Kansas City Witches Meetup Presents
Gathering with gratitude
Summer Solstice 2018
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 Full Moons Festival Season Finding your Pagan People Laurie Sherman Luna's Lair Advice Column Deity Cafe Dionysus Pomona 10 Reasons to Give Offerings Marietta Williams Songs of the Season with Mike Nichols Musecraft Sandy Leppin Pencraft S. P. Manning Open Yourself to Abundance: A Challenge Katarina Elaine In the Cards The Emporer Dark Carival Tarot Crystal Corner Petrified Wood Gifts of Gaia Sage Thankful For the Earth Hekaterine Nox Out of the Cauldron Heavy Hitter Elemental Powder Summer Grilled Pasta Salad Litha Light and Dark Lily Decker Contemplative Crone from the Urban Crone Community Voices Quotes from a Question Bookshelf Advertising Next Issue Elements: Earth cONTRIBUTORS Thank you
Table of Contents
Cover Image: Emily Gabbert
Image Credit this page: Ripley Herndon
Letter from the Editor
When choosing the theme for this issue, I had a couple of things in mind. First of all, we are starting harvest season. While we did a harvest theme with our first issue, it fit with the journey we’ve been on. A bit of a recall to our first issue also seemed a good way to celebrate our one year anniversary of publication! Second, the journey we have been on has taken us through the darkness of shadow, finding our spark and rekindling our fire with it, sowing our seeds and, finally, with this issue, reaping the fruits of what we have sown. In gathering those fruits, we need to show our gratitude for what we have gained in the process, as well as what we have lost, and what has changed. A theme of gratitude in the midst of summer seems a light, easy-going issue to put together. However, looking around at my friends, my community, and the world as a whole, there is a lot going on that is difficult to be positive or gracious about. The world appears to be coming apart at the seams and many people seem to be going through issues that are turning their lives upside down. These are indeed tower times, and though it may be difficult, this is when we need gratitude the most. Having and expressing gratitude for those who support us and sustain us is how we keep from losing hope. Hope is what keeps us going through the difficulties. Hope is the last gift at the bottom of Pandora’s box. Amongst all the ills and difficulties, hope remains. However, the people and the little things are not all we need to have gratitude for. As we discuss in the issue ahead, we need to show gratitude for the Gods and spirits we work with as well. We ask for their help in turbulent times, we talk to them, we work with them spiritually and magically in attempts to turn things around and find our way through. Showing our gratitude to them through offerings, prayers, and actions strengthens our relationships with them as well as our craft and our spirituality. Gratitude and hope build connections to our community, our world, our loved ones, and our Gods. We sustain and strengthen these connections with gracious and compassionate communication. Not only do we survive this way, but we thrive. We hope you will find, in the pages ahead, not only some tools for keeping up hope, but a bit of levity for the load you carry. We hope to bring you a touch of light in dark times, education to help you through, and some inspiration to connect to the people, spirits, and things to rebuild your tower with greater stability.
Emily Gabbert Editor
Luna Motherowl 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.
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.
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.
The Center Spiral Staff
Marietta Williams is the writer behind Witchy Words: A Witchcraft Blog, a popular online witchcraft resource, and the Circle Coordinator and founder of Circle of Fountains, a local Kansas City coven. A nontheistic witch with emphasis in spiritwork, shadow work and Hermeticism, she's partnered with Pagan Bloggers, Sabbat Box and Cratejoy among others and regularly volunteers as a photographer for the Kansas City pagan community. When not blogging, Marietta works as a professional caricaturist for the KC metro.
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.
June 21st – Happy Litha/ Summer Solstice! June 28th – Full (Strong Sun, Rose, Partner, Mead, Green Corn, Strawberry, Dyad) Moon in Capricorn – Focus on abundance, love, relationships, and prosperity. July 13th – New Moon in Cancer July 27th – Full (Blessing, Hay, Buck, Herb, Horn, Summer) Moon in Capricorn – Perfect time for dream work, fire magic, divination, and meditations on strength and purpose. August 1st – Lughnasadh/Lammas Blessings! August 11th – New Moon in Leo August 26th – Full (Corn, Barley, Sturgeon, Fruit, Wort) Moon in Pisces - Time for workings in animal magic, prophecy, and wisdom. September 9th – New Moon in Virgo September 21st – Blessed Mabon/Autumn Equinox Retrogrades MERCURY - Retrograde – July 26th Goes Direct – August 19th MARS – Retrograde – June 26th Goes Direct – August 27th JUPITER - Goes Direct – July 10th SATURN - Goes Direct – September 6th URANUS - Retrograde – August 7th NEPTUNE - Retrograde – June 18th PLUTO - Between Retrograde and Direct Luna Mother Owl
From the Stars
by Luna Motherowl
Emaleth Summer is a pagan author and has been a practicing witch for 22 years. She has been becoming more active in the community, and will be hosting the South Kansas City Coffee Coven for KCWMU.
