(For multi-religious groups)

The following is a Handfasting (Wedding) Ritual that can be used for crowds that are non-denominational or have Christians among the wedding party or audience. I performed it in June in San Diego for about 100 people. I left a few things blank, which you can fill in or change to your liking. If you have questions, just email me or write me at:

The presider and her/his assistant shall enter the area from the “Northern End” (the side away from the audience) and shall walk clockwise around the circle to be created. They will stop so that their backs are to the audience. The presider will then light the male and female candles that are represented in the form of a black and white candle on either side of the altar, which is in the center of circle. The presider will then turn and face the audience and say (something like…):

In times long ago, a man and a woman came together in the presence of a representative of the Holy One to enter into a contract of marriage known as a handfasting. It is known as a handfasting because the couple joins hands to represent that they must remember to hold fast through all of Life’s challenges. The couple and their witnesses have decided to participate of a ceremony of their own free will and as an external display of their spiritual commitment to this Union.

Some of you may find this “medieval” style of ceremony to be a great leap from the present, however after much thought, (insert first names) have decided to follow their hearts and show the physical world their spiritual commitment in this manner. During the course of this ceremony, many symbols are used which shall be described both to the couple and to you as the worldly witnesses. Should you have any questions at the end of the ceremony, please feel free to ask.

II. The presider will then turn away from the audience and pick up the basket of petals and hold them over her head toward the “North” and say:

Oh, Powers of Nature, which permeates all, come here this day and Bless these petals of the (couple choose a flower) flower which shall trace the Circle to represent the boundary between the physical and the spiritual worlds. May all who enter this Circle come here mindful of their commitment to the Union of (insert couple’s names).

The presider will then give the basket to the assistant who starting from the north and moving in a clockwise direction sprinkle the petals to form a Circle. The basket will then be replaced on the altar after the presider sprinkles a few petals in a circle over the altar.

III. The presider will then lift the Water Chalice above the head to the North and says:Contained within this Vessel is the Water that flows and ebbs through our Lives. The circle shall be traced with this water to remind those who enter that Life is a never-ending series of challenges and triumphs. May the powers of the Water be present with us on this day so that the couple shall start their life together mindful that they must flow with the Tide of Life through their challenges and triumphs.

The presider will then replace the chalice on to the altar after pouring some of the water into the chalice that the couple has selected and some into the water bowl.

IV. The presider will then lift the crystal plate of Salt (preferably Sea Salt) above the head to the North and say:

The Salt which preserves and binds the Water of Life shall be added so that all who enter this Circle shall be reminded of the Earthly commitment that is being made on this day by (insert names).

The presider will then put a pinch of salt into the Couple’s chalice and the water bowl.

The Blessed Water is the symbol of the spiritual and emotional commitment, which they make on this day. This Salt is the symbol of the physical and material union that (insert name) will make. By joining the two, as we join (insert names) today, two separate entities become one. In tracing the Circle with the joined water and salt, (insert name) are provided with the image of their new relationship beginning on firm ground.

The presider will then pass it to the assistant whom starting from the north and moving in a clockwise direction will sprinkle the Blessed Water. He will then replace the Chalice to the altar.

V. The assistant will the light the Sage. The presider will then lift the Sage above her/his head and say:

All that is unseen to mortal man join us on this day to bless this union. With this Sacred Sage, we now trace this Circle to remind all who enter that this is a Holy endeavor.

The presider will then blow out the burning Sage and trace a circle above the head and hand it to her assistant who starting from the north and moving in clockwise direction will trace the Circle in Sage. The assistant should make large sweeping circles while moving in a circle. The assistant will then take whatever if any is left and place it in the designated spot in the East.

VI. The presider will then take the Staff from her assistant and tap it once on the ground in the North and call the bridesmaids. Then will say:

On this day, you who represent the Bride’s life up to this point, have come here of your own free will to witness this Union. I call to the portal: (insert names of the bridesmaids but not the maid of honour).

