A Witch's Sacred Journey

Sacred Altars

Posted on October 20, 2014 by themagickalpen

Oak and Willow Coven, ASW: Beltane 2014

” As above ~ So below”
The microcosm within the macrocosm

When we set up sacred space to do ritual there is generally a central or main altar that is placed in the center of the space. This altar serves as the central core that contains the physical representations of the energy and element to which it is aligned. The items placed on the altar are often laid out to reflect and align with the cardinal directions. Your altar may be round – a reflection of the continuum of the natural cycle or square – a statement of the equilateral foundation upon which all magick is built. Think of the altar as being divided into four quadrants; each aligned with a specific cardinal direction.

An Altar Checklist

These are some of the items you may wish to place on your altar:

• Ritual Tools – each representing one of the four elements and placed on the altar in the quadrant which it corresponds to.
• Candles representing the Light within and or to represent the spark of Divinity that is being called as God or Goddess.
• Seasonal items such as pumpkins for Samhain, holly leaves for Yule, spring flowers for Ostara, etc.
• Your Book of Shadows/journal and writing tool.
• Any thing you feel called to place on your altar that will enhance the visual experience of the ritual.

Ritual altars are just one form of creating these pockets of sacred space. Altars can be created for a variety of purposes; devotional, personal workings, meditation and more.

There is no right or wrong way to create your sacred space. The important thing is to be creative and to place on your altar what truly and deeply calls to you. This is how the greater connection is made to the inner workings of the ritual and the Divine.

Consider this a photo album of reference for creating your own beautiful space of the Sacred. The seasonal altars pictured were used in Oak and Willow Coven’s Sabbat celebrations unless otherwise noted. Enjoy!

Celebrations of the Sabbats

Yule/Winter Solstice

Imbolc

Ostara/Vernal Equinox

Photo Stock Image

Beltane

Litha/Summer Solstice

Lammas/Lughnasaadh

Mabon/Autumnal Equinox

Mabon Air Altar

Mabon Fire Altar

Samhain

Offering Space to the Ancestors (Dumb Supper)

Cerridwen’s Cauldron

Underworld Altar

Workshop Altars

I teach several workshops throughout the year and like to add the component of altars to enhance the visual experience. Most of these were multi-wk. courses so there were different altars relevant to each week’s material covered.

Temple of the Moon
A Workshop of Study of all things Lunar

A Day within the Qabalistic Tree
This altar was used for the ritual to simulate rising through the Tree of Life and each level of the Sephiroth. A day-long intensive.

An Introduction to Esoteric Astrology

Aligning the Parts of Self

A Walk Through the Major Arcana
A Day-Long Intensive

Meditation for the Magickal Practitioner

Awakening the Energetic SELF

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The Gates of Light

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Devotional Altars

Devotional Altar- The Fires of Lugh

A Healing Altar for Brighid

Devotional: Egyptian
A Personal Ritual of Awakening

Personal Ritual

A Ritual of Dedication: Temple of the Moon

Alternate Altar Spaces

Window Sill Spaces

Beltane Windowsill Altar

Consecration of Tools Windowsill

Devotional

Shoe Box Altars (The Shoebox is Underneath!)

Book Shelf Altars

An Altar of Sound Honoring Het-Heru

Portable Altars

Kundalini Altar

Lunar Altar

Floor Meditation

Fire Altar

Altar for a Tarot Reading

Solar Altar

An Altar of the Faery Gate

Next Week
Foundations for Practice – A Ritual for 6 Month

Posted in YAD-Lesson Six, Year and A Day Course | Tagged Altars, devotional, Esbats, Sabbats | 1 Comment

The Components of Ritual

Posted on October 14, 2014 by themagickalpen

As you move through each section of a ritual you are creating layer upon layer of replications of the elements and energies of the natural world and then taking each of these replications and refining their energetic representation as the ritual progresses. This is what is often called “rising on the planes”. You are, essentially raising your own energetic vibration and all that you have brought into ritual space with you as you move closer towards connecting with the Universal flow of the Gods and Goddesses.

The format I have used below is what our Tradition uses as a basic ritual protocol. You can certainly add or subtract as you wish based on the type of ritual you are planning. This is meant to serve as a generic template and as you become more familiar with creating sacred space and ritual work the more you personalize it the more resonance will occur between yourself and the intent.

* Preparation and Set-up

Even before the ritual begins, the energetic tone and mood of the intended space and the participants should be shifting towards one of focus upon the work at hand. The steps that are taken in preparing the actual ritual space and the getting into the “head space” are equally as important as what actually occurs in the ritual. In fact, these steps of preparation can serve to enhance or weaken the energy of the space and the results of the working.

As you set –up the working space, such as central altar, any other things you wish to have present, etc. hold in mind what the intent of the ritual is. Hold in your mind the care and careful planning and organizing that is going into making the ritual successful and meaningful. Take your time and lovingly and with care place each item where it is to be within the ritual space as you inwardly establish a connection to everything that has been placed. One of the most important, although at times overlooked pieces of this process is a clearing away of clutter and general cleanliness of the area you are going to use. Your space does not need to be large and grandiose, but it should be clean and uncluttered, as a statement that this space will be used for important and extra-ordinary work and as such should present in a suitable manner to receive the energies of the Gods and elements.

Your personal preparation can take many forms. Carefully and with intent putting on your ritual robe or other garment set aside only for use in sacred space, placing a special amulet about your neck, or if time allows, taking a shower and envisioning all of the day’s worries, cares and mundane energy washing away from you in preparation for magickal work are some of the things you may wish to try.

Bottom Line– it’s all about getting your mind, body, emotions and Spirit readied to connect with the energies you will be using.

* Grounding and Purification

Grounding: The process of grounding before ritual implies that you will be activating the channel of connection that is already present within us. This is the connection of our physical being to earth and our Spiritual Self to the heavens above. As we move through our daily activities, that connection often is unfelt and pushed aside to accommodate all the other things that draw our attention. When we take the time to ground ourselves before entering sacred space, it is a physical cue to our minds that we are now opening ourselves to what the Universe may hold and that for this temporary span of time the onslaught of mental and mundane chatter is going to be put on hold. See the sample below for a grounding meditation that we often use prior to our coven rituals:

Stand with your feet placed firmly and directly underneath your hip bones with knees slightly bent and relaxed. Your spine is elongated and your shoulders are relaxed with your head resting gently on top. Bring your awareness to the rhythm of your breath; the filling of your lungs and the gentle exhale. Each exhalation releases another bit of tension from the day’s activities. These fall about you like droplets of water and ay that need to be picked up again will be there for you after your magickal work is completed.

As you continue to breathe, imagine a line of energy connecting you to the ground beneath the floor on which you are standing. Each breath in draws the grounding energy from the Great Mother up into your being. This energy of life moves progressively upwards, moving through your feet into the lower legs, up into the pelvic region, up into the belly, up into the heart center- the throat and finally passing up and through the crown chakra. As you continue to draw this energy upwards, it extends towards the sky above. Imagine that you are like the branches of a tree, extending and reaching heavenward in the great expanse of the sky.

You feel wholly and completely connected to the grounding of the earth and the limitless expanse of sky above. Breathe in this energy and breathe out a cascading flow of energy that sustains, connects and prepares you as you enter sacred space.

