Kansas City Witches Meetup Presents
Elements: Fire
Sumer Solstice 2019
The Center Spiral
Disclaimer: All thoughts and opinions expressed in any article in this publication are expressly those of the author and the author only. They do not necessarily represent the thoughts and opinions of The Center Spiral Magazine and Staff.
Letter from the Editor The Center Spiral STaff From the STars Turn of the Wheel Litha Mabon Fire by Catherine Boudreau Luna's Lair with Luna Motherowl Deity Cafe Pele Ra Power of the Gods by Kevros Nocte Songs of the Season with Mike Nichols Musecraft Lesley Ravenhair Pencraft D. Ackerman Shanril Oc Arran Diversity: The spark of transformation by Sam Shryock In the Cards Strength Wild Messengers Crystal Corner Fire Agate Gifts of Gaia Marigold An Old Fox Understands The Trap by Balder Bloodaxe Out of the Cauldron Saffron Pound Cake Mosquito Repellant Contemplative Crone from the Urban Crone Community Voices How do you connect with Fire? Bookshelf Resources Advertising Next Issue Ancestors and Spirits cONTRIBUTORS Thank you
Table of Contents
Cover Image: JS Groves
Image Credit: Emily Gabbert
Letter from the Editor
This issue of The Center Spiral marks the two year anniversary of this publication, as well as the end of our series on the four classical Elements: Fire. I can’t think of a better way to dive into our third year. Fire is the element with some of the most intense meanings. It is the one element that must be created and does not just exist for us to come upon in nature. Fire is the spark of inspiration, creativity and a light in the darkness, and the burning of our passions in both love and rage. It has a wild nature that must be contained because its destructive power is so immense, and yet Fire's transformative power has been one of the more important tools in human evolution and civilization. When our primitive selves learned to utilize fire to cook our food, we had more energy for growing brains instead of digesting food. Gathering around the light and warmth of a fire has long been a tool for bringing people together, for building a community and making connections. Even today, if there is a fire, we will gather around it. We have used fire to melt and shape metals to create alloys and build ever stronger and more complex tools, weapons, and art. It is key in hardening clay and setting glaze for household items, art, and tablets that tell the stories we’ve lost in time. Technology and civilization have been pushed forward immensely with the burning of coal and fossil fuels. I would even argue that electricity and nuclear power are still fire in less obvious forms. Perhaps the most unique aspect of fire is that it is the one element we have always known exists in abundance throughout the rest of the universe. It is the most obvious thing out there we have always needed, the Sun. The burning of our nearest star is an important aspect of what makes life possible on this planet. Other stars are always burning out, exploding, imploding, starting anew, and creating the elements of life each time. The power of fire is constantly pushing us into the future. Whether towards destruction or greatness all depends on us, and how we utilize this element, both physically and magically. Let’s work toward educating ourselves so we can be inspired toward better things, and make the connections toward greatness.
Emily Gabbert Editor
The Center Spiral Staff
Audrey Hazzard has been practicing some form of witchcraft for over 20 years, and leading public and private rituals in the Kansas City area for the last 10. She's a tarot reader with a fondness for chaos magick, trance work, potions, farmer's markets, feminism, and vintage cookbooks. She blogs intermittently and travels whenever she can.
Emily Gabbert has been a practicing witch and a follower of a Pagan path for nearly 20 years. She led a group for alternative religions at MU, and was tapped into a society recognizing women leaders for her efforts. She joined the Kansas City Pagan Community in 2013, and has been a co-organizer for the Kansas City Witches Meetup since 2016, receiving the KCPPD Community Service Award in 2017. She is a baker by trade with an interest in all kinds of arts and crafts, and sometimes she writes.
Laurie Sherman (Urban Crone) has over 30 years of experience in Tarot and divination, Urban Witchcraft, Multicultural Folk Magic and Eclectic Paganism. Recipient of the 2014 KCPPD Community Service Award, she has been a teacher and organizer for the Pagan community for a number of years, including her work with the KC Metaphysical Fair, Kansas City Pagan Pride Day, and has been the Organizer of the Kansas City Witches Meetup since 2012. Laurie Sherman is also a mixed medium and pyrographic artist, as well as a writer.
Emaleth Summer has been a practicing witch for more than 25 years. She is also a professional writer and editor with 11 years of experience in her field. Emaleth has several works in progress as well as a blog about witchcraft and eclectic paganism.
Mike Nichols is the author of The Witches' Sabbats and www.WitchesSabbats.com, both award-winning resources on Pagan holidays. Mike has been a featured speaker on National Public Radio, and local TV and radio programs. He taught classes in Witchcraft for twenty years continuously, beginning in 1970, and owned Kansas City's first occult bookstore, The Magick Lantern. A founding member of the Coven of New Gwynedd, Nichols was the first Wiccan representative on the Kansas City Interfaith Council.
Kim Tarwater is a Christo-Pagan Witch, leads a local circle here in the Kansas City area, and is a Reiki Master Teacher in Seichim and Usui. She owns and operates Higher Vibrations Metaphysical Studio where she teaches, counsels, and give readings. She thrives on learning and experiencing all the magic this life has to offer, from cruising on her motorcycle while balancing her chakras to climbing the Qabala from Malkuth to Kether.
June 21 ~ Summer Solstice or Midsummer ~ Neptune Retrograde ~ Sun enters Cancer July 2 ~ Total Solar Eclipse in Cancer (southern hemisphere) ~ New Moon July 4 ~ U.S. Independence Day July 7 ~ Mercury Retrograde July 16 ~ Lunar Eclipse in Capricorn ~ Full Moon in Capricorn:: Buck Moon, Thunder Moon, Hay Moon, Oak Moon July 22 ~ Sun enters Leo July 31 ~ New Moon in Leo Mercury Direct August 1 ~ Lammas or Lughnassad August 11 ~ Jupiter Direct ~ Uranus Retrograde August 15 ~ Full Moon in Aquarius:: Sturgeon Moon, Green Corn Moon, Grain Moon, Lightning Moon August 23 ~Sun enters Virgo August 26 ~ Women’s Equality Day August 30 ~ New Moon in Virgo September 2 ~ Labor Day (US) September 14 ~ Full Moon in Pisces:: Hazel Moon, Harvest Moon, Fruit Moon, Barley Moon September 18 ~ Saturn Direct September 21 ~ Fall Equinox or Mabon September 23 ~ Sun enters Libra
by Emily Gabbert
From the Stars
Litha
Turn of the Wheel
August 1 AKA Lughnassad Herbs acacia, sunflower, grains, basil, hops, elder, hollyhock, corn Gems citrine, peridot, aventurine, carnelian, amber, tiger eye Foods bread, corn, tomatoes, blackberries, beer Incense frankincense, sandalwood, allspice Deities Ceres, Demeter, John Barleycorn, Lugh Colors yellows, oranges, golds, tans, browns, reds, green Symbols corn dollies, scythe, bread, poppies, wheat, crafts found at fairs (think quilts, knitting, crochet, woodworking, etc.)
