead ... directing energies and avoiding making unneccessary and stupid moves in process.


Matrix Quote.

Charging Quartz Crystals.

a Quartz Crystal.
(Mountain Quartz, pl: 'Kryształ Górski').


Purpose.

Crystals are useful tools for working with energies, and - like a battery - can be charged and used to charge other things.

Crystals can also be charged with complete spells, and carried in a pocket until the conditions (defined in the process of spell preparation) make the spell 'fire' (start working). Smartphones with liquid crystal displays (LCD) can also store spells, but this can be tricky. Also - one should keep in mind that this practice (storing spells in crystals and/or smartphones) can be very dangerous. This use of crystals (to store spells) is worth another, full article.

Many things can be charged with energy - Sigils, TAROT cards, Other Symbols, Crystals, etc.

Charging a symbol connects the Symbol with One's Intent, and makes the Symbol to start working it's magick to fulfill the Intent.

Charged symbol (sigil or a tarot card for example) can be destroyed (by burning for example) to make it work for one purpose then cease - this helps magick to fade from consciousness to one's unconscious.


'First you must learn the craft of magick.
Then forget the craft and embody the art of living through Do'.

-- Quoted from 'Mage: the Ascension', it's Akashic Brotherhood's Motto.

Do means 'The Way', 'Way of Life' - it's popular idea in Martial Arts and in Buddhism.


The whole point of destroying it is because the objective is to implant it into the UNCONSCIOUS and remove it from the conscious mind. Destroying it is the first step in this. Like with many examples of other magick (or perhaps even in all magickal practices), you perform your working, give thanks that it's already done, then walk away and forget about it.

... or if we want magick of a symbol to work continuously, we don't destroy it but put in a proper place in one's apartment/home. We need to recharge symbol once a while (usually once in a month).

Charged quartz crystals can be put on a symbol (Sigil, TAROT card, etc...) to charge the symbol. Quartz crystals are like batteries and amplifiers that hold and release one's own energies.

(Quartz has a property called piezoelectricity, meaning it can generate its own power. That's why Crystal radios came to be, the quartz crystals functioned as a sort of battery to power the radio. Crystal is an amplifier).

See also, if You wish:
> [ Piezoelectricity on Wikipedia ].


Cleansing Energies in Quartz crystals.

Quartz Crystals can be buried in Rice or Salt (for 24 hours), to cleanse the Crystals from harmful energies.

Putting them in a Selenite bowl has similar effect (for more details - see below, in charging quartz crystals section of this article).


Charging a Quartz Crystals.

One can charge crystals (or anything else that needs to be charged) with one's own energies by sitting in a comfortable position (preferably on floor or on a cushion in a crosslegged position - like during meditation), holding crystal in fingers of both hands, then visualizing light entering body with breath and going to lower belly and then exhaling breath and visualizing the light/breath flowing from belly through one's body and through hands and fingers to the crystal. One should keep breathing to inhale and exhale the energies, for as long as one's intuition tells.

I've also read a mention in the Internet that a symbol can be charged by surrounding it with burning candles, or by putting it on a smartphone when it's connected to a battery charger.

As for Selenite bowls, i've learned that Selenite bowls both purify and charge quartz crystals. It's convenient to keep quartz crystals in a Selenite bowl when they are not in use - so they are ready to be picked up and used when one needs, without prior preparations. Less chores with purifying in salt/rice, less chores with charging.

(Selenite bowls should be kept away from water because the Selenite dissolves in water, and because it is made up of a gypsum compound, it’s toxic).


Links.

See also, if You wish:
> [ Selene & Selenite ].

Mercury, Quicksilver, Messenger of Deities.

About.

Mercury is a chemical element; it has symbol Hg and atomic number 80. It is a silvery looking liquid metal known as quicksilver and was formerly named hydrargyrum from the Greek words hydor (water) and argyros (silver). It has fast molecular motion and mobility.

In a polish language, Mercury is known as: 'Rtęć' and quicksilver is translated as: 'żywe srebro'.

Greek deity known as Hermes was known as Thoth in Egypt, and as Mercury in Rome. Deity who served as a messenger to other deities.

Mercury's name is shared with name of the nearest planet to the sun, a planet that was noted for it's speed and mobility.


Retrogrades.

Three to four times a year, the planet Mercury appears to travel backward across the sky. We refer to these periods as times when Mercury is in apparent retrograde motion or simply ”Mercury retrograde.”

In reality, the Earth briefly overtakes Mercury in its orbit.

Since Mercury rules communication, information and travel, the retrograde period is said to affect these areas.

More of communication problems, but also time to revert and correct recent mistakes.


Blog author's observation.

Hermes - as deities' messenger - has to be quick, has to quickly deliver information.

In modern days, the Internet is medium that allows to communicate quickly even at longer distances.

Is the Internet a part of Hermes' attributes, a part of 'it's portfolio'?

... personally, I think: 'Yes'.