~ So Mote It Be ~

Purification: The idea of purification in association with sacred space is one of aligning one’s energies with the four alchemical elements with which we will work. It is also a “marking” of the physical vehicle-that of our body- that we are using to connect with those energies. The use of the term “purification” in a Wiccan sense is not to imply that we are less than or need to be made clean and holy. It is, however a call to that “pure” state of being that is inherent within. That place of innocence and great wisdom, the negative and the positive working in an integrated state of balance and the complete and unquestionable gnosis that we are part of the greater whole of Divinity.

Purification may take the form of incense or a smudging stick (Air and Fire) and salt infused water (Water and Earth) or a special Oil blend, which depending on the ingredients can be a cohesive union of each of the Four alchemical elements in one. The materials for purification are often placed at the corner of the space that will be used for the celebration or working.

The next step is that of creating sacred space by Casting the Circle and calling the energies of the quarter elements into their respective locations in the ritual space. A compass comes in handy when determining where the cardinal directions are located in the space to be used. Determine and mark the locations of East, South, West and North. Often, small altars are set up in each of the spaces with items selected that align with the energy of Air, Fire, Water and Earth. Check out the supplemental posts for:

Casting the Circle

Scribing the sphere of art defines the space that will be the vessel for the working, and

Calling the Energies of the Quarters

Calling the quarter energies brings in the refined dynamics and energies of those four basic elements.

* Statement of Intent

The statement of intent gives voice to what the focus of the ritual and its intended outcomes are. The importance of this component is that it is a declaration made and witnessed by those seen and unseen (Deity and Energies of the Elements). With that in mind, be mindful of what you declare, what you are asking for and what you offer in return.

Sample Statement for a Beltane Ritual….

At this season of heat, passion and the union of the male and female polarities we celebrate the fertility of the season. We celebrate the passions within ourselves that long to find their compliment and we offer the promise of maintaining and nurturing that heat within that is the unified Divine Spark that connects us to the God and Goddess. May their union be blessed and fruitful as is ours.

~ So Mote it be~

* Invocation

The act of invocation is one of inviting Deity to be present. To invoke is to call to one’s self the specific energies that are desired. This is a process that contains the emphasis that what you are calling resides outside of you (versus Evocation, which draws upon those energies and dynamics of archetype that are within your own state of consciousness). To invoke is an invitation to a particular Deity or Deities to be present, to witness and to potentially offer assistance in whatever the predetermined focus of the ritual may be. For example, for our Lammas ritual we invoke the Goddess as the Great Mother from whose bounty we reap the harvest. We invoke the God as the Great Horned God, protector of the animals and natural world and guardian of the bounty the harvest provides.

At Brighid (Imbolc) we invoke Brighid, Goddess of the Triple Flame, healer and bringer of light and life. And we invoke the God as Lugh, spear of fire, and the forger of our Will.

If no specific God or Goddess is needed, the charges below serve to call the energies of God and Goddess in their many forms. Specifically, the Charge of the Goddess is often used during Esbat rituals, as the range of archetypal energies needed vary in accord with the phase and astrological considerations of the lunation. Review the Charges:

Charge of the Goddess
Charge of the God

** This topic also brings to mind the often times multi-opinioned subject of whether one demands or invites the Deities to be present. Although there are occasions where a stronger desire and need for the specific energies and help of a specific deity may be required; and thus a statement in the invocation may be made for them to be present without question on their part, even these types of supplication should be made as invite rather than demand. Even with invite, it is entirely, and rightfully so, within the prerogative of the Deity as to whether they wish to present. By placing the request in the form of an invitation with the potential for connection and blessing, you are more likely to be heard, for it has been done with respect and sincerity.

* Celebration and/or Magickal Working
Sabbats

Please review the WHEEL OF THE YEAR (Lesson Four) for ideas you may wish to include in the components of your celebratory ritual.

Esbats

Esbats align with the monthly lunar cycles. These are also reflections of the Goddess as she moves through her triune phases of Maiden (New Moon) – Mother (Full Moon) and Crone (Dark Moon). We will discuss the Esbats in more detail in Lesson Nine. If you would like a sample of an Esbat Ritual of Dedication check out:

Temple of the Moon: Ritual of Dedication

* Cakes and Ale
The Great Rite

The Great Rite is the union of the God and Goddess as symbolized by the powerful energies of fertility and fecundity. It is magick in its most potent form as it draws from the seed of the phallic God and the catalytic womb of the Great Mother, combining those energies to manifest life-giving energy.

In ritual magick this act may be symbolically carried out in representation of the magickal tools of the athame (phallus/masculine) being submerged into the chalice (womb/feminine). Traditionally this is performed by the High Priest and the High Priestess as God and Goddess (or those members within the ritual who have invoked or aspected the God and Goddess) and accompanied by the statement (or slight variation upon). If the ritual is a solitary one, this may be done by placing the chalice on a flat surface and holding your athame in your hand. In this way you are calling upon the polarities within yourself:

As the chalice is to the woman (High Priestess or Female)
And the athame is to the male (High Priest or Male)
Their union is in perfect Love and perfect Trust (both together)
So Mote It Be!

This signifies within the ritual space that the combined and polarized energies of God and Goddess are working through the magick that has been worked and the union of those energies will be fruitful and blessed.

Another compelling reason for inclusion of physically eating and drinking something is that if sufficient energy has been raised during your ritual, the act of eating and drinking something will align your energies and draw them back into a space of grounding. It is for this reason that there will often be a feast after the ritual so that the return to normal consciousness and grounded connection to the physical can continue the stabilizing process. In our coven work, ale is often apple juice. We do not normally use an alcoholic beverage as everyone’s tolerance is different. If you are doing solitary work and wish to have wine or, as was traditionally used mead (a sweetened honey wine similar to ale). Cakes can be cookies, or to ground the energy more quickly a small piece of dark quality chocolate can be used. Oatcakes, scones, etc. are also other options.

* Dismissal and Thanks

This is the final stage of the ritual. Expressing gratitude to the energies and beings that were present is of the utmost importance. It also sets up a space of gratitude that will cycle and return and extend multifold. Gratitude is one of the most potent of emotions and used in a way of magick creates the container for more opportunities for gratitude to cycle through.

The dismissal is releasing the sacred space that was created and used. The pattern is the reverse of the casting in that you thank and close the energies of the Elemental Gates, beginning and ending back in the East; each in turn and then move again around the circle clockwise (Deosil) drawing back into and through the Athame the blue flame of the circle casting. As you move around the circle again imagine the blue flame of energy thinning and being drawn back down into the earth. Be sure to eat and drink something substantial to allow your energy to ground and center as well.

Foundations of Practice
Journaling: Writing Your Quarter Calls

Next Week
Sacred Altars

Oak and Willow Coven: Beltane 2014

Posted in YAD-Lesson Six, Year and A Day Course | Tagged calling the quarters, casting the circle, Esbats, grounding, invocation, purification, Ritual, Sabbats, statement of intent, Wheel of the Year | 2 Comments

Casting the Circle

Posted on October 14, 2014 by themagickalpen

Before we enter the space that is to hold our circle, the preparations leading up to the actual crossing of the threshhold into what will become sacred space serves to make ready for the shift in energy, dynamics and consciousness that we hope to achieve. The casting of the circle takes that prepared space and transforms it into the appropriate container to hold the energies that will be used. There are many ways in which to cast a circle; but the basic goal is to enclose a working space within a sphere of energy that will be sufficient to hold the energetic patterns of the work to be done.