Full Moons
by Emaleth Summer
Turn of the Wheel
The full moon is a powerful time to perform magick of nearly any kind. As the moon waxes it brings us those things which we most desire, and as it wanes it takes away those things we wish to be banished from our lives. When the moon is full it is complete. It is the culmination of everything we are striving for. The time of the full moon is the time when all things are possible. Of course, there are some things to consider when planning your rites for the full moon. The full moon, like other celebrations of the wheel of the year, lends itself to different types of magick depending on the season. Another thing to consider is the sign that the moon is in at the time, and what magicks that sign rules over/ Use the following guide to plan your rites for the full moons for the next quarter. “She used to tell me that a full moon was when mysterious things happen and wishes come true.” -Shannon A. Thompson, November Snow July 27: Meadow Moon The July full moon is sometimes called the Meadow Moon, or the Blessing Moon. The Farmer’s Almanac calls it the Full Buck Moon, because Native American cultures note that the bucks have full antlers by the time of this moon. It is a good time for counting your blessings and thinking of ways to bring further blessings into your life. This moon is good for divination, meditation, and dreamwork. The full moon in July will be in Aquarius. This is a good time for spells involving innovation. Rites involving freedom and creative expression are appropriate, as are spells for breaking bad habits. This is also a good time for healing rituals for the calves, ankles, and blood. Correspondences: Colors - Green, Silver, Blue-gray Herbs - Lemon, Chamomile, Hyssop Stones - Moonstone, Opal, White Agate Element - Water August 26: Corn Moon With Lammas occurring in August it is no surprise that this is often referred to as the Corn Moon. It is a time for harvesting what you’ve already planted. Rites thanking the gods for what you have reaped are a good use for this moon. Rituals for health and wellness are also appropriate. The August full moon is in Pisces. The Pisces full moon is a good time for dreamwork, divination, and psychic arts. Rites of an idealistic nature or involving sensitivity are good for this moon. It is also a good time for healing rituals involving the feet or lymph glands. Correspondences: Colors - Yellow, Red, Orange Herbs - Rosemary, Basil, Catnip Stones - Tiger’s Eye, Carnelian, Red Agate. Element - Fire September 24: Harvest Moon September is a further time of harvest, lending to the name of this moon. This is a time of bounty and abundance. Continue to show thanks to the gods for all that has come to you so far this season. Rites involving hearth and home are more than appropriate for this moon. Food and kitchen magick are also appropriate. The full moon this month will be in Aries. The full moon in Aries is a time for taking action. Spells involving leadership or authority, rebirth, and willpower are appropriate for this sign. Rites to break bad habits or addictions would be appropriate. For healing rituals, this moon is a good time for healing ailments of the face, head and brain. Correspondences: Colors - Brown, Green Herbs - Wheat, Witch Hazel, Flax Seed Stones - Citrine, Peridot, Bloodstone. Element - Earth
Image Credit: Whitney Gabbert
Image Credit: Pixabay
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
KC Metaphysical Fair - Summer July 13th 4p - 10p, 14th 10a - 8p, 15th 11a - 6p Abdallah Shriners 5300 Metcalf, Overland Park, KS 66202 $8/day or 3 day pass for $18 There are workshops, door prizes, lots of shopping, and a variety of readers (be sure to bring cash for all of that!). For more information go to www.kcmetaphysical.com. Temple Scarlet July 27 - 29 Gaea Retreat Center 25110 235th St, McClouth, KS 66054 $60 full event, 18+ only Temple Scarlet is a weekend long Summer camping experience of sacred sexuality. Classes and workshops cover topics such as polyamory, sex magick, BDSM, tantra, body positivity, and intimacy in all its forms. The retreat also includes relevant vendors, healers, public ritual and evening fires. Find more information at www.templescarlet.info or the Facebook Event. Crossroads Metaphysical Fair, OKC August 25th 10a - 8p, 26th 11a - 6p Sheraton Midwest City Hotel, Reed Conference Center 5750 Will Rogers Rd, Midwest City, OK 73110 $7/day There will be workshops, door prizes, vendors, and readers from around the region. For more information, check out the OKC Crossroads Facebook Event. Kansas City pagan Pride Day September 9 10a-6p Merriam Marketplace 5740 Merriam Dr, Merriam, KS 66203 Free Admission The 20th year of KCPPD! There are vendors for food, crafts, kids activities, workshops, public rituals, info tables for many local organizations, live entertainment, charity auction and a raffle. For more information go to the Facebook Event, the Facebook Page, or www.kcppd.com. Gaea Goddess Gathering September 14-16 Gaea Retreat Center 25110 235th St, McClouth, KS 66054 $75 adult, $45 girls 6-12, 5 and under free This is an all women’s festival featuring workshops, rites of passage, rituals, entertainment, vendors, camping, revelry, and women’s fellowship. Goddess being honored this year is Hekate. For more information, check out GGG Facebook page and www.gaeagoddessgathering.org. KC Metaphysical Fair - Fall November 16th 4p-10p, 17th 10a-8p, 18th 11a-6p Abdallah Shriners 5300 Metcalf, Overland Park, KS 66202 $8/day or 3 day pass for $18 There are workshops, door prizes, lots of shopping, and a variety of readers (be sure to bring cash for all of that!). For more information go to www.kcmetaphysical.com.
by Emily Gabbert
Summer and Fall are a big time for all kinds of festivals and fairs, particularly those with pagan related themes. These are amazing ways to network in your community, make new friends, and grow current relationships. We bond with each other over camping, bonfires, rituals, workshops, revelry, and just time spent outside. The weather is, well, variable around here, but that can produce some pretty great stories. Our indoor fairs are a wonderful place to find new supplies and resources as well as meet a whole other intersecting circle of people. The festivals and fairs we attend and participate in are the big events we talk about for years to come. They are another place to educate yourself, connect with other people, and exchange inspiration face to face. In that spirit, we have compiled a list of festivals and fairs in our area, including a couple within a day’s drive. Go out to educate, inspire, connect, and enjoy your community!
Festival Season
Image Credit: Marietta Wililams
Finding your Pagan People
by Laurie Sherman
As the organizer of the Kansas City Witches, Heathens and Pagans Meetup, one of the most common questions I receive through our Meetup email, Facebook group, and public Facebook page involves finding mentors, teachers, covens, circles, and groups for people to connect to. It is natural to want to find guidance, to find people who think spiritually in a similar fashion as you, or just to find community with common interests to socialize with. There is nothing wrong with that, but there are good, safe ways to do it, and not so safe ways. Here are some pointers on starting your search for a group or mentor, no matter where you live, that won’t lead you into trouble. One of the best ways, and really the first step, to finding your tribe is to attend public events. These can be found through social websites like Meetup.com, or even classes through your local Communiversity. Most cities and some smaller towns have groups through Meetup as it is easier to maintain a protected group through there for those still in the broom closet. They will generally have a calendar of events, as well as email notification, and do not require you to be on social media. Our group maintains a page and calendar on here for those in the community that prefer to keep their spiritual lives private, and have stepped off of social media. It is natural to want to find guidance, to find people who think spiritually in a similar fashion as you, or just to find community with common interests to socialize with. You can also find classes and meetings at your local spiritual/occult shops through their social media pages. Many shops offer a wide variety of classes that are open to everyone. This gives you an opportunity to meet people in a public setting and learn something interesting. Make sure you scout out the shop first before you sign up for any class. If you are uncomfortable with the energy you find there, chances are you won’t be comfortable with any class they may offer. It never hurts to look at their reviews and do a little reconnaissance ahead of time. Social media can also be a way of finding people and public events. Local groups, covens, circles, etc, will sometimes have a Facebook group or public page, and post events.This gives you an opportunity to meet people in safe, public settings. This also gives teachers and groups a chance to meet you before inviting you in for private mentoring and meetings. Reputable circles and covens will generally hold public meet and greets, or classes in order to meet and find new members in a safe way. Social media can be a mixed bag when it comes to the type of people you may come across. It always makes me cringe when I see a person post a public post looking for a spiritual teacher/mentor. Spiritual communities of every kind have all types of people. There are, unfortunately, bad actors and predatory sects and individuals in every spiritual community looking to pounce on someone just starting out by publicly posting they are looking for a private mentor. You could end up in a bad situation. Make sure all your meet and greets, as well as events, when you first start out are public, and never give out any private information until you get to know these people. Even better, if you have a friend who is also looking, buddy up and do everything together. Better safe than sorry, no matter the situation. This can all sound scary, diving into a situation full of strangers, not knowing what to expect. However, if you follow my tips, keep to public places, buddy up where you can, and above all follow your own instincts, you will be able to safely get to know the people in your area and, with patience, find what you are really seeking. Websites like Meetup.com and social media have made it easier to find Witches, Wiccans, Heathens, and Pagans in your area than it ever was in the past. And, with some common sense, and safe thinking, it can be your key to finding your Pagan people.