Here are some fun correspondences and tidbits about the upcoming holidays to help you with however you celebrate.
by: Emily Gabbert
September 21 AKA Autumn Equinox, Harvest Home Herbs acorn, marigold, sage, rosemary, thistle, oak leaves Gems amber, malachite, opal, lapis lazuli, smoky quartz, moss agate Foods squashes, pumpkins, apples, grapes, nuts, wine, dried fruits, pomegranate Incense frankincense, myrrh, clove, cinnamon, sage Deities Blodeuwedd, Persephone, Innanna, Cernunnos Colors oranges, browns, plum purples, reds, sage greens Symbols cornucopia, balanced scales, abundant harvest, changing leaves, sometimes "Pagan Thanksgiving"
Mabon
by Catherine Boudreau
Fire
Image Credit: Catherine Boudreau
If somebody’s full of energy, you could say that they’re a ball of fire. And you certainly don’t want somebody so angry that they breathe fire, especially if they’re full of fire and brimstone. If someone’s talking crap about you, you certainly want to fire back. And, avoid someone who has fire in their belly. If you want to get somebody all fired up, you could try adding fuel to the fire. But, be careful, because if you play with fire, you just might get burned. And you definitely want to be careful that they don’t fire back. After all, it can certainly get dangerous when you play with fire. Sometimes, it’s important to fight fire with fire. We certainly don’t want to do anything that might draw fire to ourselves. And I know I don’t like to come under fire. I certainly want to avoid a trial by fire and I definitely don’t want a baptism by fire, either. We certainly don’t want to jump from the frying pan into the fire. But I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had someone pull my bacon out of the fire. If we’re all worked up and firing on all cylinders, someone might ask us, “where’s the fire?” Someone who’s good at multitasking and does many things at once may be considered to have many irons in the fire. I know I often avoid being in the line of fire. If you think you can take me down, you’re welcome to fire away. I’ll probably just chill at the end of the night and drink some fire water at a fireside. Who hasn’t been on a road trip and had a Chinese fire drill? And it’s certainly important to keep the home fires burning. Fire is the optimum element, in my opinion. Otherwise why would there be so many aphorisms with it? Fire, after all, can turn water into steam and scorch the earth. And it can also spread and grow with a good wind. We can swim in the ocean. We can walk on the earth. We can fly in the air, but how many of us can walk through fire and come out unscathed? Don’t get me wrong, I love to play with fire. Nothing is more soothing and relaxing to me than sitting around a fire at night with friends or family, enjoying each other‘s company and maybe imbibing in a little fire water. Maybe, someday, we can share a little time around a fire together.
Dear Luna, I am fairly new to witchcraft and magic. I am struggling with the whole creating and believing it is magic when I am casting a spell. Where is it coming from? What can I do to help me feel it? -- Deanna S. Hi Deanna! You are not alone, that I am sure of. I personally believe that having a strong faith in, and knowing of, the source you are drawing your energy from is vital. Take some time to seek and find your source or sources, and then build and nurture a strong relationship, paying close attention to how it makes you feel. Once you have a relationship/connection with your source you must then put your trust and faith in it. Draw and send your energy from that, and I believe you will not only feel it is real but you will see the fruits it produces! I hope this helps! Blessings,
Luna's Lair
Luna
with Luna Motherowl
Know that there are no simple, unimportant questions, and none too off the wall. I can say that my answers will be honest to my truths, loving from my heart, and straightforward from my personality. I will reply to all email questions, and will choose a few questions & answers for publishing in each edition. Send all questions to asklunaslair@gmail.com.
Pele (Pel-eh) is the daughter of Haumea an Earth Goddess and one of the four main gods—Kane. Pele is the most famous of the Hawaiian Akua—this being the word for ancestral deity. Despite Her destructive nature Pele is actually responsible for the creation of the Hawaiian Islands. Pele and Her elder sister Namaka’okaha’i, a sea goddess, were constantly fighting and it was this sister that drove Pele to leave their home in Kahiki (the realm of the gods). With permission from her father, Pele built a canoe and left for a new home. She leaves with many gods including her favorite brother Kamohoali’i the king of the shark gods who lead her canoe and her youngest sister in egg form, Hi’iaka—goddess of hula, chant, sorcery, and medicine. Pele went from island to island trying to dig a hole for her volcanic fire but was thwarted by her sister each time until Pele made it to the Big Island. Finally, she was far enough inland that she could make her volcanic home for her and her brothers. In recorded encounters with Pele, she can become a beautiful young woman who may ask for food or shelter. Or perhaps a pure white dog that warns of impending lava flow. Her obvious correspondences are red, yellow (Hawaiian royalty colors) and black. She is also tied with Hula dance—as such there are many devoted to Pele. She is often seen as a dark and temperamental deity and although she does have a temper, she is more often seen as a creation deity to the Hawaiian people. A true testament of nature’s awe-inspiring force. Above all else Pele is a goddess of passion. In my own worship of her, she rules my artwork, dance, and my compassion for others. She is power and she is resistance in the face of unyielding adversity. He inoa no Pele (Her name is Pele). Book recommendations: - Pele the Fire Goddess by Pua Kanaka’ole Kanahele - Queen Liliu’oakalani has also written several books on Hawaiian culture and spirituality. When researching Hawaiian spirituality it also may be helpful to know that Huna is not part of the indigenous religious practices and is in fact a practice created solely by Caucasians with no bearing on the Hawaiian spirituality. In fact some variations of Huna use Hawaiian words but “re-translate” them to mean something completely different and can be very misleading.
Pele
by Kevros Nocte
Deity Cafe
Image Credit: Kevros Nocte
Kevros Nocte has been a chaos practitioner for close to a decade now and specializes in working with various types of astral spirits. Kevros is a Kansas City native and has taught several workshops in the community on working with familiars and contracting with astral spirits—with more to come hopefully within the year. This magazine has also published Kevros multiple times in the Winter Solstice 2017, Fall Equinox 2017, and Spring Equinox 2018 issues.
The Sun God, Ra (or “high noon”), of the fifth dynasty, is a major deity of the Egyptian pantheon. Ra is the God of the sun, the earth and sky, and all creation comes forth from him. He also commands the underworld. His major cult was primarily in Heliopolis, the city of the sun in the Ptolemaic Kingdom, now in the suburbs of Cairo. He is often depicted with a Sun disk over his head, entwined with a serpent, and often with the head of a falcon or cow. Ra was one of the Gods to have been held higher than Osiris, who later in stories would be one of Ra’s nine children, whom he was said to father with Hathor. Ra would merge with other gods over time, like Atum-Ra, or Amun-Ra, or even Horus, and Ra-Harakhty. The Amun, Khepri, or sunrise would indicate Ra as a young boy: the falcon, or Harakhty, would be his zenith at noon: and Atum the sunset, would be Ra, as an older man. The story was that Ra would die every night and be reborn every morning, repeating and exemplifying the cycles of life and rebirth. He travels on the Barque of a Million Years by day across twelve provinces or seas, and through the underworld by night. He is associated with a variety of animals, most notably the falcon and the serpent wrapped in his Sun-disk. He is pictured often as the scarab beetle, as well as the cow, cobra, bull, lion, ram, hawk, and cat. The Eye of Ra is another well known symbol. It is all-seeing and the eye of “creativity”; thought to be why our creativity comes to life at night, when the sun has given us its vision. Ra may be ready for his come back. We shall see, but only if we stare into the sun daily. Just kidding, don’t do that; or if you do, do so safely. May Ra watch over you. Blessed be.
