Enchanted Petals

So I spent several hours at a friend's Floral shop this past Tuesday and have an appointment booked for next Tuesday. Below you'll find pictures of the store, some of the products, arrangements, and make sure to check them out on facebook. Give em a like and share!
There are classes too for those interested!

Stop by on Monday's and Tuesdays for:
Monday's - Massage Monday!
Tuesday's - Tarot Tuesday!

Omnipotent #WaveOfAction

New youtube Mini-series - Ask Vixen

The latest videos I've been working on. They are now live. There will be an episode 4 coming soon too. Keep an eye out on Youtube ^_^

Astral Temple Creation

Creating an Astral Temple

First of all, what is an Astral Temple and what is its use?

Firstly, the name really is misleading, because it’s not really on the astral plane but in your mind. You are your own temple. However, due to the very nature of the Astral Plane, you can create your temple there once you’ve created it in your mind.  Like anything in the realm of mind or astral, this requires constant maintenance.  So maintain your Astral Temple at least once a month at a minimum.

So what is the purpose of this temple? Well, it can be used for anything you need it for. Whether it’s for ritual, just a quiet place to get away to, spells, talking with other entities in a safe location (such as spirits).  Whatever you desire to use your temple for is up to you.

Creating your temple

Start by drawing out a rough idea or writing out a general list of attributes you’d like your temple to have. Does it have walls or is it a labyrinth? Do you want it to be a sacred meadow surrounded by high stone walls or a small cottage? These are all things you need to consider.

Next, think about the materials that you would need. Do you want it made from stone, brick and mortar, a thatch style, the elements, etc…?

Now think of a key style you want to use. This is not to be told to anyone, otherwise you will have to rethink it and remake your lock for your temple.

This is the fun part. Visualize all of this. Start by visualizing your area. Whether it’s in a meadow, in a bog, whatever. Start building your temple “brick by brick”. You want to make sure your foundation is out first so that you can build upon it, this is no different than your time in your path. You need to lay your foundation and build upon it.

The next thing you need to do once your entire temple is built up, is go through it. Walk through the door of your temple, and make adjustments as you go. You can now create your altar, add carpeting to the floor (if you have one), whatever it is you desire.

Remember that you can come back to this place just by thinking about it. It will change as you change and as you want it to change.  You can invite your friends, or create thought forms here.  It really is a free for all on your part.

A few things to remember: Meditation is key for concentration so your temple is not a ghetto, unless that is how you designed it to be. It’s important to keep it clean and free of clutter. Be focuses on what you want, and creativity is important because your temple IS YOU.

A Clean Aura is a good idea, as well as cleansed and balanced chakras, but you can also do that in your temple. ( I personally have a special place in mine for healing and cleansing, this is a personal option that you can choose.)

Astral Projection Methods

Astral Projection Methods

There are numerous methods out there that can be tried. Finding the right one for you is real trick. I suggest and have found this useful: think about what you like to do. Do you like to mountain climb? Try the Monroe/Rope Technique, as the natural sensation of being tethered is present. Do you like music or rhythms? Try binaural beats, or classical music. Using nature sounds, or drumming music is also helpful. Are you a creative individual who day dreams? Try creative visualizations or guided meditations to help you out.

Below are a few techniques that I have personally used, and some of my students in the past have used and found useful. Remember that these are meant to be serious techniques, and  although astral travel and projection can be fun, should be taken seriously.

One of the most common methods is the Rope Technique also known as the Monroe Technique.

11.)    Do a thorough relaxation, until you feel completely settled.

22.)    Reach out with your “imaginary” hands and pull yourself in a hand over hand motion on the rope that hangs above you. Try visualizing the feeling of the rope as being coarse, strong and thick as you pull yourself up.

Do not try to visualize the rope, this creates added distraction, and it can hinder your progress. You want to try to imagine that you are reaching for this rope in the dark so that you can’t see it.

A few things you may experience while doing this method: You will feel a slight dizzy sensation inside your body. The dizzy feeling and any feelings of pressure or vertigo is cause by your mental action of pulling on the rope, so sometimes taking a short breather or flat out ignoring the sensations is the best way to go.

33.)    Keep climbing, hand over hand, and you will eventually feel a heavy sensation come over you. This is normal, but ignore it and keep climbing.

44.)    As you continue to climb, you may experience your chakras opening, this is normal so don’t stop climbing.

55.)    You may feel vibrations start, a feeling of being paralyzed, etc… Just remain single minded and keep climbing.

66.)    Next you will start to feel yourself slowly coming free. Some people will feel a strong buzzing, others will feel extreme cold or heat.  You will eventually exit your body in the direction you have been pulling.

Note: Do not break concentration, otherwise you will have to start all over again.

The Lift/Roll out Technique:

This is literally as it sounds

11.)    Relax

22.)    Visualize floating out of your body

33.)    Once you feel you are floating, roll to the side

Rolling out

1.)    Relax

2.)    Feel yourself slowly rocking back and forth (slowly at first and gradually build up momentum)

3.)    You will eventually hit the critical point and roll right out.

What is critical here and in the previous method is that you physically do not move.

Stand Up

1.)    Relax yourself

2.)    Reach your high vibration where you feel like you are going to float

3.)    Stand up

Hammock Technique

1.)    Relax yourself and visualize your physical body as the hammock

2.)    Slowly see yourself swinging rhythmically back and forth, back and forth

3.)    As you swing build up momentum

4.)    When you reach your peak, swing one last time and swing your spiritual self out of your physical body.