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.
Luna, Recently my cousin came across a quartz she thought I would like and she bought it for me knowing I collect crystals and stones. The woman told her it was a sceptre. I have never heard of that type of crystal. Have you heard of it and what is it? Fortuna Fortuna, You have a beautiful name! You were also given a beautiful type of Quartz Crystal. A Sceptre Quartz is a naturally formed crystal and at the base is penetrated by a rod. The crystal actually formed around the rod. It is said that these crystals were used in Atlantis and Lemuria in healing ceremonies and were a symbol of power. Those who carried or wore the crystal were in a position of high priest/priestess. It is also said that the sceptre is excellent for the transmission of directional healing (especially to the heart) because it brings the spirituality of the higher planes. You were given an incredibly cool gift! Since you collect crystals and stones, I suggest an absolute must in reference guides called “Love Is In The Earth” by “Melody". It is a very thick book and it doesn’t have pictures but it is by far the most thorough reference guide on crystals, stones and minerals that I have ever found! It may be difficult to find, but I do know it is published through Earth Love. Blessings to you! Luna
Luna's Lair
“All hail Bacchus!” The cry is familiar to many in Kansas City, evoking images of drunken revelry and orgiastic mysteries. Such prurient associations have dogged Dionysus and his cults since Republican Rome. Certainly Dionysiac worshipers have engaged in such things (I do). He is Bakcheios, Of the Frenzy. Of the Grape and Of the Wine-Press. Of the Night, a title he shares with Aphrodite. But he is also The Mad. The Androgene. Of the Ivy and Of the Flowers. The Bull Eater. The Man-Slayer. The Savior. He is a god of boundaries and boundary-crossers and contradictions. He was born both mortal and divine. He was raised from the dead. He was cursed with madness, a mortal condition, and cured by initiation into the cult of Kybele. He was worshiped by women and often depicted as effeminate. Dionysus’ chief attribute is that he appears. He is the god that springs up. He comes on a whim, parading through cities and demanding that he be honored, as in Euripides’ Bacchae: the wise submit to him, performing his rites; fools, including the too-proud king, deny his divinity and are destroyed. More importantly, he comes when called. When the wine is poured or his names are spoken, the god is there. Initiates to his mysteries could count on the god to deliver them to a kinder afterlife so long as they kept their oaths. When I turned to the gods, Dionysus was the first I called and the first to answer. Yes, I do brew mead in his name, and my parties are all in his honor, but he is most dear to me as The Mad, The Androgene, the Free(ing) One, Zagreus. It is Dionysus I turn to when my brain implodes, when my heart races and all I can do is scream and cry. To me, he is the god of crazy queers, offering comfort and sanity when the world becomes too much. Light a candle and pour out wine to Dionysus. Sing his hymns. Let him come to you.
The God Who Springs Up
JS Groves is a jeweler, writer, and local lunatic who has been practicing witchcraft since 1996. He has taught classes on energy work and spirit conjuration, and has just published his debut novel. He blogs intermittently at http://journeythroughtheobsidiandream.com His novel can be found at http://mundusoccultus.com
Deity Cafe
Dionysus
Image Credit: JS Groves
by JS Groves
R. Duncan is a fourth generation herbalist and gardener who specializes in beautiful poisons, historical gardens, and anthropomorphizing plants to an almost delusional degree due to an early influence of singing Muppet vegetables.
by R. Duncan
Goddess of Abundance
The facts of Pomona are simple. From the Latin Pomum “ fruit”, Pomona is a Roman goddess of abundance and orchards. One of twelve flamines minores of the Roman Pontifical Collegate, with her own state priests and sacred grove along the main road between Rome and Ostia. She has no fixed date in ancient calendars since a day of opulent natural abundance can't be scheduled and is often wrongly associated with harvest festivals. Classified as a wood nymph, she is generally depicted with a wee pruning knife, cornucopia, and the usual sheath of gauze. The common myth of Pomona is simple. Beautiful nymph ignores male attention in favor of her orchards, building defenses to keep unwanted visitors out. Vertumnus, the god of seasonal change, in various forms “ tricks her” to gain access and as an old woman, pleads his case, and “catches her” in an embrace. And as with all Roman myths involving disguises, this equals marriage. The end. As a gardener and historian, there are two things I know for sure. You can't tend trees in the nude and beware the trappings of antiquity. Pomona is our aspect of highest growth, the fulsome pause in the breath of creation between the beginning of life and its harvest. A joyful moment of purpose fulfilled. She spent her busiest seasons being bothered by silly city gods, who break her branches in their spying, ripping blossoms off her limbs to offer as gifts. As if they had a perfect right to take or to give, a thoughtless cruel gesture disguised as affection. A working woman has no time for such nonsense and sets her brambles to work. Now Vertumnus has spent the year popping by, always with a non threatening face and a useful offering. A pail of water, a sharper scythe, a jug of wine at the end of the day. Now I don't see many women, let alone goddesses, being fooled by “disguises” like this for long. The classics are stuffed with the idea that cleverness and deception are the key to feminine sexuality and with this view a deeply practical and romantic lesson is lost. In Pomona we see patience and friendship and understanding growing with the trees to a natural coupling when mutual labors have reached their zenith. One's partner should compliment one's life, not compete for it. A true mate bolsters and builds alongside us, and should be rewarded with the best of our offerings. And I am sure in that endless summer day, with the drone of bees and the scent of her fruits, Pomona smiled at the silly disguise her love was wearing, sure of her own offerings in celebration.