The presider will then briefly greet each of them. The assistant will escort the bridesmaids around the circle to their designated places on the circle edge to the Northwest.

You four (or however many) come on this day to witness this Union and to remind the Bride of her chosen commitment to (insert name). Do you understand your role on this day?

The bridesmaids will signify their response. The presider will then strike the staff again and says:

I call forth (insert name of Maid of Honour) to this Circle on this day.

The presider will then greet the Maid of Honour and lead her to the white candle on the altar facing out toward the audience.

Throughout the course of their marriage, you have accepted the role of the woman who is to remind (insert name) of her promises on this day, do you accept this responsibility?

The maid of honour will then signify her response. The presider will then strike the staff again and say:

I call to the portal: (insert names of the groom’s men). These four gentlemen are representative of the life which (insert name) held before this union.

The presider will then briefly greet each of the men while the assistant takes them to their position on the edge of the circle in the northeast section.

You have come on this day of your own free will to bear witness to the Union of (insert name) to (insert name). Do you accept all the responsibility that comes with this?

The men will signify their response. The presider will then strike the staff and say:

I call forth (insert Best Man’s name) to the Circle on this day.

The presider then greets the Best Man and leads him to the black candle and says:

You have come here to bear witness to (insert name) commitment to (insert name). During their lifetime together, you are present to remind him of all that he chooses to commit to on this day. Do you accept this responsibility and all that comes with it?

The best man then signifies his response.

VII. The presider will then strike the staff and say:

I call to the Portal the woman who has chosen to commit herself freely and thoughtfully to this Union.

The Bride will then appear at the designated spot. The presider will then lead the bride to the Bridesmaid spot and the two will then greet with a kiss and the assistant will lead the Bridesmaid to the other women. The presider will then take the brides hand and says:

Who comes here on this day?

To which the bride will state her full legal name. The presider will then say:

You, (insert name), come here on this day of your own free will before these friends and family to show your spiritual and physical commitment to the man you have chosen to be your lifemate. Is this true?

To which the bride will signify her response.

VIII. The presider will then strike the staff again and say:

What man comes here on this day to join with this woman?

The groom will then appear at the designated spot. The presider will then greet the groom and lead him over to the best man who will greet the groom. The assistant will then take the best man over to the other groomsmen. The presider will take the groom’s hand and say:

Who comes here on this day?

To which the groom will respond with his full legal name. The presider will then say:

You, (insert name), come here today of your own free will before these friends and family to show your physical and spiritual commitment to this woman, (insert name). Is this true?

To which the groom will signify his response. The presider then will take the bride and groom’s hands and join them.

These two have come here to join together in marriage, is there anyone among those present who sees any reason why these two should not be married on this day?

The presider will wait for a response. Then will ask the groom and bride to place their wedding rings or whatever is the symbol of their union into the wedding chalice. The presider will then say:

As a symbol of their Union, (insert name) have chosen the traditional circular representation of a continuous love and life, the ring. They are now placing their rings into the wedding chalice which represents their commitment. The vessel contains Blessed Water which will cleanse the rings so that when (insert name) place them on each other’s fingers they will be symbolically starting anew.

IX. The presider will then ask the bride to light her tape from the white candle on the altar and then light the wedding candle. The presider will say:

The candle which (insert name) is lighting is the Wedding candle. She brings to this union all that is feminine, all that is (insert name). By lighting the wedding candle first does not mean that her energy is more important, but rather that contained within her is the essence and origin of all that is Life.

The presider will then ask the groom to light his taper with the black candle on the altar and then light the wedding candle. The presider will say:

(Insert name) brings to this union the spark, which is masculine; all that is (insert name). By joining his energies using the symbolic candle, (insert name) infuses his life essence and that which is the catalyst to a new Life. The wedding candle is now a symbol for the course of their marriage of the commitment that they make to each other. In the old days this candle would be kept on the dining table or anywhere prominent in the home, so that the couple would have a tangible way to rekindle their love when rocky times would occur. I hope that (insert names) will light this candle also during the good times as well as the bad.

