Awakening the Witch Within, 8th Step.

I've taken the 8th step to win the Wisdom and to Awaken the Witch Within.

Using the Phyllis Curott's Witches' Wisdom TAROT Deck, I did 3-card read with this intention, the intention for the Deck to show me the way for Self-Development as a Buddhist/Wiccan Witch.

The Cards drawn were:

1. Past: '5 of Fire',
2. Present: '8 of Water',
3. Future, Probable Outcome: 'Shaman (13)'.

X	5 of Fire Choice	8 of Water Instinct	Shaman (13)
Wisdom	The forest is ablaze. Are the trees adorned in Autumn's colorful glory, a verdant and varied community living in harmony, bathed in the honeyed sunlight that makes all things thrive? Or is the forest burning, with our aggression, destruction, and misunderstanding spreading like wildfire? Fire creates and Fire destroys. This is a moment of choice and change. The course of Life hangs in the balance. Look more closely. Which do you see? Which do you choose?	The full Moon exerts its magic. Eight baby Turtles hatch from their well-buried eggs and scuttle across the sand. Something deep within urges them out of Earth and into Water, pulls them along the path of glistening moonlight, guides them from dreaming into being. It's their magic, responding to the Moon's. It's Instinct. Which do you hear when you hold a shell to your ear - the ocean's tides rushing to you or your own blood answering the Moon's pull? The Turtles plunge into welcoming Water. Their adventure has begun.	At times, the Pilgrim's path leads through darkness, with hope held aloft like starlight in a lantern to the North Star shining in the heavens above. At times, she feels so lonely that the wind between the stars blows through her heart. But when she listens carefully, she hears upon that she hums along and birds dance in the Air around her. The Pilgrim is ready. The teacher appears. The Shaman, arms encircled by feathered serpents who enclircle the world, beats the rhythm of enchantment that accompanies his song, His mind opens, his heart opens, the way opens between the worlds, where neither time nor space constrain him, and he enters through a portal of reindeer skin stretched tight around a wooden frame. Blindfolded and in darkness, he drums the heartbeat of Mother Earth. He drums at the center of the circle, where all worlds meet as One. The rhythm reverberates through the worlds. Magic stirs into motion. The Shaman calls his guides to show the way. The Pilgrim closes her eyes and listens to the drum. She listens to the heart of Mother Earth beating. Mind open, heart open, she sees the way opening before her and steps into the realm of Spirit. She hears the voices of all the peoples - plants and animals, Ancestors and elders, winds and Waters and minerals, Spirits and allies - and knows all these compassionate and loving beings are singing to her. She listens and learns what they know - the wisdom way of healing and becoming whole, of becoming a wise one. She hears Creation singing. She feels the rhythm of her heart beating in time which the heart of Mother Earth, with the heart of Creation. Listen to the drum. The teacher has appeared to teach you the song of Life.
Essence	Warning, abuse of power. Choice. Organic change.	Awakening. Trust your Instincts. Sense the pull of destiny. Adventure awaits.	Apprenticeship, introspection, skills. Spirit guides, a teacher. Altered states, sensing the Sacred.
Counsel	This is a card of warning. It shows both sides of Fire: one that is natural and life-sustaining; the other reflecting humanity's abuse of the element. Which do you see? To change the world, you must first change yourself. How do you hold your own power? Do your wounds make you selfish, angry, even abusive, or draw those who are? Take time for reflection and healing. Find ways to honor and harness your Fire that will contribute to your own happiness and to creating an empowering, supportive, and diverse community, wherever you find it. Small changes lead to big ones.	Listen to your Instincts, your intuition, the wisdom of your heart and your body. They know things your mind can't explain. For thousands of years, we've been taught to ignore and supress our Instincts, to think them too dangerous to rely on. But trust the magic that's within you. It's part of your true nature, just as you are part of Nature. Allow the wildness within to hatch, to run toward whatever is drawing you. Wholeness and fulfillment await you.	On this path of becoming, it's time to find a teacher who will teach you the skills you need to discover your true self, to accomplish whatever gives you joy, to fulfill your destiny. When the Shaman appears, you are called to listen to the voice of the Sacred. To hear it, you must be willing to work in darkness, as the Shaman does. Learn to journey. Call the spirits who have deep compassion and love for you and ask them to help you navigate through your life. Pay careful attention and be blessed by the heart of the Divine pulsing through Creation, pulsing through you. It's time to sense the Sacred, in the world and in yourself.
Magic	This is practical magic toward healing humanity's relationship with power. Simply perform an act of community's service in a way that feels appropriate, whether it's picking up litter or spending half an hour talking to someone who's lonely. Make a commitment to this positive, empowering and joy-creating action and follow through.	At next full Moon, put a shell to your ear and listen. Strip off your clothes, strip off the egg that's protected and enclosed you. Go into Water, whether sea or stream or shower. Feel the cold Water make your heart pound within your chest. Emerge more alive than when you entered. Pay attention to your intuition.	Take an offering and your magical journal, and head outside to a spot that calls to you. Sit on the Earth. Breathe and ground yourself. Take your time. Place your hand on the ground, on the breast of Mother Earth. Feel her warmth, her energy. Feel the pulse of her energy against the palm of your hand. Place your other hand on your heart. Feel your heart's rhythm in sync with Mother Earth's heart. Gently tap the rhythm of your heartbeat upon the Earth: bum bump, pause, bum bump, pause.... Feel the energy of Mother Earth flowing through you, filling you, nourishing you. Feel her love filling you. Think of her countless generous blessings. Think of how she nourishes and sustains you, body and soul. Thank her. Make your offering. Write about your experience in your journal. Next time, you may wish to bring a drum.