Pomona
Image Credit: Pomona by Nicholas Fouche
10 Reasons to give Offerings
by Marietta Williams
Ancient Egyptians made them to appease their gods. The Greeks believed that a god wouldn't intervene on your behalf without one. Whether you're forming a new relationship with a deity or continuing a familiarship with a spirit, offerings are often essential to our practice. But why exactly do we make them? Here are 10 reasons to support giving offerings to entities in your Craft! Offerings Build Relationships As humans, we often bond over food. Our first date might be over dinner, or we might form a whole new friendship over coffee. By giving a little food and water to an entity you're wanting to make contact with, you're saying "I'm open to talk." Relationships Encourage Hospitality Once you've established a relationship, hospitality continues to build it. In the same way you offer a friend a glass of water when they come over to your house, offerings show that we are warm and receptive - and that we want that entity to return. Relationships Demand Respect It's difficult to have any kind of relationship with someone you don't respect. Offerings are our way of displaying reverence by willingly giving and sacrificing on the entity's behalf. The World Demands Exchange The entire universe runs on exchange. We give money to receive service, trade goods for goods, and pay off debts in favors. Non-corporeal relationships are no different. We're not bribing or appeasing the entity - we're simply showing that we have an understanding of how the universe works. The World can be Hostile We offer milk and honey to the Fae at Beltane and Midsummer to stay in their good graces. We offer bread and water to the Wild Hunt in the winter so that they will not take from us forcibly. In a world of hostility, attempting to propitiate an entity can work out in your favor. Protection and prevention of harm are essential to our well-being. The World can also be Kind Just as we give gifts to family and loved ones, we freely give love to patron deities and familiar spirits without expecting anything in return. This love can be shown in the form of offerings, gifts we leave for them in their name. We Must Learn our Place Within the World If we do without when we give, we often call this a sacrifice. Offerings that come at a minor personal inconvenience or loss remind us that there are less fortunate, that we often have more than we actually need, and that we sometimes want in excess. Offerings Tie us to our Roots within Society In reconstructionist, cultural, or hereditary paths, our ancestors may have made certain offerings in a timely fashion over centuries. As we take over the reins, we may create offerings as a way of maintaining those long-held agreements and relationships. Offerings Keep us Grounded in Reality Like a good exercise routine or s fixed sleep schedule, offerings can create the discipline we sometimes lack in our Craft. When we perform rites we see as necessary to our personal growth and well-being, we condition ourselves to lead our best life in all aspects. And Sometimes, We Offer Because they Ask Occasionally, it really is just that simple: The entity asked and so you give. We may or may not understand the reasoning for the request - and there may be no reason at all - but we understand that this is the way the relationship works, and so we offer. BONUS: A Word of Caution Limitations are key in getting what you want out of your practice. You should establish these boundaries early in your relationship with the non-corporeal. If the offering requested is something that goes against your morals or ethics, or against the law of the land, you probably shouldn’t pursue it. Gods and spirits can trick you into crossing lines you don’t want to cross. Do not allow that to happen. Additionally, if the offering causes you to starve, miss rent, or otherwise harm yourself, you shouldn’t do it. As the saying goes, you cannot pour from an empty cup. You cannot give what you don’t have. Never put yourself in harm’s way for an offering. Now that you're armed with purpose behind your offerings, check out this tip on low-budget offerings and this huge list of potential offerings for your non-corporeal entity. Enjoy! Other Resources: Under the Ancient Oaks: Why We Make Offerings The Druid's Garden: Sustainable Offerings Hearth Witch Down Under: How to Offer to the Gods Hearth Witch Down Under: Animal Sacrifice in Hellenism
Image Credit: Emily Gabbert
Gathering with Gratitude Playlist
Once again, it is time to not only read our publication, but to listen to it. This is our second jump into the audio dimension of our seasonal celebrations, with some enchanting accompanying videos, as well. As before, we asked our readers to contribute songs to make up a YouTube playlist, one that could be a troubadour to your rituals, help you bring in the harvest, or simply keep you company during your next meditation. Our themes this time included Autumn, Harvest, Gatherings, Abundance, Gratitude, Bounty, and even correspondences like Lion (Leo), Water (West), and Medicine (Healing). So thank you to everyone who took up the challenge to send in suggestions. And know that if your song wasn't used this time, it was placed in a holding pen for possible future use. This time of the year can be a little tricky, especially here in the Midwest, where we are still experiencing some of our hottest weather of the year and yet, once we pass the summer solstice, the nights are growing longer as the days grow shorter. The oppressive heat of a summer's day may yield to a surprisingly cool and crisp autumn night. And even after autumn is good and truly underway, we may yet be caught off guard by an autumnal heatwave the locals call "Indian Summer". All we can do is surf the thermals and enjoy the ride. One thing seems certain... it is a busy time of year for most of us, whether we are preparing to head back to school, or laboring on the farms to bring in the harvest. Maybe that is why we got fewer than half the number of songs suggested for this issue's playlist than for the last one. Nor was there an entirely separate playlist of classical music for this issue. Yet maybe that's a good thing, because last issue's playlist of 50 songs in the main list alone may have seemed a little daunting to some. In this time of heading toward the equinox, perhaps less is more. You will certainly be delighted by the range of selections, from musical styles to lyrics. The music has been carefully sequenced to provide maximum vocal and genre contrast while, at the same time, following a casual chronology from the hot days of summer to the cool days of autumn --although you can always dispense with the predetermined order and jump around the playlist in whatever way suits your fancy. We are delighted to bring you this unique section of our publication, and solicit your feedback, as well as encourage you to start thinking of tunes to suggest for our next issue.
Songs of the Season
by Mike Nichols
How did you get started in your work? I’ve always been creative in some way since I was a child, and my interests varied mainly between art, writing, and music. When I went to college, I stumbled into the world of theater and set design (similar to Alice in Wonderland, I suppose), which allowed me to meld my intensely different interests into one discipline. Scenic design required me to get proficient at a number of mediums including watercolor, acrylics, foam sculpture, model making, paper craft, and woodworking. I loved being able to learn new processes in order to tell the story we were putting up on stage. In the past several years, I have utilized the time in between shows to dive into my own personal artwork that isn’t tied to a script or have any demands on it other than what I want to express. I’m also exploring methods to incorporate my creative writing into my visual art and merge the two halves into something new.
Rowan of Three
Paris Catacombs
Musecraft
with Sandy Leppin
Obilito
Where do you pull inspiration from? The biggest sources for me include folklore and mythology, in particular Celtic, Norse, and Greek myths. I adore archaeology and often write stories on the items pulled out of the ground. I’m also slightly obsessed with Celtic sacred trees, so you’ll find a lot of trees and tree-related imagery in my work. What mediums do you work in and why? For smaller works (under 11x17) I gravitate to watercolor and pen & ink. I like the flexibility and softness they offer. For larger works up through mural sizes, I prefer acrylics because they’re easier to handle and you can rework them over multiple days or weeks. I work in black & white photography when I’m not at my desk painting.
Sycamore Tree
Cemetery Tree
What advice do you have for aspiring artists? Make time for your chosen art every single day. Sketch, draw, write, sing, basket weave – whatever it is, make the time in your life for it. You may suck, and that’s ok. The important thing is to make the space so it can flourish.