Experiment and play around with it, find what works for you. Have fun and enjoy your spiritual journey!  

Introduction to Astral Projection

Astral Projection Basics

So what is Astral Projection? Many people define it as casting ones spirit out into a realm of spirit and thought, known as the Astral Plane.  What a lot of them forget to explain is that there are 3 planes, the physical plane, which is where we are now, the Etheric plane a realm of total spirit & the physical; and is parallel to our plane, and of course then comes the astral which is spirit and thought.

What can you do in the astral plane? Anything you want within reason. It’s a realm of thought and spirit so you can create your most deepest desires here to either release them to the universe later, or to play out a fantasy to see how the most ideal paths would be. You can create buildings, forests, meadows, etc.. all with a thought.

What’s the point? Well, that’s up to you really. I find going there to be a huge stress relief, to do rituals when in a cramped time frame, and to light healing candles and send energy to those in need. My astral temple is tended to regularly so it is well maintained and a link for me to return to a safe an comfortable location every time I go to the astral realm.

Astral temple? An astral temple is a building or specific location in the astral realm that you create based on what you feel would be most comfortable to you. When you create your astral temple you will not only create it to your liking, but you will create a lock for it as well that only you can open. This does require maintenance, so make sure you check on it every once in a while (I recommend about once a month at a minimum).

Is it dangerous? Not in a physical sense, no. Your body creates a barrier all on its own, so possession isn’t a problem (this is a very common question).  You can’t “wander too far away from your body” either (this comes up in the movie insidious, which is more Etheric projection which is another topic all together, and no you can’t wander too far). You have a “silver cord” that connects your spiritual self to your physical body.  This cord does not break, and cannot be cut, it will stretch and bend and be with you everywhere you go in the astral realm (it does the same in the Etheric realm but again another topic).

You can be harmed in the astral realm on a spiritual level however, usually by astral “nasties” which are lower level energies that are drawn to your personal white light within. These are usually not uniform in appearance, meaning simple they have no one form to identify them by. They are similar to grayish blobs, but they will take on appearances that will terrify you, and scare you.  So how do you defend yourself against these things? There are a few methods you can use, you can stand up against them, remembering this is a realm of thought, you can manifest anything at any time to defend yourself. You can also think of your body and return, which is the quickest way to get out, or think of your astral temple, these things can’t get in there, so you’re safe there as well.

I can’t AP, what am I doing wrong? There’s a lot of different things that could be leading to this issue. One, you are being impatient, astral projection is difficult to learn for many and requires a lot of practice and trial and error of different methods. Another reason you could be having difficulties is a muddy aura or improperly aligned and cleansed chakras. Make sure you are doing daily cleansings and alignments, and if not daily, at least weekly. I am a very busy person and I align and cleanse at least once a week if not more. There is no excuse as to why this cannot be done, it takes about 5-10 minutes when you learn a specific method that works for you. Another reason is that you may not be cut out for astral travel, instead you may want to look into alternatives, such as remote viewing, or “riding along” with animals.

There are so many techniques, which one is right for me? Remember that part about trial and error I mentioned before? That’s your answer. Try different ones, from guided meditations to visualization. Stay away from the lucid dreaming though, starting out there will usually slow your progress with astral projection because you have to relearn the difference between dreaming and the astral plane through your own sense of which is which. People astral project every night in their sleep, but due to the change in consciousness many times it will be hard to remember, if you can remember the experience at all. This is another technique though that many will use.

How long does it take to learn? To learn it takes as long as it takes to read a method. How long it takes to actually do it is another story. Some people get it after a few tries, others will take longer because not every method will work for them. Take for example myself; it took me 6 months to actually accomplish multiple successful astral projections and another 6 months to perfect my technique and to be able to do it at will. Each person is different and will take a variance in time to master this.

I keep falling asleep while doing this, what am I doing wrong? Nothing, this is completely normal. If you are really worried about it then learn to meditate for longer periods of time. The main goal for a successful projection is to do this and remain awake.

I’m having odd sensations and hearing weird sounds and they frighten me, what do I do? There are a few things that you can do in this situation; one is “get over” the fear, face it head on. You can also call on your spirit guide to help you and protect you if that is the issue. Another solution is to use a protective symbol that brings you peace or cast a circle around your bed. Some people will create a crystal barrier or vortex around themselves as well. Do what feels comfortable to you.

Most importantly: Remember to relax, be patient and have fun with it. It does take time but with practice you can accomplish it.

Is the Altar an essential or just something you can do on the side?

A question arose in a group I am part of on facebook. The question is: Is the Altar and essential part of practicing or is it something you don't need? The answer to this question is- it depends. It is a personal choice whether you want to make the altar essential to your practice, strictly to hold your magical tools, or whatever it is that you use your altar for. Some people have permanent altars, while others do not.The altar for me personally, is essential to my practice because of how frequently I use my altar for a variety of purposes. My altar usually has 2 statues to represent deity, or 1 large spirit candle, with a few crystals at the very least. I use my altar for creating vorticies with crystals, as well as making crystal grids for healing, balance, cleansing and protection. I leave my poppets here to remind myself about them and the people they represent, and I also leave images of thought forms I have created so that I remember to tend to them. I also do morning libations at my altar when my schedule allows, and really it is just a focal point of energy and balance for me. I'll even meditate in front of my altar and channel messages from spirit in front of my altar. So for me, the altar is an essential part of my daily routine and practice as a witch.