X. The presider will then lift the candle off the alter and ask the couple to hold the candle together while facing the audience. The presider will then say:

(Insert names) must learn to work together if they have not already. By asking these two to bear the burden of their love in the form of this candle, they begin to understand the weight of the commitment they make on this day.

The assistant will then picks up the red cord (about 1 yard long) and hold it up so that the audience may see it. The presider will then say while taking the cord from the assistant:

A tradition, which no longer takes place, is the symbolic tying of the two participant’s wrists together by a red cord or scarf. (Insert names) have elected to uphold this tradition. As I bind these two together, let no man or woman break them apart.

The presider will then tie the two together at the wrists while they continue to hold the candle. (Since most people won’t understand that the couple could only be untied after they had sex which they would do before the end of the ritual by going off somewhere and then coming back. This part has been modified for the benefit of Christian and multidemoninational settings).

(Insert name) may not untie this until the traditional end of ceremony kiss to represent this physical commitment to this union. The red cord also symbolizes that these two people must work together as one unit. Sometimes this is easier said than done.

The presider will then lead the couple around the circle once in a clockwise manner, stopping at the north once, then stopping finally in the east.

XI. The presider will then say as the assistant lights a stick of incense and a candle in the east:

Since this is a spiritual commitment, I ask all that is of the spiritual realm, the ancestors of (insert names), as well as the air which they breathe into their lungs to Bless this union. (Insert names), remember that this union is all that you breathe and all that you breathe into it. Remember that you take from this union, but that you must also give back to this union. May you be blessed on this day by all that is unseen.

The presider will then lead the couple to south after the candle and incense has been lit. The assistant will then light a red candle and stick or incense while the presider says:

The physical representation of this commitment is your passion, love and deep sincerity. (Insert names), may you take from the fire of the earth around you the energy of strength when you feel that your commitment wanes. But also remember that the fire of passion must be balanced. Do not get carried away with your love. However nice it may seem, remember that every fire needs to be stoked and needs to be watched so that it does not consume all that is around it. May you be blessed on this day by the energies of fire.

The presider will then lead the couple to the west. The assistant will light a stick of incense and a blue candle as the presider says:

Water is the essence of all Life. But it teaches us that what gives life can drown as well. (Insert names), like with the Fire of Passion, be balanced when dealing with your emotions of love. Remember that your love is not a constant thing, but that it will ebb and flow and that it will grow and change, as it is living within you. May you be blessed on this day by the balancing and soothing essence of water.

The presider will then lead the couple to the North. The assistant will light a stick of incense and a green candle as the presider says:

The three aspects of your love presented thus far are nothing without the Earth

you can stand on. (Insert names) you are comprised of all the elements and like these elements, need the firmness and stability of the Earth to hold you together.

Remember that your spirit is contained within an Earthly vessel. Sometimes you may become too set in your ways, too stubborn or too proud, (insert names) remember that the Earth also changes like the other elements. What was once stable can be shaken and destroyed by one earthquake. So, keeping that in mind, communicate with one and other throughout your lives together. Do not keep secrets from one another and be honest with one another. Through honesty change and hope can occur.

XII. The presider will then take candle from the couple replacing it on the altar. The assistant will lead the couple to the front of the altar where they will kneel without the assistance with their backs to the audience. At this point, the presider will take the wedding chalice containing the rings and allow the couple to take the rings from the chalice. The presider will then say:

Are you ready to make this commitment?

The couple will signify their response.

Do you, (insert bride) take (insert groom) to be your lawfully wedded lifemate?

Bride will nod.

Since you have chosen to commit to (groom’s name), I ask you now to tell all who are present and (groom’s name) of your love.

The bride will then tell all present of her personal vow to the groom. The presider will then say when she is finished:

Now that you have vowed you love, (bride’s name), place the symbol of your love upon (groom’s name) finger.