The actual scribing of the circle is symbol of the continuum of all natural cycles and the seamless construct that connects all time and matter. Toning “Om” while the circle is being scribed adds the component of sound to elevate the vibrations naturally occurring from the movement of tracing the circle by the caster. During the process of the designated person casting the circle energy is directed towards that individual to blend and intertwine as bolster to what the caster is already connecting with and generating. If you think of the circle as a sphere, each strand of energy being sent from those standing along the perimeter of that sphere are like spokes of a wheel which all meet centrally and feed into yet another and smaller circle within the very core.

Igniting the Blue Fire

The energy that is directed towards the individual casting the circle is often described as blue flame. Why a blue flame? Science provides one part of the answer…

Question: Which flame is best for laboratory procedures blue flame or yellow flame?

Answer: In Organic Chemistry Flames have different areas of temperature. Even in an ordinary candle, the temperatures are separated into several different regions. The regions are also separated by color, the blue region (the innermost part of the flame) being the hottest. This shows there is not one precise temperature for a blue flame. A blue flame is typically much hotter than a yellow flame. Sometimes you want to heat something very hot, and sometimes you want to heat something gently… and so you can choose which part of the flame best suits the purpose! It depends what you want to do!

From: The Physics Factbook™.Edited by Glenn Elert

The work of the circle is to form a point in time and space where all may converge towards a place of transformation. It is alchemy in its form and the principles of alchemy are the stuff from which many of the protocols and principles of mundane science are derived. The hottest point of the flame is both the meeting inwards of what feeds that flame and the combustible outpouring of what generates or initiates the flame. So too, the casting of the circle is the initial thrust of energy which then feeds and fuels itself from the central place of Spirit.

From a Qabalistic Perspective we could liken the color and dynamics of the blue fire of the circle to the energies and dynamics of the sphere Chesed:

“Chesed is the last sphere ascending the Tree before crossing the abyss (Da’at) that separates the pure Divine essence of the Supernal (Godhead) Spheres of the Tree. Its energy is that of coalescent, refined and summation of experience afforded the spheres leading up to this point. This sphere is often considered the Hall of the Masters; the point where choice is made to either remain to serve humanity or to ascend beyond the realm of physical expression and be fully reabsorbed into the source of all creation. Descending the Tree, Chesed is the first sphere of actuality. The point where flow and form have merged and the juncture that is the beginning of the work towards actualizing the concept or idea of manifestation may begin in its journey into a place of reality.” (Excerpted from The Inner Chamber-Volume Two: Poetry of the Spheres)

If we take into account the energies and attributes of Chesed these are easily framed within the context of a magickal circle. We are creating a space that carries within it the memory and gnosis of all that was, is and will be. We are connecting with the Universal Mind and storehouse and bringing it into a contained space where it may be used and accessed in accord with the intent of the ritual via the understanding of the magic worker. We have also, hopefully gained enough mastery over our physical being to raise sufficient energy for an effective circle and done the necessary research into who and what we wish to have present for our ritual.

Blue of Healing

Blue is also considered to be a color of healing, the waters that hold the energies of the tides and the beauty of the sky. All of these dynamics are present within the circle of casting. There can be great healing (at all levels of being) that occurs in connecting with Divinity. The ebb and flow of the waters within and comprising a large portion of our body intimately connect us to the ebb and flow of energy that presents itself within the circle and the limitless nature of the sky and what it holds above are the pinnacles towards which we strive as we do ritual, declare sacred space and work our magick.

When you observe someone casting a circle it appears as though they are moving around the perimeter and tracing a single circular line of energy. In reality, the casting of a circle is more like a sphere. The energy of the working is contained on all sides in all directions at once and simultaneously at all ends and all points along the continuous curve. This also the relevance of “as above, so below” and the rising of the vibrations and threads of energy as the working progresses are mirrored back to one another. It is again a mirror like reflection of the microcosm within the macrocosm. A sphere that is moving through the planes of time and space that is “not a specific time, nor a specific place; but a breath that is between the worlds”.

How to:
Generally one person is selected to do the casting of the circle and the calling of the quarter energies. Traditionally the circle is scribed with the Athame, but you may also use a wand, staff, crystal, sword (although a bit risky and unwieldy) or your index finger. Sending energy the individual casting. If it is a group working, the remaining participants take hands, sending a stream of energy from one to the other and forming an inner circle. Of if it is a solo working, you would be doing the casting and calling.

Moving Deosil (clockwise/sunwise) around the circle and beginning in the East, the caster draws in breath and energy from his/her central core (remember we did the grounding prior and formed an energetic balance of earth and sky. It is from this blending that the energy is drawn to cast or lend support to the casting of the circle) and begins the tracing of the circle with right arm outstretched holding the Athame. Visualize the blue flame of energy pouring out and through the tip of the blade and filling the space as you walk slowly around the perimeter of the circle. If group work, the person casting should be in the outermost area of the perimeter with those participants held within the center of the circle. Continue around the circle breathing gently into the energy as it streams forth until you arrive once again at the East.

Now you will be calling the quarter energies in to the sphere of art. Some traditions will fold the calling of the quarters and the casting of the circle into one singular pass around the circle. In this form; beginning in the East, you would invite the energies of the quarters into the circle; open the Gates of that quarter and then draw that energy around the circle as you stop at each quarter in turn. Again, you would end in the East. Personally, I prefer to establish the boundaries of the space and then invite the energies of the Elements or Deities into the prepared and readied space.

A final note for consideration: As with all magickal work, casting a circle takes practice. Because there are multiple levels of understanding and expertise that formulate the final product- a Circle of Art, as it is sometimes called- the more information you have about first and foremost – YOURSELF – the more effective any magickal working will be.
If you are a novice, take each piece of casting the circle a part and spend some time reflecting on how each of those pieces relate to you and your physical, emotional, mental and spiritual natures. For example: What does the image of the blue flame mean to you. Are you able to easily visualize this color and also hold the sensation of what that specific energy may feel like? Change the color to yellow or red- does it feel the same, is there any sound that is emanating from this color and form?

As you walk what you have established as the perimeter of the circle, what thoughts move through you as you take each step? What other sensations are you experiencing. The first steps towards learning how to direct energy are taken in learning as much as you can about its natural generator, container and conduit- YOU!

Back to: The Components of Ritual

Posted in YAD-Lesson Six, Year and A Day Course | 2 Comments

Calling the Energies of the Quarters

Posted on October 14, 2014 by themagickalpen

If you look in any book on magickal practice or on the internet and you will quite easily find all manner of prose for calling or inviting the energies of the cardinal quarters into your sacred space. The positive in this is that it gives a variety of personalization and adaptation to you to use as points of comparison for your own versions suited specifically to your working. This very benefit is also the biggest detriment. Simply reciting a call to the energies because you thought it was powerful, well written or sounded very mysterious and “witchy” is reckless. Moreover, words – more so, when spoken in ritual have Great and lasting power. So, before you invite anything into your ritual space take the time to get to KNOW concretely, accurately and precisely what those alluring words mean; WHAT types of energies and beings are being asked to attend and assist and WHY. Then, once you have familiarized yourself with what is being used, decide if those calls are correct for what you wish to accomplish.

So, with those words of caution out of the way, where do you start. If you are a novice to the work, begin with what you already know something about, namely, the basics dynamics and qualities of the four elements as they are found in nature and as we have discussed in Lesson Two: The Natural World.