Ra
by Arlin Pacheco
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
The most powerful weapon on earth is the human soul on fire. - Ferdinand Foch
Power of the Gods
Fire is a powerful element; it’s what made human societal evolution possible, from cooking, to weaponry, to warmth and safety. However, beyond that, it stands as an element of inspiration and passion. It has also been linked with anger, lust, and hunger. Fire has such a wide range of aspects it would be near impossible to list them all cohesively. Just as the aspects of the Gods themselves are immensely varied. So why do we so often assume that a single (or perhaps paired) patron Deity can rule over every aspect of our lives? Our lives do not consist of a singular focus, our lives are like kaleidoscopes—multifaceted and colorful. In a previous essay submitted to this magazine (Winter Solstice 2017, Fire in the Belly of the Earth) I talked about how the relationship with the Gods can be just as healthy or toxic as any human one. This article is a bit of a continuation on that idea. Think about your personal relationships. Perhaps you have things you can talk to your best friend about, but not your parents. Or perhaps your parents have more helpful information in an area you are interested in. In any case you may even designate friends to certain areas of your life—your pagan friends, work friends, school chums, etc. They are all intricately involved with a part of your life but perhaps not all of it. Maybe you have a few close confidantes that do know everything. However, you are also hopefully aware of their interests and perhaps your conversations revolve around those. Thinking in this way we can better our relationships with our Deities. After all, you may not want Ares to rule over your social life unless you like tumultuous friendships. Let me take a moment to talk about my own Deity relationships for some clarity. In the spirit of this issue’s focus, let me talk about the Hawaiian Volcano Goddess, Pele (this issue’s featured goddess). She is known for her temperament, but usually only after warnings have been ignored or Kapu (restrictions, things that are forbidden) are broken. She is also a nurturer and even brought her sister Hi’ika to term after being born an egg. In my practice, Pele takes the first seat in my Hawaiian pantheon. As part Hawaiian myself, I see Pele more as a sister-figure. I find her an inspiration, and since she rules the fire element between my four main deities, she rules my artistic passions. When I sit down to draw or paint—I pull from her for inspiration. When I dance, I say a silent tribute for Madame Pele. She rules whole-heartedly over almost anything artistic or that which I am passionate about—almost. Where the line is drawn is actually by one of my Celtic pantheon gods—Gwydion. As he is the god of poetry, sorcery, and all-around word-smithery—he rules over such things in my life. Even as I write this article I look to him for guidance on what must be said and what isn’t succinct enough, as I have a tendency to ramble. One of the ways I find out what my deities have chosen as their niche is by meditating on what they represent to me. Do they represent power, ambition, courage, inner-peace, or understanding? You may even find that you first connected with that Deity doing something specific like art, writing, or planning. Sometimes our initial thoughts on a Deity may not coincide with where they want to fit in with your life. Such as when I originally thought Pele would sit as first among all my gods—that was not what she wanted. This is where meditation on the Deity is important, otherwise the relationship doesn’t run smoothly. Beyond meditation, there’s the obvious research of the Deity in question. Perhaps it is not the attributes of the Deity but what they stand for that helps you determine how they fit into your life. Take the Akua Kamohoali’i, the second among my Hawaiian pantheon, brother to Pele (her favorite, in fact), and the Ali’i (chief/king) of all shark-gods in the Hawaiian mythos. Although Hawaiians had a close spiritual relationship with sharks, most people think of man-eaters (Niuhi) like tiger sharks and Great Whites. So your first thought may be that Kamohoali’i would be a vicious Deity best suited to devouring your enemies. However, when I invoke him into an aspect of my life, it is more often when I need a moment to sit back and relax. Above all else, Kamohoali’i is shown to be a protector in the Hawaiian stories. He stands against the Great Gods (the main four in the Hawaiian pantheon) themselves to protect his sister Pele from an arranged marriage. Thus, by researching His stories you find another very nurturing—albeit powerful—misunderstood Hawaiian Deity. So with information and meditation under your belt, it should be easier to figure out why you are drawn to a Deity and how you can best utilize their patronage. Figuring out what you want and what you need is also important. I may want to make lots of money but first I may need to become more confident in myself and more organized. And as we all know the Gods often have very different ideas on what we mortals need. I hope, perhaps this article ignites some new ideas on how to integrate centuries-old Deities into modern-day life. We have so many intricacies to our lives and the Deities have so many different aspects to pull from, we should utilize that resource. After all, we are polytheists not just monotheists.
Continued
Image Credit: Tammy Stipe
Songs of the Season
I admit it. Fire is my least favorite of the four classical elements. Maybe it has to do with my birth chart being less than 10% fire. Maybe it's because I associate fire with heat, and heat with summer, my least favorite of the four seasons. Maybe it's because my longest exposure to fire was being forced to sit around staring mindlessly into countless festival campfires (the equivalent of a Pagan lava lamp, so it is said), being bored out of my mind, while ticks climbed up my legs and oak mites fell onto my head from trees! I realize not everyone feels that way. In fact, I'd be willing to bet that most of the articles in this edition are laudatory of fire, summer, Pagan festivals (and even ticks and oak mites, for all I know)! Fine. But there must be a minority of folks who feel the way I do, so just maybe they will feel a little less alienated as they read my words. Our goal here is to be inclusive, after all. For the record, I did not always feel negatively towards fire. My earliest memories of fire were watching houses burn down and I had a great time! You see, my closest friend during grade school had a father who was on the local fire department, so whenever the alarm sounded, we begged and we pleaded (and were finally allowed) to go with! We got to ride on the firetruck with sirens screaming and, after reaching the site, we spent our time ferrying drinks to the firemen (lemonade in the summer, hot coffee in the winter) who were manning the hoses and such. It was exciting! Yes, of course it was sad to see somebody lose their home, but we were there performing our civic duty and it made us proud! Also, we should probably mention fireworks. ("Of course fireworks! We've known that for millennia!") Like most kids, I was obsessed with them. But the obsession never really went away. To this day, I don't feel like I have celebrated the 4th of July unless I have attended a really big fireworks display, always making sure to sit close enough (damn those police barricades!) to actually feel the still-warm bits of exploded paper falling onto my bare arms. And the smell of the gunpowder is an incense far headier than anything sold in the local metaphysical shops. Yeah, I know that each year people get hurt by fireworks (I was badly burned myself once), animals cower under beds at the noise, and some of those burning houses I already mentioned are the result of errant rockets. All of this decreases my enjoyment not one whit. So, despite fire being my least favorite element, there are certain aspects of it that I am happy to celebrate. And what better way to celebrate it than through music? Once again, we put out a call to our readers for songs of the element! And once again, our readers have responded with a dazzling playlist in multiple genres, celebrating both the physical and metaphorical presence of fire in our lives! We thank you all for your kind and thoughtful submissions, and present them to you with the sincere hope that it will warm your hearts, both now and (save this link!) in the future!