While on the topic of the altar, there are also several ways to set one up, based on your needs, and although again this is a personal thing, it's helpful to know that your altar can be re-arranged for your needs. In noting this, there are several types of altars, such as a fairy altar to draw in the faey, an ancestral altar to honor your ancestors and loved ones, the elemental altar where all 5 elements are represented through physical symbols, and a working altar where you do all your rituals, just to name a few styles. I will describe a few of them for you.

Ancestral Altar Setup
To set up an ancestral altar you'll need your altar table, a white or blue altar cloth, candles, pictures of your ancestors you wish to honor (these can be changed out too if you are limited on space) and incense and/or a dish to leave offerings.

Lay out your altar cloth if you have chosen to use one. Place your pictures along the back of your altar, as this area represents spirit. Place your candle or candles in front of the pictures for lighting in their honor. Place the incense where they will not get in the way of a dish for offerings. Then place the dish on to the table as well if you've chosen to have one (offering dishes or libation dishes are good for leaving small things such as a small amount of tea, honey, bread, fruit, etc... as energy for your ancestors in their afterlife).
Image of Layout for my visual people:

Standard Altar

The average altar taught in Wicca, is what I like to call the standard altar because it's one of the most common altar setups and the layout can literally be found anywhere on the net. For this you will need the following: A candle or statue or image to represent the Goddess and one for the God. A Censer,  a bowl of water, a bowl of salt, a pentacle, a cauldron (if you have one), incense, athame, bolline, chalice, wand and a bell.

These will be laid out on the altar as follows:

If you don't have some of these items, don't worry about it, use what you have available. Remember that tools can be made too, or you can use cheaper alternatives for example: instead of an athame you use a butterknife.
One more reminder before I send you away yearning for more: DO NOT EVER LEAVE A CANDLE OR ANY KIND OPEN FLAME (including incense) BURNING UNATTENDED!!!!!!!!!!

Life

Life is kinda funny when you think about it. You have your ups and your downs, and those random left turns that just throw you for a loop. Well, as a brief update (since I haven't posted anything in forever and day) I will be graduating college with my Associates Degree in Elementary Education on May 20, 2013. I will also be moving to Arkansas on June 1,2013 to start my own Metaphysical shop with a witch sister and my own wiccan homeschool that will cover not only the basics of Wicca, but will also cover the Core Standards (very tricky task if you've ever looked up what the core standards are). I've also been watching the world go  about it's way, especially in the realm of politics (which suck) and the ruthless, self righteous bigotry of many of the politicians, which is another story all it's own.

The main thing I wanted to tell my readers though is this, as it cannot be said enough, If you want to find out what nature has to offer, then bring yourself into a stillness, close your trap, and really listen to what nature is saying. If you don't feel like crying when you touch a tree that is in the middle of a town, then you should really look at what is taking place in your area.

Also, for those who unaware, there was an oil spill in Mayflower, Arkansas. Learn about what oil spills can do to the drinking supply of water, the local environment, and what the fumes do to people by looking up this spill and others like it. Most people have been in an uproar over the Boston Bombing, but my uproar is over the lack of concern for the environment, the fast growing use of GMO's, and the abuse of animals. The Earth is weeping and many are ignoring it. Do what you can for your local area by organizing groups of people to clean up local parks, your neighborhood, etc... Remember to lead by example.

20 Ways to Simplify Your Life as a Pagan

20 Ways to Simplify Your Life as a Pagan

1.) Take time to enjoy the little things- stop and smell the roses, you never know what beauty you can find in nature or yourself until you embrace what is around you. The Goddess is in everything.

2.) Take time out to relax each day – 20 minutes in the tub to relax or just doing something you enjoy to take your mind off the stresses of the day is highly recommended to reduce stress hormones and can even help you lose those few pounds you keep wishing would fall away. Meditation is a HUGE HELP!!!!

3.) Eat Healthy- eating healthy not only gives you well nourished skin, but it also has been linked to better and deeper sleeping patterns to help you stay well rested and ready to go for the next day. Eat to the seasons too, this helps you stay connected with the changing seasons and eat a healthier diet.

4.) Get 8 hrs of sleep each night- although it’s very tempting to stay up all night and facebook chat with friends or doing that late night ritual, getting the recommended 8 hrs of sleep each night will help you de-stress and relax. It is also important for your skin as the tension of the day when it’s not released can cause tension lines. So get that sleep ladies!

5.) Surround yourself with positive people- although this one is a little tough, it’s not impossible. There is always someone in a worse situation than you, so stay positive and surround yourself with love. What you send out comes back. Positive energy brings positive changes!

6.) Always be honest- To yourself and others. This reduces stress and keeps you out of trouble. Being honest with yourself will allow you to change the things you can, and accept the things you can’t. This can also help keep emotional baggage out of your rituals.

7.) Let go of the past- Live in the here and now. Don’t forget the past, but leave the past in the past to help reduce stress and open yourself to love and new opportunities.

8.) Don’t buy things you don’t need- keeping a budget in this day and age is hard. So don’t spend any money on things you don’t need.  Don’t try to “keep up with the Blackhearts”. When you have too many materialistic items, you don’t control them, they end up controlling you. Remember that tools are just tools, too many of them can become clutter and unusable. Organize, Organize Organize!