Go back and reread what type of energy each of the elements offers. We know the generalities of each:

East = Air = Mind
South = Fire = Will, Desire and Action
West = Water = Emotions, Intuition and Flow
North = Earth = Our physical bodies, Foundations and Fertility

In magickal practice the elements are one of the key components in ritual; serving as the quarter gateways and at times the underlying principle of focus for the intent of the ritual. Quarter calls invoke or call into ritual space the energies of each of the four foundational elements. Each of the quarters is opened and closed by inscribing a pentagram.

As you saw above each of the points of the pentagram is associated with a particular element. Typically, when you begin the ritual and call in the energies of the element, you will inscribe a pentagram that begins at the point of Spirit (see invoking below) and ends at Earth. This signifies a drawing into the manifest realm the energies and attributes if the Divine and Higher worlds. When ending the ritual and thanking and releasing the energies of the elements back to their realms the pentagram is drawn from the point of Earth (see banishing below) and returning back to the realm of the Divine.

In Creation of the Invoking Pentagram:

SPIRIT drawn to EARTH infused with love WATER enriched by knowledge AIR readied for the will and action FIRE as it rises towards Spirit

In Creation of the Banishing Pentagram:

EARTH moves back to SPIRIT purified by FIRE open to the inspiration/knowledge of AIR transformed by the love and intuition of WATER causing manifestation on EARTH

What are we calling into our circle?

When we invite the elements to be present in our ritual space we are calling to the Pure essence of that particular energy’s qualities to blend and integrate into a whole. Just as the elements are within our physical bodies and the physical world surrounding us, so too are the refined essences and beings of those realms within the space of the magickal circle and the planes to which it has risen.

Elemental Kings, Elementals, Archangels and other beings will be discussed more in future lessons; but in brief it is not advisable to call into the space the elementals or their Kings in beginning magick practice. Just as you would not invite someone you barely know to an intimate evening of activities, you should not call into your working magickal space any energies with which you are not familiar, have not researched thoroughly and have had practice in working with. To do so with intent towards magickal outcome could have negative implications if the energy being called is not aligned with what you had in mind.

Sample Quarter Calls for a Healing Ritual

*The Quarter Calls given below as example were written for a Healing ritual. Therefore, the calls to the energies of the Western Gate are longer, more inclusive of what is desired and central in theme. The calls to the other quarters are reflective in support of the watery element of Healing. Had this been a ritual of Fire, determination and Will the emphasis would have been on the Southern Gate.

Opening the Gates

East – Air

Eastern Gate – hold fast and firm
We call forth Water of Air
Intuitive Self -bourne of ancient wisdom
The Gate of the East is Open
We bid you Hail and Welcome

South – Fire

Southern Gate – hold fast and firm
We call forth Water of Fire
The burning away, so that healing may begin
The Gate of the South is Open
We bid you Hail and Welcome

West – Water

Gates of True Sight and Compassion
Silver crescent of the Moon reflected in our Being
We bid you open and call forth your renewing healing energies
that all may become whole
Within your waters we seek the power of healing release sustained by love
And empowered by the clear sight of the seer.
Send forth your gift of focus of intent
That we may rise on the planes guided by the higher self
Pure of heart bourne of the mother’s healing womb.
The gate of the west is open
Hail and welcome

North – Earth

Northern Gate- hold fast and firm
We call forth Water of Earth
The birthing waters that manifest strength and renewal
The Gate of the North is Open
We bid you Hail and Welcome

******************************************

Closing the Gates

Energies of Air
Circle of infinite knowledge
We thank you for revealing the Wisdom of the Higher Mind.
The Gate of the East is Closed
Hail and Farewell

Energies of Fire
Path of Will, Change and rebirth-
We thank you for your transformative healing
The Gate of the South is Closed
Hail and Farewell

Energies of Water
Shimmer of star-light and depth of intuition and healing,
We thank you for your restorative flow, healing embrace
And revealing of the mystery that is our Higher Self.
The Gate of the West is Closed
Hail and Farewell

Energies of Earth
Foundation of All
We thank you for rebirth made manifest and
New pathways opened for change, health and growth.
The Gate of the North is Closed
Hail and Farewell

** written by R. Fennelly

If you would like to learn more about the Elements and their sub-sets, please check out my book:
The Elemental Year: Aligning the Elemental Parts of SELF

Back to the Components of Ritual

Posted in YAD-Lesson Six, Year and A Day Course | 1 Comment

Sacred Space Within Ritual

Posted on October 7, 2014 by themagickalpen

One of the reasons for creating sacred space is with the intent of using that space as a working container for magick. And, the act of ritual is honoring and celebrating the threads of energy and magickal working that are interwoven in our lives and abundant within a dedicated sacred space. Establishing sacred space for a ritual is saying to those entities and energies seen and unseen that you are ready to do the work of the Divine. It is at once part and the whole of the process; just as a swimmer would not rise to victory without a source of water in which to swim, or a doctor would be hard pressed to do surgery in a setting that was less than sterile and conducive to concentration.

There are many types of rituals that can be crafted. The most commonly known are those that celebrate the cycles of the Great Wheel of the Year. These are largely celebratory in nature rather than focused on a specific working. Lunar rituals are often used in support of magickal workings, such as healing, prosperity and initiations to name a few.

The Cycles of the Wheel

Review again what these cycles mean and think about how you would chose to celebrate a particular Sabbat. Excerpted from:

Lesson Four: Cycles of the Wheel

There are several cycles that can be used to describe the energy of the movement of the Wheel and how it aligns with the natural world. All are occurring simultaneously, even though it may appear that in a particular ritual one or another may be more apparent. Below is a brief listing of a few of these cycles:

Goddess/God….. Light/Dark

Cycle of Goddess….. passes through triplicity
Cycle of God… birth, sacred union, maturity, death, rebirth
Cycle of the Growing Year
Cycle of the Hunting/Gathering Year

Cycle of the Seasonal Tides

Tide of Sowing
Spring Equinox through Summer Solstice

Tide of Harvest
Summer Solstice through Autumn Equinox

Tide of Reflection (Moving Within)
Autumn Equinox through Winter Solstice

Tide of Turning Overs (Beginning Anew and Quickening)
Winter Solstice through Spring Equinox

The Equinoxes and the Solstices
Equinoxes: A time of balance between light/dark

Vernal Equinox – Spring and the season of rebirth. All things are now in their phase of growth, having passed through the periods of quickening and ripening.

Autumnal Equinox – Autumn and the season of release and harvest. All things have now passed their peak and what has been gathered makes way for what will be planted later.

Solstices: Time of Transition

Winter Solstice/Yule
Marks the point of the longest night and the hope of the sun’s return as the days’ become longer from here forward until the

Summer Solstice/Litha
Marks the point of the longest day and the beginning of the winter and dark months ahead until the Winter Solstice begins the cycle once again

Initiation

The ritual of Initiation is one that marks the spiritual growth of the witch along his or her Path. It is a time of trial and test, courage and faith that propels us forward along the Path towards one of greater service and devotion. It can be likened to a spiritual rebirth and the you that emerges on the other side of that rebirth is transformed.