Bride will place the ring on the groom’s finger. The presider than says:

Do you (groom), take (bride) to be your lawfully wedded lifemate?

Groom nods.

Since you have chosen to commit to (bride) I ask you now to tell all who are present and (bride) of your love.

The groom then tells all present of his vow to the bride. The presider then says:

Now that you have vowed your love, (groom), place the symbol of your love upon (bride) finger.

The groom places the ring on the bride’s finger. The presider then helps the couple to their feet, while the assistant motions to the attendants to take their second position. The assistant escorts the attendants to their places with their backs to the audience. The presider then lifts the bread basket (the couple can choose cake but they must make it) and the altar goblet (filled with the drink of choice of the couple) above the head and says:

With this Bread and Wine this couple partakes of their first meal together. Symbolically, this represents the fact that their love leads them never to thirst nor hunger for anyone else. Since there are so many who have come to witness this marriage, (insert names) have elected to have you partake of this part of this ceremony at the reception.

The presider will then have the couple feed each other. The assistant will then give a piece of bread to each attendant beginning with the women followed by the presider who will give them a sip of wine. When the last has had a sip, the presider and assistant will finish the bread and wine. The assistant will then lead the attendants behind the altar facing the audience, and the presider will then lead the couple to the west where they will face sideways in preparation for jumping over the broom.

In ancient times, the care and protection of the house was shared by both. A long gone symbolic tradition of jumping over the hurdles of home and hearth is the hopping over the broomstick. (Insert names), jump into the unknown future together as a couple who agree to share the responsibility of the home whether it be monetary or pragmatic, like doing the dishes. This broom shall not just hang in their home but should be used symbolizing the work involved in this or any union. I now invite the couple to jump over the broomstick.

The presider then grabs the maid of honor’s and the best man’s hands. She then says to them:

I turn to (maid of honor name) and the (best man). I thank you for coming on this day. Remember your commitment to (insert names) as their pragmatic internal voices.

Then the presider turns to the other attendants and says:

I thank the other attendants as well. You ten are now released from this circle. I ask you now to walk down the aisles to announce the couple’s good fortune.

The attendants then walk down the aisle or out of the circle among the audience. The presider than grabs the red cord and says:

By the power invested in my by the State of (whatever) and the powers that be, I now pronounce (insert names) a married couple. (Insert names), you may now kiss.

They kiss and as the presider removes the red cord.

I thank you for coming, and now I present to you, (insert names).

The couple may now leave and the assistant and presider dispels the circle. This ends the ritual.

Originally posted 2009-11-14 14:39:31.

Copyright 1993, John Shepard, Performed at Dragonfest, August 1993

[Materials required: On the altar there are brown candles, a Tootsie Roll (the great big one---as the athame), a large glass with milk in it (the chalice), a small dish of Nestle's Quick and a spoon, a small dish of chocolate sprinkles, a plate of cupcakes and some Yoo-Hoo along with a goblet. Participants approaching are given 1-2 shiny pennies with instructions that they must hold on to them until the appropriate time in the ritual. When feasting begins, they must surrender a penny for cakes and one for wine or one penny for both, if only one penny is handed out.]

(Attunement chant is similar to the “Ohm” chant but is focused to the ritual, “Yum-m-m”)

CLEANSE THE SACRED SPACE:

Chocolate sprinkles where thou art cast
No calories in thy presence last.
Let no fat adhere to me,
And as I will So Mote It BE!

Nestle’s Quick where thou art cast
Turn this milk to chocolate, fast.
Let all good things come to me,
And make my milk all chocolatey!

CAST THE CIRCLE (using a tootsie roll):

CALL THE QUARTERS:

MAIN RITUAL:

HANDMAIDEN (Henceforth known as the Swiss Miss): Listen to the words of the Mother of Chocolate, who was of old called Godiva, Ethel M, Sara Lee, Nestle, Mrs. See, and by many other names.