I've understood that to Awaken as a Buddhist Witch, that to awaken Wisdom within, I need to trust my instincts and consider my past and probable, foretold future. My instinct and intuition tell me that Buddhism needs some time to prepare, before I can involve myself more into Wicca/Witchcraft. I want to be officially Initiated in a Wicca. My instinct tells me to wait, but not for too long.

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 ].

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.

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'.

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.

Awakening Shadow Pentacle for Protection.

Tonight i did feel attacked supernaturally, so i started to develop a Low Magick Attack for Protection.

i've used MtGO Cards creatively, as well as simple invocation spells & my Black Obsidian Skrying Mirror.

i've selected a pair of two MtGO Cards:
- Cloak of Mists,
- Psychic Drain.



'Cloak of Mists' spell is Mind Magick, creatively used it protects mind, obscures thoughts as mist - so magick with it is hard to detect & understand, at least.

'Psychic Drain' spell is Black Magick, creatively used it attacks someone's life force & sanity, but life force can be recovered by eating more. There's also memory loss associated, which - aside from offensive value - also makes it harder to learn / counter - especially with 'Cloak of Mists' subtlety touch.

When used with low power, this combined spell makes someone get fatter from eating & less sane.

When used with high power, it's very dangerous and a lot of troubles.

By the 'Rule of Three', energy sent returns to caster three-fold, however.


i've looked at a reflection of these two cards in my skrying mirror, to initiate learning of this low magick spell.

i've named it 'Cloaked Psi-Drain'.




Then after more of magickal-dharmic practices, i've invoked protection five times, as in pentacle's arms.

It uses 'Cloaked Psi-Drain', so it's Magick Black & Low, but not without Mind's Light - Magick of Light & Darkness, Magick of Shadow Nature. Pentacle is pointed downwards, as this is more of spiritual descent than ascent. While i am not a fan of spiritual descent, everyone has right for self-defence & for protecting others.

Then i've invoked Wisdom three times, of both Magickal & Buddhist Nature, Visualizing it as a triangle within Pentacle's Protection.

Then i've invoked 'Awaken' once, related with Buddhist HUNG Mantra that awakens Mind, and transforms Anger into Fearlessness, placing it in a circle in the Center.

It's a powerful shortcut to Protect with Wisdom, Calmness, Fearlessness, Focus & Black Low Magick, can be invoked with short Phrase: 'Shadow Pentacle, Awaken!'.

Can be invoked quietly, in Mind or Aloud.





See also, if You wish: A Three of the Card 'Games', Low Magick: Protection against Shadow.

Awakening.

in Buddhism it's either state of 'Satori' or 'Bodhi' or perhaps another Way(s) ...

these mean 'Awakening from Confusion', 'Awakening from feelings & thoughts that Cloud the Mind', 'Understanding' , 'Comprehension',

'Awakening from Delusions of this or that type ...',

in 'Mage: the Ascension' it's something i fail to understand fully, for now at least.