Healing

Rituals for healing are specifically designed to incorporate those components that will be lasting and durable in nature. New moon workings to begin a healing process and reinforcement and bolstering at the Full moon is one way to accomplish this. A word of note regarding the ethics and practical considerations of magickal working. As Wiccans we honor and respect all of life, inclusive of the decisions by free will that life may make. Doing a working of healing for someone without their express permission is unethical and a breach of their free will to make the decision yes or no that they wish outside assistance.

The same is true of sending energy to someone you perceive to be in need. Without their consent and knowledge you have intruded on their right to say no. And, lastly it cannot be stressed enough that doing a healing ritual for someone who clearly needs medical assistance and attention in lieu of them seeking that medical attention is irresponsible and foolhardy. Miraculous healings do and have happened on very rare occasions, but one should never allow ego to replace sound judgment in assuming that theirs is the magick that will cure.

So, what would you use a healing ritual for? We have used healing rituals in our coven to help remove negative energies that may have built within membership around a specific issue. I have used healing rituals for myself to help mend an old and non-constructive way of thinking or hanging onto old wounds that have kept me from further growth. With my mother’s permission, I have used healing ritual to help with recovery from her knee replacement surgery.

Tool Consecration

We took a look at a ritual last month to cleanse and prepare our magickal tools. This can also take the form of rededicating a tool that has not been used for a long period of time of cleansing one that has been used to remove large amounts of negativity and may have built up unhealthy residue.

A Simple Ritual For Consecration of the Tools

Life Passages

Rituals that celebrate the turning of the seasons within ourselves are some of the most joyous rituals. Wiccanings celebrate and bless a new child’s birth. Coming of Age rites for young men and women celebrate the fertility and potential for creation and embrace the movement towards adulthood. Handfastings celebrate the married union and pledges of love that a couple makes to one another in the presence of the Great Ones. Cronings (Women) and Sagings (Men) mark the time of wisdom from year’s of experience and often coincide for the woman with the holding of the blood within or menopause. And, finally as the turn nears the point of return, Rites of Crossing Over celebrate and honor the life that was lived in this incarnation, the return to the loving arms of the Goddess and the time of awaiting new birth.

NOTE: As we continue through the course I will be adding rituals that you can do yourself and add to the Book of Shadows we will create in Lesson 7.

Foundations of Practice
Contemplative Observation – #2: The Thinning of the Veils

Next Week
The Components of Ritual

Posted in YAD-Lesson Six, Year and A Day Course | Tagged Ritual, Wheel of the Year, YAD-Lesson Five, Year and A Day | Leave a comment

The Path

Posted on October 5, 2014 by themagickalpen

This lengthy poem was inspired after last weekend’s Climbing the Tree ritual. The Climbing the Tree weekend is hosted by the Tradition to which I belong, The Assembly of the Sacred Wheel. This is a large event requiring much planning, so it is only held every several years (the last being in 2009) and provides the experience of walking the lightning flash of the Qabalisic Tree of Life as an experiential grouping of 10 mini-rituals.

The Tree is laid out on the grounds of Seelie Court and participants move through the Tree, walking the paths and having a ritual experience in each of the spheres in accord with that sphere’s energy. I have had the honor of taking on the role of as one of the spheres for the past 3 runs, but never had the opportunity to actually walk the Tree in its entirety as a participant. This year, I had the good fortune to be able to experience the full Tree!

I wanted to share this writing as a source of inspiration for seeing the potential that is held in being a participant in your own spiritual journey. The lessons of the Qabalistic Tree are ones that are relatable to everyone’s mundane and spiritual experiences and the goal of study is one of self-knowledge and growth.

I invite you to walk with me on the Path of my experience of the Tree. The beauty is that you do not have to know anything about Qabalah to appreciate what this writing has to relate. You have but to set your foot upon the Path and be open to where that path may lead…….

I step upon the Path
And Earth’s energy
Stands as fertile ground.

Water flows from
Deeply hidden wells
Fire streams from
Sun’s quickened light
Air breathes life into
Earth that rises and shifts
Urging me onward.

The tool of my re-making
In heart –body –mind
And will is found.

I move along the path
Into the night sky temple
Of the moon where star
And dreamscape weave
A tapestry that tells of
Cycles of knowing and
Illusion’s sacrificial release.

The path is lit from celestial sky
And all clears with each step
Forward into clarity of mind
That holds creation’s intent
Breathed into life from
Library’s inspired great halls.

I move now with mind
Seeking the victory of
Beauty’s face and come
To pause in awe of Mother
Nature’s surrounding gifts.

Their power and wild beauty
Held within my own physical
Form now awakened and verdant
Mantle claimed as Gaia’s own.

I walk with tears of gnosis
Streaming from gates long
Needing the power of heart’s
Release and step out into the
Vast potential of the unknown.

Into Sun’s great downpour
Harmonious center of
Golden strands that demand
The sacrifice of full light’s scrutiny.

I scream into a breath that offers
Up true release and heat rising
From within empowers my intent
As I leave this place of synthesis
Ablaze with strength newly found.

The sun sets behind me as
Sharpened knife and the
Sword of truth challenge
And give fearsome dare.

Tears now flow freely
Reflected in shimmering
Blade of light and what I
Knew of myself is surrendered
To the pointed test of true worth.

From these fires of tempering
Comes new form that will wield
Its measure of might as warrior
As Goddess and as guardian
Of the sacred Great Work of self.

Courage has been tested
And mercy now awaits
What has been purposefully
Broken down to be birthed anew.

I walk to a place of mercy
I stand crowned as King of
My worldly and spiritual domains
The choice of ruler-ship and weight of
Responsibility now mine to claim.

Like pieces on a chess board
Each move affects the next
Each calculation of mind
Brings reality of heart’s consequence.

There is no winning play as the
Board continually changes and
The pieces transmute as the
Players evolve and grow.

Flexibility and mastery over
What holds me in chains as servant
Rather than ruler over how I would
Construct and command my
Worldly and spiritual domains.

The final realization is one hidden
In plain sight and boldly echoes
The truth of free will’s choice to move
Confidently in changing course and
Not lose sight of drawing to me
What is held dear in those conquests.

I breath deeply taking in all that has
Been learned as the next challenge
Awaits and the choice now at hand
To cross the abyss deep and wide.

I step moving cautiously along a
Path whose end cannot be seen
So great the veiling of light and dark
Faith and a silent promise my only guides
As I stand precariously balanced mid-point
Shedding the last of my mortal identity.

Mother’s voice calls to me gently
Into arms of dark black sea softly
Reminding of all that has been given
And what more remains in hopes
And wishes and dreams.

Time holds no false enchantment
As lifetimes flow as one and every
Pearl of dark sea’s creation has
Potential to be the great manifest one.

Dip deep into the waters
Drink freely from their source
Take one dream as heart’s most cherished
And bring it through the womb of manifest birth.

I breathe into the vision of potential’s hope
The path now one of nebula and galaxy
Of cosmos and starry birth

I move as witness to the birthing of the Universe
The light of my being scattered as seeds
Of star-filled light moving and flowing
The memory of this potent exchange
Holding the understanding of re-union
And dissolution of what is contained in
Body of light and flesh and bone.

From this eternal cycle of cosmos
An awakening of key held within
Human’s birthing light and deeper
Place of manifesting star’s gift of sight.

I breathe out the light of wisdom
And enter the brilliance of liminal space
That blinds me from the child of the
Limitless All that I am.

What lays hidden in my being
That cries out to be brought
Into the crown of immanence.