Elements: Fire Playlist
by Mike Nichols
How did you get started in your work? I began making spirit guide masks as part of an invitation for my krewe's Mardi Gras party in Kansas City a few years ago. When you invite other krewes to a party they must receive a gift and that year the masks were the memento. Overall I have been showing in the Kansas City area for the past 15 years. My first show was of poster size multi-layered paper cuts of the Greek deities. Where do you pull inspiration from? The masks are inspired by a mixture of New Orleans flair, West-African percussion, and channeling. New Orleans has a specific ambiance that cannot be replicated; it can only be revered, in my opinion. I have played West African drums for 10 years in drum circles, bands, and workshops. The power of drums and the beauty of the culture cannot be denied; drums are humbling. I have been channeling from a young age and creating masks is sharing my gift in a safe way with others. Channeling the divine and connecting with spirits is easier for people while using the masks as a focal point. People have also used them magically to focus on intentions in their lives, such as personal communication, protection, healing, and even virility. What mediums do you work in and why? I use a wide range of mediums: polymer clay sculpture, collage, up cycling, multi-layered paper cuts, acrylic painting, doll making, paper mache masks, sculpting with wire and clay. Art has been my main source of catharsis all my life. My main three mediums include polymer clay, paper cuts, and acrylic painting. I began using polymer clay so each mask was individually handcrafted and compact enough to be put on an altar. The paper cut art was so I could keep my preliminary Greek drawings and play with paper color combinations. My paintings are surrealistic and are emotionally freeing; my basement studio floor is splattered with paint. Getting involved in art as a process requires the maker to be open to new experiences. What advice do you have for aspiring artists? My best advice for aspiring artists is ask. Ask when you see a business to display your art, ask galleries what their criteria to show is, and ask artists what they are doing to succeed. Art is connection and in order to show, you must let people know who you are and what your passion is. Where do we go to find more of your work? My art will be displayed at Lotus Yoga In Overland Park, KS, in May, June, and July. I will be vending at Gaea Goddess Gathering Festival, Sept 19-22 at Camp Gaea. My work will be shown at Meriwethers in Leavenworth, KS, for the month of June. Additionally, I will be on display at Union Station for the KC Fringe Festival, July 14-28.
with Lesley Ravenhair
Musecraft
Pencraft
Image Credit: Jason Charleston
The Cycle First, summon Fire Come great pentecostal fire. Wash me. Assay my merit. Burn away my impurities. Then summon Water When my life is extinguished Flow over me. Scatter my virtues That my ashes may make fertile soil. Next, summon Earth From the dust and ashes Of the old Build me anew That I may blossom Last, summon Air Breath of life Inspire in me new passion. Give me the spark to create New fire.
by D. Ackerman
5.22.19 Beautiful day! Breezes carry the Sunshine. Ah, the Old Ways sing! 5.24.19 Sometimes hearing you Chokes me, immediately. Souls mate eternal.
by Shandril Oc Arran
Diversity
I was first attracted to the Pagan community because it provided me a radically different way of looking at myself and my world. As I started to self-identify as a Pagan and describe my beliefs to others, I struggled to create a definition that would identify Paganism to others and describe its common tenets, values and beliefs. I have since found that Paganism is too diverse, fluid, and individualistic to create this all-inclusive definition. Kaarina Aitamurto and Scott Simpson describe Pagans in their book “Modern Pagan and Native Faith Movements in Central and Eastern Europe” as "siblings who have taken different paths in life but still retain many visible similarities". Ancient paganism probably did not have the concept of “religion” as a distinct tradition with a coherent set of beliefs, values, and rituals that we have nowadays because of the influence of Christianity and its norms. Each culture would have had its own deities and customs and values. In Greek and Roman culture, it is well-documented that different deities had their own cults and that these were different in different regions. There were also many different schools of thought within classical paganism, such as the Stoics and the Epicureans. So now I have started to ask a different question. Perhaps being “Pagan” means nothing more (and nothing less) than being one of those who have gathered around this word “Pagan” to celebrate not a single meaning, but to celebrate diversity. It is a kind of unity, not despite our differences, but because of our differences. Value of Diversity Most Pagans have found diversity, not as an obstacle, but as a strength, as a resource. They have found that diversity challenges our thoughts and stretches the boxes that we construct within our own limited exposures. Diversity supports growth through our connections with a myriad of different types of people which enables us to think critically and expand the borders of our reality. A few years ago when the Lady Liberty League was working on the campaign to get approval from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs for the pentacle to be an option for the official tombstones of Wiccan (and other flavors of Paganism that use it) service men and women, there were numerous individuals and groups of a non-Wiccan flavor that rallied around the campaign. They knew that with the approval of one such symbol there would eventually be the approval of other symbols. And we have seen that with the recent addition of Mjölnir and Awen. These groups and individuals worked together despite some of their differences. But bridges are hard to build and even harder to maintain. It has been said that Martin Luther King, Jr. believed that twenty percent of his work was activism while eighty percent was dealing with internal divisions within the movement. Even worse, the collapse of a bridge often leaves such a mess of debris that what was once a bridge is now replaced by something more intimidating than empty space: a wall. And while bridges allow us to connect, to unify, to strengthen ourselves and our entire movement through solidarity, walls do the exact opposite. They block us from, not only working together, but from even accurately perceiving what is happening on the other side. But turn over any American coin, and you will see the words “e pluribus unum” — meaning “from many, one” — stamped in metal. That motto represents the centrality of diversity to the American experiment — the thesis that a society forged from disparate parts will ultimately be the strongest. Political Activism There is no such thing as neutrality in the face of oppression, but they also know how hard it is for people to resist if there is no obvious resistance movement for them to be a part of. It is important that individuals speak up for what they believe in and join with others that share common beliefs. But the sheer nature of Pagan spirituality is that it allows for people’s differences to have a place within the community dialog. It is about seeing our difference paradoxically as the real defining characteristic of Pagan community. Diversity within Paganism has led us to an understanding that people have different views of reality. Unfortunately, a lot of Pagans do not extend this diversity of viewpoint to politics and instead choose to adopt a confrontational us-versus-them attitude. I have seen and heard the motto “if you’re not with us, then you’re against us” used on numerous occasions. Facebook threats are posted by those who say that if you do not share their same beliefs, then you should unfriend them. While this is the reality of dealing with passionate people in a desperate cause, divisions can only be healed and addressed if we talk. But it is important to not assume you know where people are coming from—or that it’s your role to ‘educate’ them. Listening well, staying curious and open to challenge when you feel uncomfortable or morally ‘right’ is like walking a tightrope. It’s easy to become over-focused on how to ‘convince’ the other person and hear only what you expect to hear. To disrupt this habitual thinking, try listening from a “position of not knowing.’ Learn the technique of “Active Listening.” All people, even those whose opinions you don’t fully understand, deserve respect. I believe that diversity encourages Pagans to not only be activists, but also “reflectivists.” There must be a little part of you that acknowledges doubt, ambiguity and uncertainty. You must acknowledge that “I do not think that I know what I do not know” (Socrates, Apology 50). You also need to understand that in a diverse environment, people might have different political viewpoints and you should try to seek some understanding with them rather than reject them outright. Conclusion You too can become a conscious activist, change agent, and bridge builder. Reject the narrative that there is more that divides us than unites us. The stuff that we see every day on our social networks sometimes makes us doubt the value of a diverse world. But with an open mind and an open heart each individual involved can learn from one another and expand their own horizons. They can realize, they can comprehend, they may even grok it. We are part of the ongoing creation of the universe, and our power is the Creative Power of the Universe working through us and we all have a creative job to do. We are all in this job together. Let’s go to work, as consciously in tune and together as we can manage.