9.) Take a day to pamper yourself and de-stress entirely- taking a whole day to just relax and enjoy yourself, or do something you love, helps to de-stress and can even allow you to start a new hobby you didn’t know you enjoyed. This is also a great time to pamper your skin too! Take a day to relax from all those spells you've been casting!

10.) Stay open-always stay open to new opportunities and ideas, they can lead you to new adventures and places you’ve always wanted to go or to places and things you love and enjoy. You never know when the Goddess will speak to you!

11.) Keep work at work, and home life at home- so many people forget this one. We are all used to bringing our work home with us, or our home life to work with us. Leave these stresses where they belong. It will make you happy and your family happy. No one at work needs to hear about your latest spell casting failure, and no one at home needs to know how weird your co-workers think you are!

12.) Just go with the flow- don’t sweat the small stuff. If something happens, deal with as it happens. Stressing and worrying about what could happen can lead to a highly unproductive environment. Sometimes it's better to swim with the stream than to fight against it's current ^_~.

13.) Simplify your belongings- Do a good cleaning out of things you no longer use or need, whether clothes or just things laying around the home. This helps keep a clean home and a happy home. For every 1 item you acquire set 2 free to someone else who may need it

14.) Keep things simple in relationships- be honest, don’t take things personally, Learn to say “No” (we are all guilty of this one, it’s hard to say no to your loved ones and friends, but sometimes it’s needed) and of course, set boundaries. Don't be casting love spells willy nilly on your boy or girl crush.

15.) Don’t let your fears get in the way of your success- we all have things we fear, so don’t let them get in the way of all the great successes you have accomplished and will accomplish. Face your fears and overcome them to live a happier and more successful life. Fear can be a motivator or a hindrance, but fear can lead to sadness and a lack of motivation. Face your fears and remember to enter your circle and home with Perfect Love and Perfect Trust!

16.) Get outside often- getting out in the fresh air is great for body function, and the sun is a great source of Vitamin D. Enjoy what nature has to offer to you. The Goddess is alive and magic is afoot! Get outside and dance in the rain!

17.) Finish old tasks before you begin a new one- this helps keep you organized and stress free because you know what you have to do and what has already been done. Don't start on a wand and leave it to start on something else. Focus, Focus, Focus!

18.) Focus on one thing at a time- this allows you to put your all into whatever it is you are doing. If you get frustrated set the task aside and return to it later with fresh eyes and a fresh mind. You’d be surprised what things you are capable of. We don't need cauldrons boiling over in the middle of a ritual, so delegate some of the tasks if you are in a coven to help relieve the pressure on your coven mates.

19.) Get away from the computer and tv- not only is this good for your own sanity, but it allows you to get your mind off the advertisements which can lead to you buying more things you don’t need or have room for.  This also helps get you out into nature to explore what the Lord and Lady have to offer!

20.) Every Day is a Gift- remember this and live life to the fullest. Don’t overwork yourself, take time to relax, and enjoy your spouse, children, family and friends. Live in the now and worry about the future as it comes. We all have a purpose, it just takes time for some of us to find it!

Love and Light,

Lady Silvervixen

Staff or Wand

So what many people inquire about are the tools of the craft. 2 tools I get many questions about are the Staff and the Wand.

Some common questions concerning these 2 tools are:
"Which is better?" (in the sense of functionality)
"Do I have to buy one or can I make one?"
"How do I make one?"
"Where can I buy one?"

Well let's start with the basics first.

Depending upon the tradition you learn from, or what feels right to you the Wand is usually the representation of the element of Air and the Eastern Direction, but will sometimes be a tool of Fire as well. The wand is a phallic symbol of masculinity.The wand is usually 13 inches or shorter. The common length to work with is from your wrist to your elbow. Wands are commonly used for infusing energy into objects such as candles, stones, or herbs. It can however be used to cast the circle. Again this will vary from tradition to tradition. If you are lacking in a wand you can always use your index finger of your casting hand to symbolize the wand. The wand is also easy to use indoors or outdoors.

The Staff is a longer extension of the Wand as the Sword is to the Athame. It has a lot of the same properties and characteristics of the Wand. The Staff's height however, is usually either equal to or a few inches shorter than your own height. The staff is used for all the same purposes of the wand, but due to it's height, it's best used outdoors. The Staff can be used to aid you in a spiritual walk, as a sign of status (such as in the reenactment of the battle of the Holly King and Oak King at Litha and Yule, though it's more common to just use long branches, some traditions will use plain staffs made of oak and one of holly to represent the two times of the year and the two kings).

So which one is better? That depends on you. If you like simple functionality and easy storage, the Wand is a great choice. If you like being in nature and taking long hikes, or just like that feeling of being a great witch from time to time ^_~ the Staff is the way to go.

So where can I buy a Wand or Staff? There are many places on the internet that offer decent prices and customization. Remember, Google is your friend. You can also check your local pagan and witchy based shops. They may not offer customization but they usually have gorgeous wands and staffs of many varieties.

Do I have to buy one of these? Nope, nature provides her students with everything they need. Go outside and find a lovely length of branch from a tree. Remember it's not wise to harvest from a living tree unless you ask the tree for it's help, and make sure to leave it an offering of water, or a crystal to help it stay healthy! Trees have feelings too!!!!