I stand in the silence
No words or thoughts
No emotions or action
Can articulate the gnosis
That fills by Spirit and Soul.

All and nothing awaits
The next step upon this
Never ending Path.

The journey begins anew
The possibilities change
And every step has been taken
In all of its many forms.

And as the return of worldly
Affairs and knowledge of my
Place within..

I remain steadfast in my devotion to the Great Work
As the Kingdom of my manifest being
Seeks the Foundation that has been created
By the Glory-filled Victory of my inner Beauty.

Beauty that has been forged by my will to action honed
By the courage of justifiable Might
And cooled in the expansive waters of Mercy.

I have seen the fear of my own reflection in the
Knowledge of all parts of myself claimed by the Great Abyss
And these fears have been soothed by the ebb and flow of
The Dark Mother’s Understanding and my Celestial Father’s
Cosmic Wisdom.

I have experienced this and more in my journey upon the Path
Where the Crown of my Divine Kingship shines in brilliance
For all to see.

Posted in Bonus Material | 7 Comments

Overview of the Lesson: 6- Creating Sacred Space

Posted on October 1, 2014 by themagickalpen

The Experience of Sacred Space makes possible the “founding of the world”:
where the sacred Manifests itself in space,the real unveils itself,
and the world comes into existence
… Mircea Eliade …

What is Sacred Space?

Read and re-read the quote above. Take it into your space of meditation. Analyze, dissect and observe it from all angles, perspectives and meaning. Try to feel the weight and breath of its meaning and allow the words to gently wash over you. Digest it and then simply sit with the feeling of satiety its inner essence provides. And, once you have done these things, redo them, one by one. Therein you will find the wholeness and gnosis of meaning that is contained within the sacred space you have so intensely and with such devotion created around those words.

Foundations of Practice:

Our focus in Foundations of Practice this month will center on creating your own quarter calls and connection to the natural positive flow of energy that prepares us for magickal work.

Reading and Resources:

Check out the Suggested Reading this month for additions that will give you ideas for altar spaces and he varied types and uses of sacred space beyond ritual work. For more in depth study of the techniques and mechanics of successful castings , please check out the book:

Castings: The Creation of Sacred Space by Ivo Dominguez, Jr., Elder of the Assembly of the Sacred Wheel Tradition

Resources will update with some resources for purchasing ritual robes and creating your own.

Let the space be readied
Let the mind be open.
By Blue Flame and
Power of Four
We call forth the
Divine Spark within.
May the Gates be open
And the Journey begin…

What is Sacred Space

Posted in Uncategorized | 2 Comments

What is Sacred Space?

Posted on October 1, 2014 by themagickalpen

According to Webster’s Dictionary, one of the meanings of the word sacred is:
Designated or exalted by a divine sanction; possessing the highest title to obedience, honor, reverence, or veneration; entitled to extreme reverence; venerable and something which is consecrated, devoted and dedicated to.

Sacred Space is all around us. Sacred Space is within us. It is as simple as a beautiful garden or the tiniest plot of earth upon which a single flower may bloom or as elaborate as a great hall, adorned and ready for a ritual of high celebration and magick. It is not the particulars of the space itself that make it one of sacred energy, but rather, the intent and use of that space that form the container into which the Divine may flow.

These definitions alone, provide clues as to the process and reason why the creation of Sacred Space is a cornerstone of magickal practice and the very act of that creation will go far to enhance your personal magickal practice and growth. And, if that space is a small altar or permanent feature of your home each time you pass this space you will be reminded of your intent and spiritual goals in walking this Path. This space should be created with the intent of building positive energy and forming a statement of your beliefs and practice. It is also a call to commitment towards whatever your particular path may be. In taking the time, energy and effort to assign a special space within your home to those concepts and philosophies you hold as your personal truths, you have taken concrete and manifest action towards that goal.

Once you have established your sacred space at home, ideally that particular space should not be used for other things. It should have its own boundaries, kept clean and dust-free with the items contained upon it handled only by you, or if shared with your house-mate, by whomever put the energy into creating this space. If this is not possible, carefully select items to share the space. For instance, if you use your mantle as a small altar, placing objects such as pictures of cherished family members is supportive of that energy. I would not leave trash or unwashed plates and cups next to your spiritually charged items of devotion.

Using the same space regularly for ritual and raising energy retains a portion of that energy raised and with each use that space becomes more empowered and responds more readily to what type of magickal work is done within it. This is the same principle that occurs and applies to the dynamics and energies that are felt at the numerous sacred sites throughout the world. If enough energetic and spiritual activity has occurred regularly and routinely on that site there is a permanent change that has taken place in the basic energetic patterns of the site.

If you do not have a space that is permanent (and I am sure most of us would fall into this category), particularly for ritual, wherever you choose to set up that space should be clean and tidy with careful attention to both casting the circle and removing the energy of the circle once the ritual is complete. We often use a coven member’s living or dining rooms for our rituals. Since these rooms are also used daily by the occupants, attention is given to removing any residual energy from the ritual and its casting, so the space may be returned to its mundane uses. I am also mindful that when I use my living room at home for personal ritual that the casting be strong enough that the energy does not “bleed” into the bedrooms located directly overhead.

Altars

An altar could be thought of as a small piece of sacred space. Setting up an altar space in your home can provide a point of focus and create the correct supportive ambience for establishing a personal practice of devotion. Items that are lovingly and with intent placed upon this dedicated sacred space serve to connect you more deeply to the energy that you are communing with. An altar can be as simple as a small shelf on a bookcase, a small end table, the top of a bureau or a small corner shelf affixed to the wall.

The contents can be dedicated to a specific deity, element, ancestor or just things of beauty that you find that stimulate a sense of well-being and calmness. One of the classes I taught had a session about portable altar spaces. A shoebox altar can conveniently hold, small tools, an altar cloth, small statue, candle, incense and more. Additionally, with the lid closed, it becomes the altar table as well! I will have plenty of pictures and suggestions when we come to the lesson later this month dedicated to Altars.

Ritual

When we set up sacred space to do ritual there is generally a main altar that is placed in the center of the space. This altar serves as the central core that contains the physical representations of the elements, Deities with whom you work and any seasonal decorations that you wish to include. It then becomes the microcosm within the greater macrocosm of universal and cosmic energy and flow. Additionally, each of the quarter spaces have decorated altars specific to that Cardinal direction’s element. We’ll learn more about that later.

Meditation

Setting up an altar as your center of focus for meditation can be a wonderful way to more deeply connect to the quiet space within. We are visual beings and beginning a meditation by looking at a beautiful crystal, the smoke from the incense and the patterns it creates as it wafts upwards or simply staring into the central core of the flame of a candle can relax and quiet your physical being and your mind. Adding a beautiful cloth to sit upon or drape over the surface of the table you have placed your focus items on sets the stage for an enhanced experience.

Journaling

Setting up a sacred space that is dedicated with the intent of use for journaling and writing may seem like an additional and unnecessary step, but the very act of taking the time to do this honors your creative process and the fruits of those endeavors.

These are some of the ways in which Sacred Space is used. As we move through this month’s lessons, you’ll see that each of these venues offers its own quality of magick, whether sacred space has been declared or not. The very act of intent transparently connects you to the ephemeral world, thus creating its own layer of sacred space to work within.