The spark of transformation
by Sam Shryock
I know there is strength in the differences between us. I know there is comfort, where we overlap. - Ani DiFranco
Image Credit: JS Groves
Sam Shryock practices Wiccan Spirituality and is a 3rd Degree High Priest within the Correllian-Nativist Tradition. He is the host of the KCWMU Kansas Coffee Coven, and previous local coordinator for Kansas City Pagan Pride Day. You can contact him at sunflowertemple@gmail.com
It is never too late to give up your prejudices - Henry David Thoreau
Element - Earth Kabbalistic Path - Teth
Image Credit: Wikipedia
by Carrie Johnson
Strength
In the Cards
I’m Carrie Johnson and am a Transformational Coach specializing in spiritual teaching, intuitive card reading, and diving into the dark shadows that most people are afraid to see. I hold a Master’s Degree in psychology and a Life Coaching certification, and I run my business primarily online. I live in Overland Park with my 3 kids, 1 life partner, 2 cats, 1 dog, 1 tarantula, and 1 hermit crab. My hobbies include macramé and calligraphy. Find me on Facebook anytime if you would like to work with me!
Number - VIII Sign - Leo Planet - Sun
When we think of “Strength” we often picture the version that society has burned in our brain. You know, the muscular male getting buff in the gym, or the quintessential fireman blasting his way through the burning building. But in the world of Tarot, the Strength card brings quite the opposite. This card is all about feminine energy, and balance. The inner strength that permeates the soul and brings peace to our overwhelmed minds. The wild carnal energy that possesses us all needs the opposing feminine energy to balance itself out with poise, grace, and above all else, the worthiness life’s challenges can demand of us. The Strength card encourages you to look within and recognize any situations that you feel are spiraling out of control. How are you coping with these situations? When things are completely in balance you will feel the inner turmoil release in most areas of your life. This card can point to struggles in any relationships that need compassion and understanding; otherwise leaving the situation may benefit you and be the only solution. Taking a look at your finances, where do you place your energy when it comes to success? You can release the emotional attachment to money, because it is really all about your energy towards money that can call it in or keep it at bay. In your career, you may be feeling like taking risks or making rash decisions; think about curbing your impulse in this area. And lastly with your family you may be finding emotions running high, and someone you look up to may be struggling. If you remember the inner strength and balance that this card brings, you can find a way to call up the best method for you to temper this perceived upheaval in your current situation. If you look at the image on the card, you see a woman taming a lion. She is fearless and calm, while the lion allows her to do what is needed. Imagine how your life could be if you tamed your own inner lion.
by Sylvia Martin
Wild Messengers Alchemical Tarot Review
In The Cards
I admit it, I am a Kickstarter addict. I am also addicted to animal decks, so when I saw one that was combined with tarot and had some really nice artwork, I couldn’t click “back it” fast enough. Pickett’s Wild Messengers Alchemical Tarot deck/book set is my latest acquisition. I backed this deck last year and it was delivered a couple of months ago. Both parts are fantastic in quality, look, and design, but the guidebook is the best part. Honestly the book could almost be a stand alone, but more on that later. The deck is packaged in a nice quality two-piece hard box that has a holographic finish. The cards themselves have a lovely feel that is a little stiffer than some cards, and the backs are reversible and they have a snakeskin style pattern that is actually textured. They are slightly oversized cards, but not too big that the size hinders shuffling. This deck could have gone with a smaller size since the illustrations are uncluttered and clear. Each card has the image of the animal, the suit, number, and in the case of the Majors, the keyword. Most of the Majors’ names have been changed; for example, Empress is Gaia, Chariot is Journey, Death is Rebirth, Tower is Initiation. Most of the changes tend to make sense. Pickett stated she wanted the cards to use gender neutral wording as well, which also shows in the Court changes; Page is Seeker, Knight is Initiate, Queen is Teacher, and King is Master. The Ace card is renamed Soul, which I really like, as the first card in a suit has always set an overall tone of that suit for me. In general the deck follows the Rider-Waite system, with Air = Swords, Fire = Wands, Water = Cups, and Earth = Pentacles. The challenge is assigning an animal to that tarot meaning. I feel like she does an admirable job of doing that. One thing that does seem to differ from most decks is the Air/Swords suit is not made up of solely flyers. There are also two bonus mythical wild cards; Gryphon and Dragon. The book is the star of this set. It would be a terrific book all on its own. It is a 368-page, hardbound book with the same holographic finish as the deck box. I was pleased to see that the images of the animals in the book are present for all the cards, and also in full color. The book is split into pretty traditional sections: majors, minors of each suit, and spreads. This book gives you a few bonus sections that add to the depth of your journey with these cards. Pickett has included a really nice section on Alchemy, that explores the seven Alchemical stages. Each major arcana card is tied to a stage in the Alchemical process. There is a lovely section on Animal Messengers in the Wild which I think was a fantastic addition. Each of the minor cards has 2-3 pages dedicated to it which include an Invocation, Animal Speaks section, and a more detailed description. There are also a couple of key phrases for a quick reference. The Majors have all of the above in a bit more detail along with exercises, journaling prompts, craft, or other project which helps you really dive deep into that Animal’s message. This deck is one I would recommend to anyone. As a tarot deck it is probably an intermediate + level. However, it can easily be used as an animal oracle deck, and just sort of push aside the tarot connections if you so choose. With all the invocations and more that are included, this would make a fantastic spark for meditation, journaling, and self-exploration in general. I can honestly say this deck, with its well-researched and thought-out depth, and thoughtful finishing touches, is the top deck I have purchased in the last couple of years. Since receiving it, I haven’t used any other deck considering this one gives such clear and insightful readings. This deck with book is available on the website wildmessengers.com for $66. Even if they find a large publisher to mass produce this deck, I would still get this deck/book set NOW. I would be surprised if a mass produced deck would have the book as large or some of the unique touches, like the textured backs.
Overall: 4 out of 5 Spirals Cardstock Quality: High Card Size: Slightly Oversize Book/Booklet Quality: Excellent Collectibility: Potential Reader Level: Intermediate + Where to Find It: wildmessengers.com
Image Credit: Wild Messengers Facebook
Sylvia is the co-founder and co-organizer of the KC Metaphysical Fair, and KC Holistic Wellness Fair (see Facebook for info). She has over 15 years experience as a tarot and oracle reader. You can connect with her at soulquestkc@gmail.com.