Are Wand's limited to just being made of wood? Absolutely NOT! Wands range from wood to copper, and even stone. You can find wand making kits for the copper and crystal kinds on the internet from different shops. For those interested in the copper wands, please remember that the oils on your skin and being exposed to air will cause the copper to oxidize, meaning it will turn green (kinda like the Statue of Liberty). Copper wands are usually used for healing, which is also one of the greatest things about the crystal wands as well. Crystals are directly from the earth so they will have a wonderful vibration to them and are great for healers. If you are looking for something more traditional, a simple wood wand made from Holly, Oak, Birch, or something of the like is a great way to go to. Wood wands are easy to take care of, easy to store and highly multipurpose if you personalize them with herbs and crystals, as well as little charms to make them your own.

How do I make a Wand?
Watch this short video for quick tips and tricks for making a wand.
Wand making 101

Instructions for general wand/staff making:

1.) Harvest your wand or staff on the Waxing Moon. Some prefer to do this when the waxing moon is on a wednesday (this varies from tradition to tradition and person to person).  Make sure the size works for you. If you plan to shave it and trim it up a bit, do an extra inch or two longer to be on the safe side.

 *Note* There is a little ceremony to this, which you can find on the internet but it is usually done by speaking to the tree from your heart.

2.) Let the wood dry for about a month and then soak in tea for about an hour then let dry again for approx 8 hours. (This is to kill bugs and other pests in the wood that you don't want in your home.)

3.) Shave the bark if you are choosing to.

4.) Decorate to your specifications (do your wrappings, crystal mounting, etc...)

5.) Let it sit in the full moon for 1 night.

6.) Consecrate your wand or staff during a ritual to awaken it's energies and program it to you. Remember that the more you handle your wand or staff the more of your energy it contains.

7.) You are now ready to start your magic :)

Most importantly here, have fun and instill love in your wand or staff. Use it as frequently as you need to, and always show respect to it :)


Brightest Blessings!

Lady SilverVixen


The pictures are of my wand that a very dear friend who is like family to me, made me for my birthday. This is a more detailed wand example, but it's a beautiful one.

What has Vixen been up to?

Hey there guys

Sorry I haven't blogged in forever. I have been learning how to use photoshop and a few other programs to help me find work. Here's a few examples of what I have been up to


Created my business card with my friend's company

I created a new business logos

And lastly, I've been playing with Gif animation software (this was my first attempt. The image was originally still and had no moving effects. I added in the smoke, the reflective water, the butterfly and the stars)

Please feel free to use these if you want, just make sure you give me credit for my hard work. These things were not easy for me to make and took a lot of my own personal time to fix up the way i wanted them.

Just a short message from me to my readers

A Message from LSV

The world of magic is a rather weird place in this day and age. With so many different paths one can take it can be hard to find your own. Once you find it though, you can find joy and knowledge and know that your path is yours but that you can still learn other paths and why others follow them.

After reading the first 4 chapters of A.J. Drew’s book Wicca for Couples, he spoke about love, not necessarily in a sexual context but more as in a relationship based one. We make a lot of connections with people on a daily basis, but the ones that stick are the ones that spawn friendships, and sometimes even more, such as in the case of my husband and I.  What is to become of all the fertility religions in the world as they are now? Who can really say? I do know that in my path of Wicca there is a stronger emphasis now on the individual rather than the couple.

I read in this book to write a list of individual goddesses, then the gods, then the couples. Granted yes, I can name quite a few in each, his point was very clear to me. In Wicca, there is an emphasis put on the Goddess, then the God, then the Couples of God and Goddess. It’s true that Wicca isn’t perfect, and we are still evolving, but in which direction? Are we going in the way of putting emphasis on the individual, the group or the couple? I personally see where this is going, but there are a few who are standing up and point this problem out.

As I grow in the craft, and I learn and read more and more, I have found that I myself, have evolved away from the simple, God and Goddess ideology of them being separate. They really are equals, and despite what I have read, despite what I was taught and have learned through different studies, all paths have this problem, as all people have this problem. Mankind has been programmed to search out a mate, whether it’s a male and male, a female and female, or a male and a female.  We literally are programmed by nature to do this, it’s instinct for us. What we have forgotten is that relationships come in all forms, such in the case of friendships.

I took to the internet to observe this in a chat that I like. The way we interact in a chatroom and the way we act in real life away from the computer are two different things, however, the similarity between these two places, is that there are still friendships made. There is still love that is shared, and joy, and sadness.  Among all of these things though, I have to say just sitting back and watching how people interact with each other, although a favorite past time of mine, is always interesting. You see how people really feel, even on the internet. I watch people with such love and fondness that I see their joy in their messages back and forth, their tickled delightment over new lessons they learn. I also see their anger, and their sadness, and although some consider this dark, weird, creepy, etc… it really does pay off to keep silence sometimes.

The concept of keeping silence, doesn’t deal so much with actually being quiet, but more to do with taking time to embrace silence and observe those you care about. To see and feel what they are going through. To embrace their pain, their love, their joy and their excitement. I learn a lot through watching my friends on the computer as well as away from the computer. I get to feel their joy, I get to experience their pain and sadness, and I get to understand them on a deeper level.