Foundations of Practice:
Contemplative Observation

Next Week
Sacred Space Within Ritual

Posted in YAD-Lesson Six, Year and A Day Course | Tagged Altars, Foundations of Practice, Journaling, Ritual, Sacred Space, Year and A Day | 1 Comment

Foundations of Practice: Lesson Six

Posted on October 1, 2014 by themagickalpen

Contemplative Observation – #1
Changing The Energy of a Space

This exercise is meant to allow you to experience the subtle changes that occur when you set up a space of working that has the intention of being sacred space. You will need:

• A candle and holder
• A cloth to lay on a flat surface or cover the top of a small table
• A working surface (small table or other)
• Stick incense of your choice and holder

Day 1: Find a space that is quiet, where you will not be disturbed. Sitting comfortably, take a few deep and relaxing breaths. Enter into a space of meditation with the focus of renewal and creating a space of mental clarity.

Simply sit with this intention for as long as you wish and then breathe back into the space of your physicality; opening your eyes and thus ending this session.

Journal any experiences that you had or information or guidance that was received.

Day 2: Using the same space as the previous day, begin by laying the cloth that you had selected on a surface that will hold the incense/holder and candle/holder where you can comfortably see them.

Place the candle in its holder in the center of the cloth-covered surface and place the incense in front or along side of the candle. Breathe deeply and as you light the candle offer up aloud words that speak of the intent that this act is the lighting of the sacred Fire of Will ignited by the Air of Intent. Breathe deeply and light the stick of incense from the flame of the candle offering up aloud words that speak of the intent of the purification and preparation of this space of contemplation with Fire and Air.

Sit comfortably and looking at the candle and smoking incense, offer up aloud words of intent that your working area is now sacred space, guarded and guided by the power of the Divine. Enter into a space of meditation with the focus of renewal and creating a space of mental clarity.

Simply sit with this intention for as long as you wish and then breathe back into the space of your physicality; opening your eyes and focusing one again on the candle and incense. Gently pinch the candle’s flame to extinguish it as you offer up aloud words that speak the intent of gratitude for the creation of a space of the Divine to work within. You may leave the incense burning if it has not burnt down and offer up aloud words of gratitude for its gift of purification as the breath of the Divine.

Breathe deeply and end your meditative session offering up words aloud with the intent of gratitude for the sanctity of this space for your working and its return to normal use now enhanced by positive intent and energy to be used for the good o all who pass through it.

Be sure to journal your experience and make note of any changes you felt in the space that differed from your previous day’s work. Make note of what energies flowed through you as you established this as sacred space, and how these differed with the previous day’s. Be sure to also journal the words of offering.

Note: Even if you are familiar with and routinely establish Sacred Space as part of your work, do this exercise in the way I have outlined. We often take for granted what we habitually do, and forget the power in taking our time to compare and contrast what this same action would feel like in its most simplistic form. Working in this way, we can often re-experience those cherished ah ha moments once again and deepen our work to bring more of that fresh perspective back into the humdrum of what we do on auto-pilot.

Repeat this exercise as often as you wish and feel free to add-on as we progress on the Sacred Path.

Contemplative Observation – #2
The Thinning of the Veils

This exercise is meant to make you more cognizant of the changes in energy around you at a broader level. What I wrote below is excerpted from a post last year. It speaks to the atmospheric “pressure” that often accompanies this time of the year….

“Today is November 1st- All Soul’s Day. The veils between the worlds of the living and the dead are thinning and we have greater access to our ancestors and loved ones who have passed. This month has been extraordinarily dense for me this year. Not only in the amount of work expected, but in the general feeling of the pervasiveness of the atmosphere and energy surrounding. Now this would not normally be unusual given the season of the year and the opening of the veils, but, this year seems different. The thinning seemed to begin much earlier and the heaviness of death and whispers of those wishing to be heard by the living once again seems to be deafening at times.”

In the business of our lives we do not always take notice of how the space around us changes as we approach those sacred times of the year. Even the perception of sacred lands is more overt, primarily because of the existing designation which opens us to the possibility. The fact of the matter is that the air is different at certain times; the inroads of something sacred occurring have been laid and if we stop and open to perceiving those differences they can be felt.

I am purposefully making use of the timing of this post and the thinning of the veils between the worlds (Northern Hemisphere-Samhain and Southern Hemisphere-Beltane). But, depending on when you get to this lesson, you can also sense a difference at any point just prior to a Sabbat on the Great Wheel. Other points include lunations, as I am sure we will all agree things get a bit crazier near a Full Moon!

All you need to do for this exercise is to take a few moments (particularly at dawn and dusk) to be outside. Take a few deep breaths with the intent of sampling the energy that surrounds you. Make note of what you experience. For me, this time of the year feels more crowded- like, I am in the midst of a crowd, although there may be very people around. Do this for the remainder of days leading up to the date of Samhain (Beltane). Be sure to make note of any changes.

I know I keep stressing that Sacred Space surrounds us without need for any special conjuring on our part; this is a way to experience and come to understand that philosophy on your own.

Read the full article at: The Magickal Pen-The Veils of Samhain

Journaling
Writing Your Own Quarter Calls

In your journal set aside several pages entitled “ My Quarter Calls”. Sitting quietly where you won’t be disturbed write the word “AIR” at the top of the page. Envision what words you would use as you stand in front of the quarter space aligned with Air. Write as though you are truly speaking to and requesting the presence of this energy. What are the element’s attributes and which of those might you wish to either use within a ritual or enliven within your self?

Write the word “Fire” at the top of the next page. Using the same process as you did for Air begin your work in writing the calls to Fire. Do this for Water and Earth, each in turn. Be creative and remember that the expression of your call should come from the heart; not what you have been told it should be from any outside source. These are the beginnings of not only creating your own quarter calls, but also a deepening of your understanding of what place each of the alchemical elements has within sacred space.

Posted in YAD-Lesson Six, Year and A Day Course | Tagged Contemplation, Foundations of Practice, Observation, YAD- Lesson Six, Year and A Day | 3 Comments

A Pathworking of the Tools- Foundations Lesson 5

Posted on September 30, 2014 by themagickalpen

Sitting in a space where you will not be disturbed, take a moment to make conscious note of your surroundings and the physicality of your being in this space. Gently close your eyes and turn your awareness to the pattern of your breath. Allow your breathing to lengthen and relax into a calm and steady rhythm.

Shift your attention to the space between your brows and the inner screen of your meditative conscious mind. Sit as observer of this screen, taking note of the form of this inner landscape. Now see yourself standing and walking towards this inner screen. A pin- point of cobalt blue light forms just ahead of you and begins expanding in diameter as you walk towards it. When you arrive at the place of being immediately in front of this vibrant blue veil, it has expanded, stretched and opened to become an arched gateway. The faint glimmer of sparkling blue shines within its opening and you feel called to step into this place.

You step through the veiling and find yourself standing centrally in a circular room. The walls surrounding you are a vibrant cobalt blue colored marble. You look upwards and the ceiling appears to be dome-like, gently rising up and beyond your line of sight. You look down at the floor and the same sensation of it being dome-like in structure, but you quickly dismiss this thought as you are standing on what appears to be level and solid marble, the same color as the walls and ceiling.

You close your eyes and breathe in deeply adjusting easily to what surrounds you and finding your anchoring within this space. You take another very deep breath and open your eyes on the exhale, surprised to see that there are now 4 equilaterally spaced areas along the perimeter of the circular floor decorated in accord with each of the four alchemical elements of Air – Fire – Water and Earth.