Lower Chakras
Fire Agate
by Jessica Barnes
warmth
Stability
Protection
Crystal Corner
Fire agate, also called Chalcedony, is a member of the quartz family. It has a reddish-brown base color, and can include streaks of orange, red, yellow, green, and gold. This is because of the iron oxide that is created from the Schiller effect. Fire agate is a semi-precious gemstone that is found naturally in some areas of central and northern Mexico and the southwestern United States, including New Mexico, Arizona, and California. It was originally formed 24 to 36 million years ago from volcanic activity during the tertiary period. The stone has many magical properties. Like all agate it honors the mother goddess Gaia. In some ancient religions it is seen as sacred to fire deities because of its colors and physical properties. During the time of alchemy, it was used to try and turn things to gold since it is said to have the essence of fire. In more modern times it has many uses. It is used to awaken the lower three Chakras and can also awaken a person's inner life force, creativity and sexuality. It is said to help people to take risks and to help them to go after their deep desires. When it is worn it is said to stimulate attraction between partners or potential partners. The warm properties of the stone also promote stability and maturity. This can be seen by helping one to stop the urge to seek out things we only want but don’t need. It also helps to balance those with busy schedules and multiple commitments, which in our hectic, modern world makes it sound like a stone we should all have in our possession!
Jessica is a mother of three human children, a rabbit, and two cats. She enjoys reading, water activities, attempting to grow plants, crystals, and learning about her spiritual self.
Image Credit: Free Stock Photos
JFlynn is a novelist, artist, lover of nature, and mother to a beautiful blue-eyed boy. As a social service servant, she gives youth who have gotten into legal trouble much needed skills to become successful. She also teaches ESL to Chinese students part-time and volunteers for Kansas City Pet Project.
Tagetes erecta, better known as marigold, is a species of Tagetes native to Mexico and a relative of the sunflower. This species of marigold is arguably the most known species, due to its popular influence in cultural exhibitions revolving around Dia de los Muertos. With their groups of small round yellow to red-orange heads, these flowers are hard to miss or mistake. These striking beauties are hardy plants, as well, growing in nearly any climate across Central America. They grow best in summer and fall, flowering fully throughout this period. Marigolds are known for their connection to the dead and are even called flor de muertos, or “flower of the dead”. It is noted in “Witchipedia” that Marigold means “pain and grief,” signifying the comfort for those grieving. Aztec art featured marigolds in many works, including a monolith of a goddess with a headdress made of marigolds. She was known as a sovereign goddess of death. In the culinary world, marigold is a refreshing additive to salads and can be used in teas. It can also be used in medicine to treat a large array of ailments: eye diseases due to age-related concerns; stomach pains like diarrhea, colic, and indigestion; respiratory ailments such as flu, nasal congestion, and bronchitis; gynecological problems, and intestinal concerns- including parasites! As an essential oil, marigold is a great antioxidant. Magically, this wonder plant attracts luck in legal matters, respect, and admiration. If carried in pouches, it can provide protection and attract love. If eaten, it can strengthen love and draw wealth. Use in a bath to dissolve a heavy heart.
Ease Greif
Marigold
Love
Flower of the Dead
by JFlynn
Luck
Gifts of Gaia
by Balder Bloodaxe
Anybody depending on somebody else’s gods is depending on a fox not to eat the chickens. - Zora Neale Hurston
An old fox Understands the Trap
Beltane had passed and Midsummer was not far off. The days were longer than the nights now, and I was spending more time outside, especially at night. The Wights were trying, as always, to influence The One, but I was doing my job, and they couldn’t do him any harm. It was a Sunday, around noon, and while I would normally be inside asleep, on this day I was outside. The One had made a small fire in a bowl in the fireplace. Then He had burned some Dragon’s Blood and some slips of paper. The papers bore symbols which I didn’t understand. But, I don’t like the smell of Dragon’s Blood burning, so I scratched at the door until he let me out. One would think that after Sigurd’s run-in with Fafnir, and all the grief that followed, the Others would stay away from Dragon’s Blood. But that’s their business, I guess. I sat in my normal place on the stoop, on my favorite mat. It was soft without being squishy, and the design was a beautiful mashup of red and gold. I listened. I licked myself. I listened some more. I heard the wind. I heard the birds’ incessant chitter-chatter. You’d think that birds would have more important things to do than repeat the same stinking thing over, and over again … but apparently they don’t, because it’s the same every day, and worse around sun-up. And the Squirrels! Yappity, yappity, yappity! And it’s all rubbish! Not a single thing they say makes any sense! They just make noise because they can’t stand peace-and-quiet. Overgrown Mice, is all THEY are. And you KNOW how I feel about Mice! Then something changed! First the wind died down. Then the leaves in the trees quit moving. The wind had been blowing in from the South, warm and fragrant and smelling like Bay. But now things were still. For a long moment there was nothing. No sound. No smell. And then I caught a whiff of something. Ever so faint. It was a scent that I’d never smelled before. It was like Dog, but less stupid. Like if a Dog’s scent were mixed with a Cat’s! Out of the corner of my eye, I saw a brief flash of color. A bit of orange mixed with red. I’d never seen anything like that before. And it was FAST! REALLY fast! I got off the stoop and gave chase. Down past two dwelling places into the hard-sided river. The river bed was dry, so I didn’t mind going in. And as I followed, the scent got easier to track. Up and over a fence I climbed. Then I dove between the broken pickets of another. I scrambled up a tree in a neighboring yard when suddenly I was overwhelmed by the stench! That stupid-Dog-with-a-little-bit-of -Cat odor! Again, out of the corner of my eye I see a red-orange flash, and it’s headed for The One’s backyard! I leap from the tree and charge after the Stinking Thing. And then, just before I reach my home turf, I see it! Or to be precise, I see THEM! There were three of them! Orange and red and white and black. Beautiful to look at, in spite of their stench. One of them about my size and the other two smaller. They ran around with their noses in the dirt, like Dogs on the hunt. But these were no Dogs! I’ve seen plenty of Dogs, and while these things ran on four legs and had snouts and a tail, they were clearly not Dogs. They were too small and their tails were bushy! As I watched from the neighbor’s yard, suddenly I heard a voice in my head. It was the Black & White from 3 dwellings down chiming in on the Neighborhood Cat Group. “Anybody else see those Foxes? They were in my yard a while ago, but now they’re gone.” Then the Ginger from across the street answered, “Yeah, they’re across the street. If anyone else sees them, have a care! They’re Trickster Spirits – don’t trust them. I’d sooner trust a Dog than a Fox. Just sayin!” Foxes, of course! That’s why they smell like a mix of Cat and Dog! The three Foxes hopped over the fence into The One’s backyard and began racing around wildly! At first I couldn’t tell what they were doing. They looked like a bunch of crazy things! And then I saw it – they were cornering a Squirrel. What happened next doesn’t bear description, but suffice it to say that there was one fewer chattering nut-muncher after all was said and done. I don’t know what to think about having Foxes in the neighborhood. They don’t work with the same Gods as me. Not that they have to. I’m not the kind of Cat who thinks that everyone has to believe what I believe. And if they don’t pose any harm to The One, then I say “let sleeping Dogs lie.” Well, that’s not true, I NEVER say that! If I run across a sleeping Dog, you can bet your bottom dollar I’m gonna harass that puppy! But you know what I mean … “Let every Fox take care of its own tail.” They say that when a red Fox shows up, it’s time to tackle life with a passion! I feel like I’ve always tackled life with a passion – especially where those Wights are concerned. It’s my duty to protect The One. And if he is burning Dragon’s Blood and sending messages into the Wind, then maybe He is looking for a change. Maybe He is feeling like He could ramp up His passion for Life. I dunno. He talks to me a lot, but really doesn’t say much. But I’m gonna protect The One. Even if it means taking on 3 Foxes.