So why am I telling you all this? Because it’s no different than dealing with the God and Goddess in their couple aspect, as lovers and as friends. There is nothing that brings me more joy than lying in the grass next to my beloved, and know that we are a representation of the Lord and Lady. I liked to think that there is a compassion, and thrill is laying with someone you care about, and just relaxing there. Can you feel the love of the universe when you lay beside your love? Can you feel and embrace the knowledge that we are our deities, we are their love represented in the physical? How mind blowing and loving is that? To know you are one with deity, is to embrace the true divinity within yourself. To express you love to a friend, to a lover, or even to someone you don’t know. I can understand why Christians do this to some extent, though you’ll never see me running around quoting spells and versus from the Egyptian Book of the Dead, I would love nothing more than to shout my love to the whole world, but then I know, I only have to whisper.

I only have to whisper my love to my husband, or to myself, or to the God and Goddess in all their loving glory. This is kind of sappy, and I know many of you will have difficulty relating to this, but those who do, I implore you look within yourself and find this love. I implore you to look at your friends, and those you don’t know and watch their interactions with each other. See the God and Goddess in these interactions and embrace them with kindness, compassion and love.  Love is Law, and Love will be with you in your path. Embrace it in all its forms. 

A Wiccan in the Classroom

A Wiccan in the Classroom

By: Lady SilverVixen

1/31/12

                There was once a little girl named Snowbright, and a little boy named Sunskeeper. They were brother and sister. Snowbright was a happy and talented little 7 year old, and her brother, Sunskeeper was a joyous and sneaky little 9 year old. Both attended the same elementary school, but sadly were in two different classes.

                Snowbright loved her teacher Mrs. Luna, who was from Italy. She was a perky woman who made learning so much fun for her. She taught her class about numbers…..how to write…..how to read….and about the natural world around them in science class. Snowbright just loved, Loved, LOVED going to school to see Mrs. Luna every morning.

                Sunskeeper however, was not so lucky. He didn’t like Mr. Rupert who seemed to yell at him all the time about the little star that hung around his neck.

                “You take that Devil’s symbol of your neck young man, right this minute!” he’d yell.

                “But Mr. Rupert...” Sunskeeper would start.

“No BUTS!” Mr. Rupert would say sternly.

This is why Sunskeeper wasn’t fond of Mr. Rupert. See though, that Mr. Rupert is not a bad man, he is a loving father, a caring husband, and a very faith-filled man who goes to church every Sunday. He does not understand or know about Sunskeeper’s faith. He thinks the little star is the symbol of evil and the Devil.

The kids began taunting Sunskeeper, and at recess, Snowbright as well. They would yell at them

“Devils kid, Devils kid!” and “You’ll burn in hell!”

After several months of this, and feeling singled out by the kids who taunted him and his sister, Sunskeeper went to his mother and father and told them. He cried in his mother’s arms while his father was in an outrage. His dad paced back and forth, back and forth, back and forth. Finally he came to a stop.

“I will go and have a talk with both teachers and the principal of this school.” His father said. “They need to be educated that it is not okay to say such cruel things.”

This made Sunskeeper feel better. Snowbright, who was standing around the corner, gave a heavy sigh of relief to know she was not going to get picked on anymore.

The following day, as their father had said, he went to the school during his children’s lunch, with his wife on his heels. The principal, Mrs. Luna and Mr. Rupert were all waiting for them in the main office in a little room.

“Please, Come in Mr. and Mrs. Suade” said the principal, “We have been waiting for you.”

Together they found their seats across from the teachers and sat with a few books and pamphlets.

“So it has come to my attention that the teachers here have not been kind to your children, and neither have the other kids in their classes.” Stated the principal.

“The children tell us they are being picked on every day during their recess.” Said Mrs. Suade.

“Oh My!” exclaimed Mrs. Luna. “I wish Snowbright would have said something to me.”

“She can be rather shy sometimes” replied Mrs. Suade.

“The main reason we are here is our son Sunskeeper” Mr. Suade chimed in.

“Oh?” asked the principal. “I understand he has had some issues of late listening to his teacher Mr. Rupert here.” He said.

“It was brought to our attention that Mr. Rupert was telling our son that he wore the devil’s mark around his necklace.” Said Mr. Suade.

“He is! That child has Devil written all over him!” Cried out Mr. Rupert.

“Well now, that is enough of that!” exclaimed the principal in a very angry tone. “None of the children in this school are of the Devil Mr. Rupert, and I would ask you kindly to keep such negative comments to yourself.”

“I see that our son was telling us the truth.” Mrs. Suade said to Mr. Suade.

“We have brought some reading material to educate Mr. Rupert here, on what a Wiccan is.” Mr. Suade stated firmly.

“Wiccan?” asked Mrs. Luna. “What is that if I may ask?”

“Wicca is a nature based religion that honors a Male and Female Deity.” Mrs. Suade said calmly. “We practice no harm against anyone.”

“It is the Devil in disguise” Mr. Rupert blurted.

“We do not believe in a Devil sir.” Mr. Suade said. “You do not know much about our faith do you?” he asked.

“No I do not. The Bible tells me what I need to know about people like you, and that’s all I need.” Mr. Rupert said firmly.

“Well, tell us what you know about “people like us” “Mrs. Suade said casually.

“You eat children, and you sacrifice babies and animals. I have half a mind to call child protective services on you both for forcing your children to practice such a dangerous cult.” Said Mr. Rupert.

Mr. and Mrs. Suade laughed.

“Sir, we do not eat children.” Mrs. Suade said still chuckling. “We honor a loving Mother, who like any can be a little cruel but does not want us to eat children. Live and Let to Live, is what we practice dear.”