Old Magic
Where do we go to find more of your work? I am most active on Instagram. My artist page is @rookandowlstudio. I’m also on Facebook @RookAndOwlStudio. Here’s my website: rookandowlstudio.com My daily sketches on my personal Instagram page @sandyleppin. I’m in the middle of Year 2 on posting a daily sketch every single day of the year, no exceptions. Sometimes they suck, sometimes they don’t. It’s always a surprise.
S. P. Manning is a native Kansas City poet, artist, and sorcerer, who enjoys exploring the liminal place where ritual, myth, and the numinous meet.
Dimming Days the leaves twist and spin, air currents tugging them off their safe twigs dimming days yellowing their resolve until eventually they give flying briefly on the chill breeze see how I soar landing to be crunched underfoot into musty autumn smells finally the summer sleeps and I can find peace among the dead
Words from a Mountain The tablets came down from the mountain with a carrot in one hand and a stick in the other. Words were carved on their faces, curls of clay discarded because they didn’t belong, forgotten and trampled underfoot. The chisel dripped with blood as it cut soft earth, gouging holes that we filled with meaning, with tradition, with punishment. The carrot withered and desiccated; the stick glistened with the gore of its victims. Odd that clay endures so well but shatters so easily.
Pencraft
Image Credit: Calistar KB
with S. P. Manning
The Lightning Struck Tower Imposing structure, rigid and tall Sudden strike, blast of lightning Amidst the chaos burning pieces fall habits confining, high mental wall locked in old traditions stifling Imposing structure, rigid and tall inevitable change, cannot hope to forestall orders from Mars, harsh and frightening Amidst the chaos burning pieces fall comfort of thought, what is known is all the confidence of laziness, hubris breeding Imposing structure, rigid and tall struggle to cope, amongst the rubble crawl total loss, all resources fleeting Amidst the chaos burning pieces fall pain now, but someday far to recall new creativity in fresh space so freeing Imposing structure, rigid and tall Amidst the chaos burning pieces fall
Theodicity The wind blew hard, heavy and solid as it rolled across the land, pushing pendulous clouds cracking with streamers of electric white and tossing tiny drops by the ton. The wind stomped along, slapping houses and flicking trees, blissful in its spiral dance, spinning and moving on. The wind has its own agenda and cares not for the broken and drowned bodies left in its wake.
A Challenge
The season of ripe fruits and sunshine has come! People are enjoying the outdoors, feeling social, and looking on the bright side. This time of year, there is talk within spiritual communities of opening ourselves to abundance! We are all encouraging each other to dream greater dreams, alter our way of thinking, and manifest success. Yet for many people, becoming 'open to abundance' is not so simple. It can be far more of a challenge than positivity culture would have us believe. Yes, growth is a beautiful thing! But any woman experiencing her first pregnancy, or teen boy hitting a Summer growth spurt, will tell you that growing is also painful. When abundance does come to you, and when you find your desires and dreams being fulfilled, there has been a transition taking place. There has been a change. Change is difficult. One example from my life which illustrates this easily is my home. After several years of homelessness, crummy sublet rooms, and shuffling around, I found an area I wanted to settle into a bit. I worked a little house magick, started making calls, and found the one. It is an adorable two-story Victorian rental that has everything I ever wanted! People congratulated me, but I wasn't genuinely excited. A wonderful, beautiful thing was manifested into my life, and yet I felt uncomfortable. I awoke most every day for months with a queasy stomach and a surreal feeling that my house wasn't real, wasn't mine, and wouldn't last. At times I honestly wanted to return to the familiarity of crumbling crowded apartments. "The habits you created to survive will no longer serve you when it's time to thrive." -Ebonee Davis I am sharing that experience to illustrate the point that 'opening yourself to abundance' might in fact be a painful transition out of your survival mode into a thriving life. For people who have suffered harsh or demanding life situations, those beautiful opportunities becoming available seem too good to be true. Too unreal. It may feel Impossible to be joyful and accept success. If you find yourself stuck in place, unable to let great things manifest in your life, then consider the following ideas and suggestions. Nobody deserves anything. We are adults here. By now we have all experienced situations where we did everything right and still got the short end of the stick. Life is not fair. Many of us were raised with the black and white concept that hard work is equal to success and found it false. Anyone who has ever happened to hit a coyote in the road, as I have, learned in a literal and symbolic way that sometimes horrible things happen for no reason at all. However, the opposite is also true! Sometimes in life wonderful things happen for no reason at all. So if you catch yourself starting to feel guilty or unworthy of fortunate and positive things, take a little comfort in the nihilistic idea that nobody deserves anything anyway. Share and share and share. When you have abundant resources, choose to be a supporter of the people around you and help them create their dreams! At times, when I would visit my close friend who is raising a family in her two-bedroom townhouse, I would feel selfish about returning to my own new spacious home. Sharing with others shifts the focus away from yourself and turns a habit of comparison into compassion. Finding ways to offer the use of my house and space to others has made a huge difference in my personal acceptance of prosperity. Then, the wealth you have acquired becomes a gift not only to yourself but to the entire community. Be self-aware. It can be tempting to self-sabotage when unexpected success comes around. You may end up getting in your own way without realizing it. So, get to know your own survival habits and pay close attention to your feelings while you are working toward your better life. "The habits you created to survive will no longer serve you when it's time to thrive." -Ebonee Davis Remember to recognize that the process growth is often painful, and that bit of knowledge will help you find your way through the change of 'opening to abundance' into a life of actually thriving!
Open yourself to Abundance
Katarina Elaine
The Emporer
Shandril oc Arran’s path has been that of Teacher and Guide, having led Wiccan initiatory covens for the past two decades. As a witch, she is well-versed in healing, animal lore, and martial magick. Trained in both Earth-based and ceremonial systems, she is an avid reader who will pick up a book on just about any occult or Craft-related topic. A student of kung fu san soo, Shandril teaches the art with her wife through their school, Kwan Yin Temple KFSS. She is an ordained high priestess and founding member of Grove of the Winding Spiral.