Image Credit: Balder Bloodaxe
by K. Simmons
Out of the Cauldron
Ingredients - 1.5 oz olive oil - 1.5 oz butter (I've used my vegan Earth Balance butter in this and it's just fine!) - 6 oz cane sugar + 1 oz aside - 4 oz warm water, at least 115 degrees F - 1 pinch of saffron (6 or 7 threads?) - 1 egg, room temperature - 9 oz AP flour - 1 oz cornstarch - 1 tsp baking powder - 1/2 tsp vanilla paste - A fat pinch of kosher salt - 1/2 c almond milk (you may use dairy milk or hemp milk if you like) For the Saffron Syrup - 1 c water - 1 c cane sugar - 1 small pinch saffron, 3-4 threads
Saffron Pound Cake
Image Credit: K. Simmons
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F and prepare a loaf pan with pan spray and flour. This cake likes to climb, so please do allow it to do so! Prepare the Saffron syrup first. Bring your sugar and water to a boil, then turn off the heat. Immediately add the saffron threads and cover your pot and leave it alone. This will be your simple syrup. For the cake, take your saffron threads, tone ounce of cane sugar, and grind them with a mortar and pestle, then add it to the warm water. Let this sit for five minutes, then add to the milk of your choice, with vanilla. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. Using the whisk attachment of your stand mixer, whip the butter, oil, and 6 oz of sugar together. Start on medium, moving to high, until it's fully incorporated. Add the whole egg, scrape, and then whip. You'll want it to be homogeneous and light-colored, not clumpy or separated at all. Scrape the bowl one more time and gather your remaining ingredients. Spoon the flour mixture in, about a third at a time, alternating with a glug or two of the liquids. You're going to want to do it in this order: 1. Spoon in flour. 2. Add liquid 3. Mix for five or six turns. 4. Spoon in flour. 5. Add liquid. 6. Mix for five or six turns. 7. Spoon in the remaining flour. 8. Mix by hand to incorporate. 9. Add the last bit of liquid and scrape the bowl, especially getting the bottom. 10. Mix for five or six turns. This way of mixing cakes of this nature has served me best. Knock batter off the whisk attachment, scrape the bowl and give it one final stir. Scrape it into your loaf pan, give it a shake to make sure all of the batter is level, and pop it in the oven. Immediately lower your oven temperature to 350 degrees and bake for about 40 minutes, or until it pulls gently away from the sides of the pan and springs back when touched gently. Evacuate from the oven and place on a tea towel. Take a skewer or toothpick and poke all over the surface of the cake, going to the bottom-third of your cake. While it's still warm, take a spoon and drizzle in the saffron syrup, at least a shot's worth. Let the cake cool for at least 15 minutes before turning out onto a rack and allow to cool completely.
K. Simmons is an eclectic Wiccan with a passion for gardening, cooking, and helping others. They have lived in Kansas City for 10 years.
Ingredients - 2 tablespoons of one or a combination of the following: witch hazel or vodka - 2 tablespoons of one or a combination of the following: grapeseed oil, jojoba oil, almond oil, olive oil, or neem oil (which contains natural insecticidal compounds) - ½ teaspoon vodka as a preservative (if not already using) - 100-110 drops essential oils
Homemade Mosquito Repelling Spray
Instructions - Add carrier liquids to a small spray bottle - Add essential oils and shake well before each use. Natural bug repellent will need to be reapplied every few hours for maximum effectiveness.
Notes and Tips This is a great recipe to bring to all of your summer festivals, public rituals, outdoor events, or even on a hike. Check dollar stores, discount stores, or you're own cabinet for inexpensive spray bottles.
Essential Oils - 55 drops lemon eucalyptus essential oil (Reported by the CDC to be a good natural substitution for DEET in repelling insects but not recommended for use on children under 3 yrs.) - 15 drops cedarwood essential oil - 15 drops lavender essential oil - 15 drops rosemary essential oil
contemplative Crone
“Simple is her aim; to be a candle that lightens the world with the name of the Beloved.” - Mahrukh Memon
with Laurie Sherman
Candle magic is one of the simplest forms of spell casting. It doesn’t require a lot of fancy ritual or expensive ceremonial artifacts. In other words, anyone with a candle can cast a spell. After all, remember when you were a child and you made a wish before you blew out the candles on your cake? The birthday-candle ritual is based on three key magical principles: 1. Decide on a goal; 2. Visualize the end result; 3. Focus your intent, or will, to manifest that result. Candle magic works on basically the same principles. only now instead of just hoping, you're declaring your intent (and by now you've probably stopped hoping for a pony). What Sort of Candle Should I Use? Most practitioners of Witchcraft will tell you, much like a few other aspects of life, size really isn't important. In fact, really big candles can actually be counterproductive. A candle that takes too long to burn down can be frustrating to someone working a spell that instructs you to wait until the candle burns out on its own. Typically, a short taper (often referred to as a party chime candle), or a votive candle generally work the best. The little menorah candles, which are sold by the box in the kosher section of the grocery store, work great in a pinch. They're about 4" long, white, unscented, and thin, perfect for spell work. In some cases, a spell might call for a specific type of candle, such as a seven-day candle or a candle in a specific shape, which may represent a particular person or subject matter. You should always use a brand new candle for spell work. Don't use the candles that you burned at the dinner table, or in the bathroom yesterday for spell work. In some magical traditions, once a candle is burned it picks up vibrations from things around it, tainting the candle with random energy, which can lead to a negative or ineffective magical outcome. When it comes to colors, you may wish to have a variety on hand for different magical purposes. It is always good to plan ahead, and some candle colors can be challenging to find. Keeping a watch out for seasonal buys, like pastel colored and egg shaped candles around Easter, or skull shaped candles around Halloween can mean a huge score for your magical cupboard. Typically, color correspondences for candle magic are as follows: - Red: Courage and health, sexual love and lust - Pink: Friendship, romantic love - Orange: Attraction and encouragement - Gold: Financial gain, business endeavors, solar connections, divine Masculine. - Yellow: Persuasion and protection - Green: Financial gain, abundance, fertility - Light Blue: Health, patience and understanding - Dark Blue: Depression and vulnerability - Purple: Ambition and power - Brown: Earth-related or animal-related workings - Black: Negativity and banishment - Silver: Reflection, intuition, lunar connections, divine Feminine - White: Purity and truth* (*Note that in many Pagan traditions, it is acceptable to use a white candle in place of any other color.) Preparing Your Candle After you've selected a candle, some spells may call for you to oil it or dress it before burning. This is a method by which you'll establish a psychic link between you and the candle itself, charging the candle with your own energy as well as projecting your intent into the wax before you burn it. It will also remove any residual energy left over on the candle from being in the store, or hanging out in you spell cupboard. Some practitioners like to use grapeseed to dress their candles because it has no smell, and the energy of the oil is generally neutral. Some spells may call for a specific essential oil to be used. There are also special