“We do not sacrifice children or animals either.” Mr. Suade said stepping in to the conversation. “We sacrifice the bad habits and negative parts of ourselves so that we may better ourselves and those around us.”

“Our children are still early in their studies of Wicca too.” Said Mrs. Suade, taking over again. “They learn with several other children about their ages, from teachers, like your-selves. Sunskeeper is getting ready to come of age in the next few years and chose to learn himself. We have not forced our children to learn our faith, that is their choice and theirs alone. “

“We also are not a dangerous cult.” Mr. Suade said. “We are trying to live with the Earth, and we respect her for what she has given us. We let people come to us as their path pulls them. No one who practices with us is there against their will.”

“Well you use daggers and swords, and according to your son there are fights twice a year.” Mr. Rupert retorted.

With a chuckle Mrs. Suade said “Yes, that is true. We do not let the children handle these items though. The Dagger you are referring to is the Athame. It is a ritual blade in which energy is directed, the blade does not come in contact with flesh. It is not intended to be used to cause harm. The Sword is for outside only, and the children know not to touch this as well, and as in the case of the Athame, it too is not intended for harm, only energy direction. The battles you are referring to are at the Summer Solstice and Winter Solstice. This is when the Holly King, and Oak King battle. The Holly King represents the sun weakening in strength, and the Oak King where the sun is gaining strength. They battle twice a year when the Sun is at its peak of strength and weakness.”

“That is so fascinating.” Mrs. Luna Chimed in.

“These are times of great celebration.” Mr. Suade said.

Mr. Rupert remained quiet.

“Mr. Rupert, we have a few books and pamphlets that are rather short and easy to read. They offer a basic understanding of our faith and what we are really about.” Mr. Suade stated.

“I would love to have one of the pamphlets and a book too, if you don’t mind.” Mrs. Luna said.

“Absolutely!” Mrs. Suade exclaimed.

They pass the books and pamphlets to the teachers and sat quietly for a moment.

The principal was the first to speak. “I hope this clears up the matter. Mr. Rupert, Mrs. Luna, you can go back to teaching your classes, but I want to hear no more about the bullying of these fine peoples children. Mr. Rupert, no more Bible in the classroom. There is a separation of church and state for a reason, so let us keep it that way. You are lucky you do not lose your job over this.”

A few months go by and there are no problems.

One day, Mr. Rupert pulls Sunskeeper to the side and hands him the books and pamphlet his parents gave him.

“I would like to apologize to you Sunskeeper. I didn’t realize how loving your faith is. It is not my faith, but I respect you for following your heart and keeping the message of love in everything you do. Make sure these books get back to your folks alright?”

“Yes sir.” Said Sunskeeper happily. “Sir, I knew you weren’t a bad person. Many people do not understand my faith, just as many do not yours. I am glad you have learned from this experience, as what my teachers tell me, Learning is a Never Ending Experience!”

Mr. Rupert smiled and patted Sunskeeper’s head. “That is very true, and do not forget it”

Mrs. Luna also surprised Snowbright on this day. She came dressed up in a beautiful Moon Goddess outfit.

“Today class we are going to talk about tolerance, and bullying. I have requested many guest speakers to arrive today and I hope you give them your full attention.” She said cheerfully.

As she walked by Snowbright’s desk, she sat the books down. “Make sure these go back to your parents and let them know I’ll see them on Saturday.”

Snowbright smiled. It was going to be a great school year.

Mr. Rupert’s class joined Mrs. Luna’s that day. The guests came in and each was a different race and religion.  The kids learned much that day, and everything went smoothly for both Snowbright and Sunskeeper for the rest of the year. The children who originally picked on them, stopped. Mrs. Luna was in Snowbrights life for the next several years until she graduated. They all had a joyous school experience.

So you see; school can be a little bumpy when you are different. Whether it’s the color of your skin, your faith, or where you grow up. When you keep love in your heart, and your friends and family close, you can overcome any obstacle. Remember to live and let live, keep your family close, and always keep love in your heart.

Wicca for Couples- My New Read

Right now, between School, Occupy, Marriage, family life, etc... I have picked up the wonderful book Wicca for Couples: Making Magick Together by A.J. Drew. I'm currently reading the introduction and first chapter. I am completely entranced by the book so far, and there was one quote that inspired me to make this post, it is: 

"As many will point out, being loved is SALVATION from the darkest parts of our souls"-A.J. Drew from Wicca for Couples



It is so true that as humans we are always looking for that other half of us. We are always in search of love, unless we get married and have a happy relationship with your spouse (this applies to everyone, not just straight married couples, as I am a firm believer that a union such as marriage remains sacred so long as it is between two people who love each other).

Wicca has provided all of us the unique position to really dive deeply into the interactions between our masculine and feminine, as well as the masculine and feminine in our interactions 

with those we love, and the other relationships we create at any given time. 

See, one doesn't have to have sex to understand the union of the sacred masculine and the sacred feminine, they only need to look in a mirror to see it within themselves. It's this action between our energies and another that creates the union of life (though a little nooky does go a long way ^_~ lol).