You take a step towards what appears to be the cardinal direction of East. As you approach and move closer, you can feel a gentle yet strong breeze blowing from this direction. As the air moves over you and you approach closer still, your mind clears and thoughts seem to flow smoothly and easily through your mind. You find yourself standing in front of what appears to an opening in the wall and as you look out there is nothing but beautiful blue sky stretching as far as you can see and beyond. You breathe deeply in response to the beauty of this sight and as you exhale slowly you see an indistinct shape approaching from the depths of this sky scape. As you continue watching, the shape moves closer and you can now see that it is a sword; moving on the current, and coming directly towards you.

You breathe in deeply and in response the sword seems to move in rhythm with your inhalation of breath and you find that you are able to draw it towards you; bringing it to rest gently in your hand, point of blade reaching upwards. You feel the weight of this sword and it seems to fit easily and comfortably in your hand as though it had been specifically crafted just for you. You stand quietly in the strength of this space of the East and still your mind as you take in the beauty and detail of the sword more closely. Make note of any symbols you see on its blade or hilt. Move it around and see if you can sense the energy emitting from it as it weaves its carving through air and vibration. Make note of how its energy makes you feel and/or what thoughts present themselves.

You have received all that is needed at this time and the sword gently releases from your hand and comes to rest hovering mid-air. You breathe deeply and take a step towards the right moving towards the next elemental space.

As soon as you turn and begin to walk towards the cardinal direction of the South you can feel the heat of a blazing fire pulling you closer. You feel an awakening heat moving outward from your central core and know this to be the resonance of your inner flame with that of the hearth fire. You continue walking and come to stand in front of a stone-enclosed circular hearth with flames dancing brightly in its center. You move a bit closer and as you gaze into the flames, you see the tip of a beautifully colored wooden staff emerge from the heart of the flames. You are not surprised that the wood is not burning as nothing is as it seems in this realm. As the length of a beautiful rowan staff fully emerges, you instinctively reach out and the staff immediately responds coming to rest in your hand. The energy of this tool is vastly different from that of the sword. There was an immediate sharpness and clarity about that tool of the East. Immediately, you can feel a gentle heat moving through its core and feel the energy and vibrancy of the length of wood holding a blazing flame of intensity within its construct.

Take some time to more closely explore the energy and visage of this staff. Is it simple in its presentation or ornately carved? Are there any gemstones or crystals embedded? How does its energy make you feel? Make note of all that you observe. You breathe in deeply and fully and feel the inner fires rising within you calling you to action, catalyzing your will. You feel stirred and excited to explore the other two spaces.; but you exercise restraint and give more time and attention to this tool of Fire.

You have received all that is needed at this time and with these thoughts the staff releases itself from your grasp and pulls back towards the hearth, coming to rest mid-air directly over the rising flames.

You turn towards the right and once again begin your journey towards the cardinal direction of the West. You can smell salty air and hear in the distance the call of gulls and sea terns. You come to stand in the front of a large and expansive view of the sea. Frothy waves move in towards you and you can feel the pull of ground receding as the waters return back into an endless vision of horizon. As the next wave approaches you feel a welling up inside of emotion and a chalice filled with waters spilling freely rises to the surface and you reach down to take it in hand. You hold it close to your heart and for a moment noting the exquisite beauty of what you are holding. There are no words or thoughts that could adequately give homage to this vessel of creation and the sea from whence it came shimmers like diamonds as sunlight pours its rays onto flowing surface,

Finding your place of composure, you turn the chalice in your hand, observing it from all sides and perspective. Make note of what material (s) it is crafted from. Make note of any symbols that are etched into it. How does its energy make you feel? Do you feel the movement of the waters within you and the promise of journey back to the source that lay in wait at life’s end? Breathe fully and deeply into all that you are experiencing.

You feel the call of the next element echoing through these waters and the chalice moves away from you, hovering just above the water’s flow as though gently moving you on. You have received all that is needed at this time and turn to the right and walk towards the North.

As you walk towards the cardinal direction of the North, you feel the weight of your physical presence as you proceed forward step by step. You feel the strength of your own physical form and awareness of the hard and supportive floor beneath that seems to propel you forward. You come to rest in front of an opening that stretches looking out at a golden field of flowers. The fragrance is full and heady and you can hear the buzzing of bees and the song of birds perched on branches of nearby trees. The cooling shade of opening into a wooded forest stands off to one side and the smell of rich fertile soil is intoxicating, You see that a space has been cleared near the forest’s edge and a fresh mound of dark dirt covers a small circular space. Rising from this mound of earth a wooden pentagram pushes through to the surface, coming to rest lightly in the soil. You sit down the cushioned surface of dirt gently supporting and run your fingers over the surface of the pentagram. You breathe in the deeper smell of earth and life and feel the moisture held within it as your clothing dampens from the pressure of your body on its surface. You breathe deeply and exhale the intent of looking more closely at what this pentagram has been crafted from. Has the star been etched or burned, scribed or painted on its surface. How does this tool that encompasses the foundation of all of the elements feel to the touch? What emotions and thoughts does it provoke? Spend some time sitting with this tool and taking in the sights of earth unfolding before you.

You breathe deeply and as you exhale the pentagram lifts softly from the earth carried on your breath and hovers mid air. You have received all that is needed at this time and you feel the need to complete the scribing of this circle of the elements and their tools. You stand up, brushing dirt from your clothes and walk the edge of the circle completing it back to the East.

You stand for a moment and look around at each of the tools, some shining, some of wood, others of crystal or glass perhaps. All are poised in the liminal space of air and energy, delicately hovering within the realms of their making. Take a moment of pause and think on which of these tools resonated the strongest within your being. Which called you from your place of inertness and pulled you towards it?

Walk now to that tool. Stand in front of it and closing your eyes offer the intent to receive a personal message from that tool’s energy. Continue to breathe deeply and fully as the tool speaks to you and gifts you with its wisdom.

When you feel complete and the message of the tool has been given, offer up thanks to it for its guidance and wisdom. You bow slightly as a sign of honor and respect and turn to walk back to the center of the room once again.

When you arrive in the center space, offer the intent of your own being as the tool of Spirit and make oath to use all of these tools wisely and with great care. As the last of these words moves across your lips, the tools and the realms from whence they came, gently fade returning the space to a circular wall of blue energy. The room fades becoming a mist of blue energy and you breathe deeply, stepping through the archway of its veiling and find yourself once again as observer of your inner screen of visioning. The room has faded, but the memory of the experience and the gift of the tool of resonance still reverberate through you.

Offer up thanks for the wisdom of this journey and breathe into the intent of moving back into your physical state and physical room of beginning. Each breath draws you back into your body and the gentle rise and fall of your chest. And, when you are ready, gently flutter your eyes open and be present in the here and now. Blessed Be!

Foundations of Practice: Lesson 5

Posted in YAD-Lesson Five, Year and A Day Course | Tagged Air, Ancient Earth, Breath, Fire, Foundations of Practice, Natural World, Observation, Pathworking, The Elements, The Five Elements, Water, YAD-Lesson Five, Year and A Day | 2 Comments

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Oak and Willow Coven, ASW: Beltane 2014

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Oak and Willow Coven: Beltane 2014

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From: The Physics Factbook™.Edited by Glenn Elert

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** written by R. Fennelly

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