Image Credit: Rider Waite Smith Deck
Number: 4 Planet: Mars Kabbalistic Path: Heh Sign: Aries Element: Fire
In balance with The Empress, The Emperor stands as the fourth card of the Major Arcana. As we move through these hot Summer months, we have a chance to take a breath, look around us at the wonders of the world, and take in the progress we have made so far. The Emperor can help us to do that. In most decks the Emperor is seated upon a throne adorned with rams’ heads to symbolize the astrological sign of Aries. Ruled by Mars, Aries is strong, masculine, powerful, and outgoing. Aries people are known to be initiators, delegating ideas and work while standing at the front of the pack. They tend to be natural leaders, and The Emperor is no different. We see him in most decks swathed in red robes, correspondent to the element of Fire, and holding the symbols of kingship - the scepter and the orb. He is confident, stoic, and represents the stability that comes with established hierarchy. The Emperor knows his place, and expects everyone else to know theirs. His are the lessons that come from experience. The Emperor often shows up in Tarot spreads as a signal of stability. Depending on where he falls in a spread, this stability may be in different parts of a person’s life, usually the material world and the relationships therein. The Emperor often represents authority in one’s life, whether it be a boss, a father, or the establishment in general. He represents structure, and because of the experience that brought him to the throne, he also reflects wisdom, fairness, and one’s Will. Use the energy of The Emperor card any time you need confidence, any time you are expected to be “on your game”. Let his fiery, charismatic Will blend with your own and shine like the Sun!
by Shandril oc Arran
In the Cards
The Dark Carnival Tarot Review
Overall: 3.5 out of 5 Wands Card stock quality: Good Card size: Good Book/Booklet Quality: Really Good (once you get past the snarky intro, lol) Collectability: Very Reader level: Reasonable understanding of Tarot symbolism and meanings. Where to find it: Dark Carnival Tarot Etsy Store
The Dark Carnival Tarot deck is a hand-drawn 78-card, somewhat traditional, small press tarot deck. The artwork on the deck is based around what its creator, Rachel Paul, calls "dark circus imagery", inspired by the Juggalo subculture surrounding the band Insane Clown Posse. Available on Etsy from the artist, the very reasonably priced deck set includes the deck, a booklet, and a bag with your choice of design. I normally don’t comment on bags included with decks from the creators but in this case I felt I had to. Rachel went the extra mile here and I want to give her kudos for it. With your order, you get a black velvet bag on which Rachel will hand paint any number of designs, including a Lotus Cross, Butterfly, Violent J or Shaggy 2 Dope Clown Face, Ringmaster, Wraith (the one I got), or really whatever you like. Really liked this extra personal touch. The Dark Carnival Tarot deck itself that I received is actually the new, third edition. The first two editions, it is my understanding, were available at different Juggalo culture events, and were received very fondly. I will admit to not knowing much about the Insane Clown Posse (ICP) culture but was drawn to the deck because it is something my oldest daughter likes. So, while I am not a Juggalette, I can, as a Tarot reader, appreciate this deck and Rachel’s effort. The cards are 3.5”x5" (making them larger than a standard playing card deck) borderless and professionally printed on thick, semi-gloss cardstock. The artwork is bold and bright, full of fantastic detail. Rachel does an interesting job of capturing the essence of the meaning of each card while holding fast to the Juggalo cultural references. The suits are Duckets (Pentacles), Faygos (Cups), Axes (Swords) and Gats (Wands) all the elemental correspondences holding to the RWS system. While I would not recommend this deck to a beginner, it is oddly readable. I would, however, recommend that a little bit of background in understanding the ICP culture would definitely further your understanding of the deck. Rachel uses the symbolism of the culture to further illustrate the symbolism of each card, and you would really be missing some gems with this deck if you didn’t at least take a moment to give a cursory look into the Juggalo culture, something you can find in the accompanying booklet. The 56-page booklet is an interesting read, giving you some small insight into the Juggalo culture. I will say that I do not agree with a number of things Rachel said in her introduction, some of which bordered on the insulting for those of us with many years of Tarot reading experience. It is one of those things where someone who is incapable of doing something talks down on those who can. But it’s her booklet and everyone is entitled to their opinion, even when they are wrong. The rest of the booklet is an asset to this deck. It is written in the Juggalo vernacular (for a lack of a better word), full of slang and profanity that actually makes it amusing to read. But it also gives you a fantastic understanding of her thought process behind each card, something I like seeing artists do and one of the reasons I love small press decks. I especially find her thought process when it came to the court cards (Joker, Warrior, Queen and King, in this deck) very interesting. Where some people stumble, she really has a decent grasp. Every card has a great interpretation and this makes the booklet both functional for the reader and an actual entertaining read, something some accompanying books/booklets fail to do. My overall impression of the Dark Carnival Tarot deck is that it is one that is interesting to look at and would be interesting to read with. I, again, do not recommend this deck for someone who does not already have an understanding of Tarot as the standard symbolism is not there, and a beginner may find the imagery overwhelming. I also think that, much like the Deviant Tarot, you have to like the artwork, which I do find pretty interesting, to get into the deck. I will say that even if it isn’t something you could see yourself reading with, the Dark Carnival Tarot deck is one of those decks you will regret not having as part of your collection purely because of how well done and unique it is. Kudos to Rachel Paul on her fabulous creation!
Image Credit: Laurie Sherman
Healing
Grounding
by JessNamaste
Past-Life
Crystal Corner
JessNamaste works to bring love and light to those around her. This series, “Romancing the Stone”, is her first time sharing her knowledge and experience with the metaphysical world. JessNamaste has always spoken the language of the earth, crystals and stones. We hope her knowledge will bring you not only information, but inspiration as well! If you want to get to know her more through her experiences, or send her a message directly, please visit jessnamaste.weebly.com.
Petrified wood is a fossil that forms when a plant is protected from decay due to high oxygen and living organisms. Then, inorganic materials such as minerals seep through the plant, preserving the woody structure. Petrified wood is common and is associated with the Root Chakra (no surprise there). When I began my path of spiritual healing, petrified wood was one of the first stones I purchased. My life at that time was a bit of a mess, my emotions were a bit of a mess, and it’s no wonder this fossil sang to my heart. When I hold this, I am reminded that time creates beautiful things. Time heals. Time is to be cherished. I am reminded to take a breath, to appreciate what is around me, and be present in the moment. Summer is a busy time. Usually filled with weddings, graduations, get togethers, and trying to balance these events with our normal pace of life. Petrified wood reminds us to slow down. It can be used to re-ground, to get back in touch with Mother Nature and her slow, beautiful way of doing things. If you are city bound, carrying a piece of petrified wood can help you stay connected with nature.