To my readers who have stumbled across this, or read my blog and it's random spontaneous posts, I have a dare for you. I am daring you to take 5 minutes (or more)  EVERYDAY for 1, just 1 week and really look at your own interactions between the masculine and feminine in yourself, then look at them within others that you interact with. Not a people person? Then watch the interactions between other people. Record your findings and see where they can take you next, afterall, I can't give you all the answers, how else would you learn through your experiences? hehehe

Dear Reader

Dear Reader,

Wicca as we know it today is nothing like what the media portrays it to be. We work harmoniously with each other and the Earth.  There is nothing more irritating to many Wiccans than the common misconceptions that many people have. Some of these misconceptions are: that we are green; we cast curses for the fun of it; there are no repercussions to our actions; we are devil worshipers; etc… What is always interesting about Wiccans though is that you can ask 10 of us what Wicca means to us and how personally define it and you will get 10 different but similar answers. This isn’t to say they aren’t the same definitions, as they usually are, but we all define it slightly differently based on the tradition or lack of tradition we all follow.

So what is Wicca to Lady SilverVixen? To me, Wicca is not only religious view but it’s a personal way of life. It’s the change of one’s view on the way things work, why they work, and why people may act the way they do. It’s a personal change in how you actually live, because you are more aware of how you influence your surroundings, and the kind of footprint you leave behind.  It’s a change on how you may view your family, and how you view the cycles of life. Before I became Wiccan I used to just view the seasons as just seasons, always knowing there was a deeper meaning that can be expressed but never actually knowing what it was. It was a huge change of view for me to view the cycle of the seasons as a time of new life, to middle life, older life and then death. To view the times of death with hope and joy to know there is new life on the way. Nothing is left over, everything is recycled.

I can talk and ramble out general 101 stuff all day long. I know because I do it online all the time, opportunity provided of course. I teach this stuff and know it like the back of my own hand. The most thrilling part of teaching the 101 though is working with different students, and reading the new 101 books that come out because you always get a new opportunity to view old material from a different perspective. There’s about 5 different ways that I’ve learned to cast a circle that hadn’t learned in my original training, one of which I came up with based on an idea presented to me by a student. So even those teaching you, the ones who are reading this, they too can learn from you and any other students they may have.

I walk the path of the Goddess every day. I may not keep my blogs up to date, or check my facebook regularly, or even do rituals or spells on a daily basis, but I do honor the Lord and Lady in my own way. I say a prayer at least once a day to ask for blessings for my family and friends, including those who have forgotten me, ignore me, hate me, and for those that I may one day meet. Walking the path of the Goddess is: loving everyone despite how nasty they may be to you; for all acts of love and joy are her rituals.  It may be a hard road, but I walk it in faith every day. I walk it knowing that no matter what happens, or when it happens, there is a reason behind it. I hope that I leave this world one day in a better shape than what I was brought into it to find what it has become today.

To touch one person’s life in a positive way is to embrace the universe in all its majesty and be one with the Goddess for a brief moment.  So I say to you, question everything, love unconditionally, long and yearn for knowledge, and always remember that forgiveness and love are easier to give than it is to waste your time filling your heart with Hate. Embrace the path that you are pulled to follow, whether it is Wicca, Christianity or any religious path (or lack thereof) but always keep love and faith in your heart.

Sincerely,

Lady SilverVixen

Poppets

Poppets- by Lady SilverVixen

Poppets have been used throughout the ages since mankind learned to sew. Poppets are small dolls that take on the resemblence of an individual, whether it be yourself or someone else. They serve multiple purposes as well, from protection to healing, and revenge to love. Poppet magic is especially effective because of the psychological effect it can have on the person the doll represents. Dolls can be made of Cloth, Clay, Roots, Woods, or even in a pinch, paper.

Poppets come in a range in sizes as well as designs. Below is just one of many patterns one can choose from when making a poppet. (remember when using a pattern like the one provided, you have to trace out 2 copies of the doll on fabric so you have the front and back of the doll.)

Now of course there is more to making a poppet than just some general tracing on fabric, stitching it together and then stuffing it with cotton. Some other alternatives you can do are: stuff the poppet with herbs, annoint the poppet with oils, or add hair and clothes (or you can do all of these depending on the purpose and intent behind the doll). You can also place tags in/on the doll as well. A Tag is an object that either belongs to the individual, or something that creates a connection to the individual. These can add extra energy to your poppet magic.

Now that your poppet is all made and stitched together, the fun begins. You now have to name your poppet. The name can be a nick name you have for the person, or the persons actual name. The more personalized the doll the better.

Once the poppet has it's name it's time to bring it to life.

You can mark out a cross or a pentacle (depending on your religious beliefs any symbol that means life to you), in the air with your dominant hand over the poppet.

Say:

" (Poppet's name) You are,

And (poppet's name) to me,

Now point at the head and heart of the poppet and with strong conviction say:

"You will always and ever be"

Now hold the poppet in your hands, resting it on your non-dominant hand.

Say: "Creature of the elements, I give to you life from that which you are made of. Your purpose of creation is ___ (state your purpose)___. For this reason you were made, and only when I, your creator, feel you are no longer need, I will return you to the elements from which you came. So I have said, So I will it to be so"

IMPORTANT!!! Take really good care of your poppet when not in use. The last thing you want is to accidentally drop it and break it, or set fire to it etc. Wrap it in white cloth and keep it somewhere safe. To dispose of a poppet, dig a deep hole and bury it. Be sure to sever the magickal link between the poppet and the person before disposing of.

This information was shared in the good faith that no reader will use this to bring harm to another.

Remember that you can use herbs, oils, moon phases and even extra spells you write yourself to add extra boosts to your poppet. Take care of your poppet and enjoy the fun of poppet making.