candle magic oils (money drawing, etc) you can generally find at one of the local Occult supply stores. Think about the intent of your spell, and choose from there. To dress the candle, begin at the top of the candle, and rub the oil downward to the middle. Then, begin at the base of the candle and rub the oil up towards the middle, ending where the first coating of oil left off. In some traditions, the anointing is done just the opposite way, starting in the middle and work your way towards the two ends. Whatever feels right for you will work. Some spells may call for you to inscribe words, symbols or sigils on your candle. I find that a small gauge crochet hook actually works pretty well for this. You may want to do this before you dress your candle just so it won’t be sliding around in your hands. If your working calls for herbs to be used as well, roll the oiled candle in the dried, crushed herbs until it is coated all the way around. Pretty much any herb whose energy matches your magical intent can be used. However, make sure you look at the properties of the herb first, as some can be toxic or hallucinogenic when burned. Proper ventilation should also be used, and you may want to temporarily turn off your smoke detector (speaking from experience). Basic Candle Spell Example One of the most basic forms of candle magic uses a piece of colored paper that matches the intent of your candle. Decide what your goal is, and write it on a piece of paper. For example, let's say we're going to do a money spell. Because this is a money-oriented working, we will select either a gold or green piece of paper, and a candle of the same color. As you write down your goal, visualize yourself achieving that goal. Think about the different, practical ways in which your goal might manifest. Stay away from things like trying to manifest winning the lottery, and go for something more realistic. Keep the dollar amount within reason as well. The best way to set up a money spell is with a specific goal and dollar amount in mind, like $300 for your next vacation. Write your specific goal on the piece of paper. Once you've written down your goal, fold the paper, concentrating on your intent the whole time. Some people like to say a small incantation as they do this. If you're one of those people, this is a good place to do it. It doesn't have to be anything fancy. You can just state your purpose out loud, or you can use something as simple as: “Extra money come my way, I could use a little cash today. Extra money come to me, As I will, so it shall be.” Place one corner of the folded paper into the candle's flame and allow it to catch fire. Hold the paper as long as possible (without burning your fingers) and then place it in a fire-safe bowl or cauldron to burn the rest of the way on its own. Allow the candle to burn out completely. When the candle has burned out completely, dispose of it (again, do not reuse candles!) and the ashes from your spell. Usually there's not much left of a candle except a stub of wax, and you can bury it outdoors somewhere. Candle magic spells are generally some of the simplest to construct and use. Lighting a candle and focusing on a specific desire cross time, cultures and religious practices. It is also a great way to practice honing your Witchcraft skills, as well as your ability to sharpen your focus, making it great for beginners. Wherever you may be in your magical practices, candle magic is a classic for of spellcasting versatile enough to cover whatever you may be needing.
Blessings, Urban Crone
To light a candle is to cast a shadow - Ursula K. LeGuin
Living passionately, dancing happily, loving intimately. -Rebecca Knight
It can be as simple as sitting in the sunlight, soaking up the energy, lighting a candle and gazing into the flame, or have a bonfire and dancing around and playing with the energy. -Yvonne Morris
My element sign -Kathy Matney Bland
How do you connect with Fire?
I love to approach the community fires at festivals and soak up the energy, along with the heat, of those bonfires which are lovingly created and celebrated by so many magickal people! -Katarina Elaine
Dancing around it, gazing at it as a meditation, burning stuff, cooking -Gwen Fisher
Feel its light in my soul -Mathew Duttenhefer
Meditation -Willie Bruner
Dancing wildly, of course! -Valerie Hall
Community Voices
It's my favorite color. And really makes my life take off when I theme my altar around it. -Jessica Snyder
I light a match, and go forth from there -Shandril Oc Arran
I absolutely love fire. As an air sign, I used to feel I influenced fire. Ha! In reality, it influences me. It moves and dances deep inside me... the movements it stirs in my spirit cause me to respond in kind, and so our conversation begins. Once I've connected with it, I'm able to "see" my direction and answers. Fire is quite powerful for me. So much so, there have been times I've wanted to step in and be bathed by it. -Shana M Schmidt
It speaks to me. Trust and boundaries -Amanda Glowbird Zapper
Dancing around it -Lani Kai Kyoko
Bookshelf
Pele: The Fire Goddess by Dietrich Varez, Pua Kanaka'ole Kanahele
Egyptian Book of the Dead: The Book of Going Forth by Day by Ogden Goelet, Raymond Faulkner, Carol Andrews, J. Daniel Gunther, James Wasserman
Practical Elemental Magick: A Guide to the Four Elements in the Western Esoteric Tradition by Sorita d'Esta
Wicca Candle Magic by Lisa Chamberlain
Llewellyn's Complete Book of Correspondences & Cross-Referenced Resources for Wiccans and Pagans by Sandra Kynes
The Complete Illustrated Encyclopedia of Magical Plants: Revised by Susan Gregg
Aeclectic Tarot Website
Wild Messengers Alchemical Tarot
September 6, 2019
Our theme for the Fall Equinox issue will be Ancestors and Spirits. We are looking for your articles, artwork, pictures, and input for this topic. Absolutely anything regarding Ancestors or Spirits. How do you work with them? What kind of spirits? What kind of Ancestors? How do they affect your practice? Whatever ideas you have, we would love to see them. If you need some direction, feel free to contact us at the email below. Send all of your submissions to
Fall Equinox 2019
Ancestors and Spirits form a core of many different practices. We would love to see some out of the box ideas for articles and some varied information on any kind of practice involving Ancestors and Spirits. We will also publish any big community announcements and upcoming events. Also remember, we cover from the Summer Solstice to the Fall Equinox with this issue, and anything seasonal is always welcome! Deadline for this issue is
Ancestors and Spirits
thecenterspiral@gmail.com
The Center Spiral Staff Laurie Sherman Luna Motherowl Emaleth Summer Mike Nichols Audrey Hazzard Emily Gabbert
JS Groves Catherine Boudreau Kevros Nocte Arlin Pacheco Tammy Stipe Lesley Ravenhair D. Ackerman Shandril Oc Arran Sam Shryock Carrie Johnson Sylvia Martin Jessica Barnes JFlynn Balder Bloodaxe K. Simmons
The Center Spiral Staff would like to give a huge Thank You to all of our contributors. We are thrilled to feature the hard work, expertise, creatvitiy, and knowledge of our community. The Center Spiral would not be what it is without your contributions. Thank you for helping us educate, inspire, and connect.
Contributors
thecenterspiral@gmail.com thecenterspiral.blogspot.com facebook.com/thecenterspiral
An extra special Thank You to The Center Spiral staff. This would not have happened without the help of all of you. You are all an amazing inspiration, team of support, and integral in making this become a reality and continue to grow. Thank you. -Emily Gabbert
We appreciate the support of all of those contributing articles, images, creative works, time, editing, advertising, sharing, and moral support while we put together our magazine. We could not do it without you. - The Center Spiral Staff -
Thank you!!