Balance
Petrified Wood
At approximately 2ft tall, Salvia officinalis, better known as sage, grows in many shapes, sizes, and colors. It is frequently seen with pink, lavender, or purple flowers and 1-2.5” wide oblong shaped leaves. The leaves come in a dark shade of green on the top side of the plant, whereas the bottom portion is white and covered in many short hairs. Sage originated in the Mediterranean, but has been naturalized in many parts across the globe. Today, sage has become a common ornamental garden plant. Sage has been well-regarded for its particularly antiseptic and mental health properties. For ages, it has been gargled for use in treatment of oral ailments: gum disease, mouth sores, and sore throat. Sage has also been shown to aid in insulin production and is known for aiding in the digestion of fatty foods. Stomach aches and indigestion can be calmed by drinking a sage-based tea. This amazing plant is also known for aiding in milk production, mastitis, and fertility. Due to the presence of the chemical thujone, internal usage of sage should be closely monitored and taken with extreme caution. Overdosing can cause seizures, loss of function, and even death. According to mythology, sage is masculine in nature and attributed to the element of air and the sign Leo. The herb has been found sacred to Zeus, Jupiter, Mother Mary, and the Crone. In Shamanic/Native traditions, white sage was utilized for cleansing sacred space. Burning sage can aid in emotional healing from the loss of a loved one and has shown to bring about a sense of clarity to its users. Placing a sage leaf in your wallet or pocket is said to bring about prosperity. You can also write your desires on the sage leaf and sleep with it under your pillow for three nights. On the morning of the fourth, bury the sage leaf in the ground. Finally, washing with sage has been noted to darken hair.
Wisdom
Clarity
Purifying
by JFlynn
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.
Gifts of Gaia
Cleansing
Sage
Image Credit: Kolika Kirk
Hekaterine Nox
Hekaterine Nox, known as “Black Kat”, is a Lushede tradition-initiated Witch with wordsmithing tendencies. Having found the Craft at 18 though a Southern California based Celtic Reconstructionist “church”, she travelled the path of the solitary for many years thereafter. Influenced by Athena and the Morrighan, she is a crafter of fabric and weaver of words with teaching tendencies.
Thankful for the Earth
Thankful for the Earth Thankful for the Rain Thankful for the Goddess from whence life begain Thankful for the animals, the trees and the lore Thankful for the God, his stability and more Standing with feet firmly planted I humble myself to Their Calling Free spirit, free thoughts and mentally free falling Thankful for the Wisdom Thankful for the signs Thankful for the blessings of the Universe Divine!
This is one of my powder recipes for Spiritual and Purification Cleansing that is also a fantastic Protection powder! I incorporated each of the elements into this one. You can also reduce it to just one correspondence with each element if you choose.
Directions:: Add your pinches of each herb or bark into your Pestle. ( I personally start with fire, but do what feels right.) Grind the holy crap out of it! Add your Salt. Continue to grind the crap out of it until it is a lovely powder that smells heavenly. Carefully place powder into your jar or Bag and label. When you feel it's time for a good cleansing and/or protection ritual, simply place tiny amounts of your magic powder onto your hot charcoal throughout your spell or ritual to keep that cleansing and/or protection smoke/essence going, fanning and basking in the magic! (Have a window open for ventilation and release.) ENJOY!
Image Credit: maxpixel.net
Heavy Hitter Element Dust
Out of the Cauldron
You will need: Mortar and Pestle Small Jar or Bag A Good Pinch of Each: Dried Rosemary – Fire Dried St. John's Wort – Fire Dried Chamomile – Water Dried Eucalyptus – Water Ash Tree Bark – Earth Dried Mugwort – Earth Dried Sage – Air Dried Clover – Air Sea Salt
Audrey Hazzard owns an unreasonable number of cookbooks. She started practicing eclectic Wicca in the 90s when everyone else was doing it. She's a huge fan of farmer's markets, potions, and tarot.
Grill some extra summer vegetables on the weekend and turn them into an easy lunch for the week ahead! The bacon, pasta, and dressing can easily be prepared ahead, and the dressing may even benefit from a day or so in the refrigerator. Try this with other seasonal vegetables as well – like sweet corn or eggplant.
Directions 1. Preheat oven to 400. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lay bacon flat. Bake 15-20 minutes until crispy. When bacon is done, chop into bite size pieces. 2. While bacon is in the oven, cook pasta according to package instructions. Rinse to cool and refrigerate if not serving immediately. 3. To prepare dressing, whisk mayonnaise, sour cream and buttermilk until smooth. Mix in chopped dill, mustard powder and salt. Refrigerate until ready to serve. 4. Cut zucchini lengthwise in half, and then into 1/4 inch slices. Thread onto prepared skewers. 5. Thread cherry tomatoes onto skewers. Brush zucchini and tomatoes with oil and sprinkle with salt. 6. Grill vegetables over medium to heat for 5-10 minutes, flipping once, until squash is a bit charred and tomatoes char and begin to shrivel. 7. Mix pasta, bell pepper, grilled vegetables, crumbled cheese, and dressing. Top with bacon, sunflower seeds and green onions to serve.
Ingredients: 2-4 oz bacon 8 oz short pasta (like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni) 1 bell pepper, any color, chopped For the Dressing: 1/8 cup mayonnaise 1/8 cup sour cream or plain yogurt 1/4 cup buttermilk 1/4 tsp salt 1/8 tsp mustard powder 1-2 TB fresh dill, chopped For the Grilled Vegetables: 1 zucchini or yellow squash 1 pint cherry tomatoes 1-2 TB canola or sunflower oil Skewers (soaked if using bamboo) Salt To Finish: 1/4 cup roasted, salted sunflower seeds 8 oz crumbled feta, queso fresco or other fresh crumbly cheese 2 sliced green onions
Grilled Summer Veggie Pasta Salad
by Audrey Hazzard
by Lily Decker
Lily Decker is just a girl who brews tea, reads books, and knows things. She has been in, out, and around the KC Pagan community for 15 years now learning, practicing and teaching Wicca and Witchcraft with different groups and on her own.
At the height of the light’s power, that apex where light hits its zenith and almost simultaneously begins to wane to its lowest point, the darkness reaches its lowest point and almost simultaneously begins to wax on its journey to the height of its power. Light and dark coexist all year long no matter which one is waxing and which one is waning. When we feel the power of light stronger than dark it doesn’t mean dark is weak or absent, and the converse is also true. At Litha we celebrate the height of the light’s power, but contained within that celebration is acknowledgement that the power will begin to wane while the dark of midwinter inches closer and closer starting that same day. The bonfire at summer solstice celebrates the power of the longest day and the sun’s great warmth and light. Everything we planted in the warming of spring is now growing and is close to its harvest time. The goddess is pregnant and will continue to grow until the winter solstice when she gives birth to the return of the light from the height of the dark. The bonfire at winter solstice celebrates that the time of dark has reached its height and the light is now reborn and will begin its return. Sometimes we attach too much emphasis on the light at each solstice celebration, leaving the dark as the unwanted element at both parties and the light the celebrated guest at both. But the light does not exist without the dark, and the dark is not bad or evil and should not be left out of either celebration. We need to work harder in our practice to balance the dark with the light year round. In the dark we find rest and quiet. Contemplation and reflection, all things we need in order to be whole and complete in our identities and journeys. Divination is easier in the darkness where future outcomes can come better into focus. We make our plans and plant our seeds of intention in the days following the winter solstice, but we don’t always begin our introspection and reflection in the days after the summer solstice. Most years we don’t even talk about the dark part of the year until Samhain, and then it is often as a quick afterthought as we look toward the winter solstice almost immediately so we can focus on the light once again. A balance of light and dark is vital year round. We are able to find the light in all but the time between Samhain and Yule. We need to work harder in our practice to balance the dark with the light year round. One way to do this is to begin introspection and reflection as we prepare for harvest, just as we begin to plan what we want to grow as soon as the dark is put to bed and the light is born again at Yule. It will make our identities and our paths more balanced and whole.
Litha Light and Dark
with Laurie Sherman
The Witch's Pyramid
I am grateful that I am a Witch. I have practiced Witchcraft for over thirty years, sometimes openly, sometimes quietly. I have learned to understand myself, find myself, understand my Gods, and connect with my Ancestors. No matter what my life looked like, or what I was going through, Witchcraft, and my faith, was and continues to be the solid bedrock beneath my world. One of the many things I have been grateful for over the years is how the Witch’s Pyramid was pounded into my head as a young Witch. While I was made to read the numerous versions and interpretations, It was my own understanding and meditation on the concepts that have sustained me over the years. The pyramid consists of To Know, To Will, To Dare and To Keep Silent. To Know To Know is deeper than just knowledge. It is an understanding, a truth. It is not just hearing the words but feeling them deep within until they become a part of you. It is not just repeating what you have read, but feeling it resonate in your core. It is reading a pile of books, studying a pile more, then, brushing it all aside to find the deeper knowledge within yourself in knowing yourself, knowing who you truly. To Know is to understand the truth of the craft comes, not from books or teachers, but from deep within the Witch themselves. It it for this deeper understanding that “To Know" is part of the Witch’s Pyramid. To Will To Will is a scream, an explosion. Witchcraft is not lighting candles and waving wands. It is the reigning in of the storm within. It is to gather into yourself the force to level an army, the passion to incapacitate a lover and the determination to remove any obstacle from your path. It is to take all of that raw energy and channel it into one single purpose. "To Will" is to say this is not a path for the weak of Spirit, and it is for this, and many other reasons, it is part of the Witch's Pyramid. To Dare To Dare is to say the words, "I am a Witch," not to your friends and family, or the neighbor down the street. To dare is to say those words before your Gods, to stand stripped of any ornamentation or title, alone and naked in the darkness. "I am a Witch," spoken out loud as your Gods peer into your soul, scrutinize your inner being, see you for as you truly, genuinely are. "To Dare" is to stand naked, shoulders squared and chin slightly raised, look them each in the eye and say loud and clear, "I am a Witch," and it is for this, and many other reasons, it is part of the Witch's Pyramid. To Keep Silent To Keep Silent is to be smart, to keep safe, to completely own your words, deeds, and energy, and control who you share that with. Silence allows you to be conscious of your surroundings, and is part of being present in each moment. It allows you to practice everything you do with intention. In silence, we use energy in our Witchcraft to bring about change in our lives, rather than wasting it on words. We also learn when and where we need to keep our silence to keep safe from those who threaten us because of the path we have chosen. To know when to speak up, and when to hold our words. For these reasons, To Keep Silent is a part of the Witch’s Pyramid. In studying, meditating, understanding, and even living the Witch's Pyramid, we give ourselves a solid foundation that will support all we do and learn. This is why I am so grateful for it, for that solid place to stand when all else seems to a spinning out of control. Over the years, how I understood each concept has changed, but the fundamental truths held within the Witch's Pyramid remain, and continue to be a cornerstone of my life. The Urban Crone
Contemplative Crone
Community Voices
Weening out toxic people and making a better life for me and my daughter. -Jason Arlie Robertson
I have lost over 120 pounds! Yes, I did have weight loss surgery and no, it was not the easy way out. I will be forever grateful of this opportunity - this gift. I feel as is I got released from prison!! I also have refocused on my spiritual path. I put it aside years ago but now feel like I am back on course. -Kansas Kim
My family and wonderful friends -Margaret Jacobs Brando
My family -Yancy Walker
Heartland -Michael Evans
The beautiful people who have helped, been there, inspired, challenged, and taught me to love who I am. Flawed and all.. truths hurt, loss is pain, knowledge feels like hell even when it is like a new beginning. -Cassandra Burton
What have you been most grateful for in the past year?
My husband and I are celebrating 13 years of marriage. - Odyssia
Moon Phase Today: Lunar Calendar
Bulfinch's Mythology: The Classic Introduction to Myth and Legend by Thomas Bulfinch
Bookshelf
Aeclectic Tarot Tarot Reference Website
Mrs. B's Guide to Household Witchery: Everyday Magic, Spells, and Witchery by Kris Bradley
Druidry and the Art of Sustainable, Meaningful Offerings by The Druids Garden
Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs by Scott Cunningham
The Orphic Hymns by Aposolos N Athanassakis and Benjamin M Wolkow
Why We Make Offerings by John Beckett
Elements: Earth
Because the elements are basic building blocks of witchcraft, there are a million ways you can go and we would love to see all levels, perspectives, and ideas of the Earth element whether standard practice or completely off the wall. Also remember, we cover from the Fall Equinox to the Winter Solstice with this issue, and anything seasonal is always welcome! Deadline for this issue is
September 7, 2018
thecenterspiral@gmail.com
Fall Equinox 2018
We will be doing a series on the elements starting with Earth in the Fall Equinox issue. We are looking for your articles, artwork, pictures, and input for this topic. Absolutely anything regarding Earth. What does the element mean to you? How do you work with it? How do you connect with it? What do you associate with Earth and why? Do you connect to earth through other elements? Do you connect to other elements through earth? Send all of your submissions to
Contributors
Thank you!
The Center Spiral Staff Emily Gabbert Laurie Sherman Marietta Williams Mike Nichols Luna Motherowl
Emaleth Summer Audrey Hazzard J.S. Groves S.P. Manning R. Duncan Hekaterine Nox Katarina Elaine JFlynn JessNamaste Shandril oc Arran Sandy Leppin Lily Decker Kolika Kirk Calistar KB Whitney Gabbert Ripley Herndon
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, creativity, and knowledge of our community. The Center Spiral would not be what it is without your contributions. Thank you for helping us to educate, inspire, and connect.
thecenterspiral@gmail.com thecenterspiral.blogspot.com facebook.com/thecenterspiral
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 -
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
Thank you!!!