HPS: Whenever you have one of those cravings, once in a while and better it be when your checkbook is full, then shall you assemble in a great public place and bring offerings of money to the spirit of Me, who is Queen of all Goodies.

In the Mall shall you assemble you who have eaten all your chocolate and are hungry for more. To you I shall bring Good Things for your tongue.

And you shall be free from depression, and as a sign that you are truly free, you shall have chocolate smears on your cheeks, and you shall munch, nosh, snack, feast, and make yummy noises, all in my presence. For mine is the ecstasy of phenylalanine (FEEN-EL-AL-A-NEEN), and mine also is Joy on Earth, yea, even into High Orbit, for my law is “Melts in your mouth, not in your hand.”

(Note from Daven: It should be noted that the ecstatic ingredient in Chocolate is not phenylalanine, but THEOBROMIDE or PHENYLETHYLAMINE.  For more information, please see http://www.chocolate.org)

Keep clean your fingers, carry Wet Ones always, let none stop you or turn you aside. For mine is the secret that opens your mouth, and mine is the taste that puts a smile on your lips and comfy, padding pounds on your hips.

I am the Gracious Goddess who gives the gift of joy unto the tummies of men and women. Upon earth, I give knowledge of all things delicious, and beyond death…well, I can’t do much there. Sorry about that.

I demand only your money in sacrifice; for behold, chocolate is a business, and you have to pay for those truffles before you eat them.

SWISS MISS: Hear now the words of the Goodie Goddess, she in the dust of whose feet are the cheap imitations, whose body graces candy racks and finer stores everywhere.

GOODIE: I, who am the beauty of chocolate chips, and the satisfying softness of big bars, the mystery of how they get the filling inside of truffles, and fill the hearts of all but Philistines with desire, call unto thy soul to arise and come unto me. For I am the soul of candy; from me do all confections spring, and unto me all of you shall return, again…..and again……….and again………………and again.

Before my smeared face, beloved of Women and Men, thine innermost divine self shall be enfolded in the rapture of overdose. Let my taste be within the mouth that rejoices. For behold, all acts of yumminess and pleasure are my rituals. Therefore, let there be gooeyness and mess, crispness and crackling, big slabs and bite size pieces, peanut butter and chocolate covered cherries all within you.

And you who think to seek me, know that your seeking and yearning shall avail you not unless you know the Mystery; “We will sell no chocolate until you pay for it.” For behold; I have been with you since you were just a baby, and I am that which is attained at nearly any shop in the land.

Messed Be!

SWISS MISS: Hear now the words of the Chocolate God, who was of old called Ghirardelli, Milton Snavely Hershey, Bosco, Fudgesicle, and by many other names.

HP: I am the strength of the candy rack, and the piece that fell on the floor, but looks like it might not have gotten too dirty, and the deepest bitterness of dark chocolate. No matter how you try to resist the call of chocolate, I will hunt you out and I will become your sacred prey. I am the warmth of hot cocoa in the dead of winter, and the call of the road that leads you to that really expensive Godiva store downtown.

I give you, my creatures, the fire of love of chocolate, the power of jaw strength to bite off a piece of that frozen Milky Way bar, and the shelter of Haagen Daaz when that big date didn’t work out. You are dear to me, and I instill in you my power; the power of a piece of chocolate that you had forgotten you had hidden, and the power of vision and magickal sight with which you can spot a candy counter a mile away.

By the powers of the half melted bar in the glorious sun, I charge you; by the darkest depths of the bottom of the cocoa pot and the lingering smell of bittersweet chocolate, I charge you; and by the beauty of a perfectly swirled vanilla butter cream, I charge you:

Follow your heart and your instinct, wherever they lead you. The wealth in your pocket can buy you treats that a Mayan king would envy. Take joy in that first bite of lecithin emulsified cocoa, and in the last satisfying slurp of Yoo-Hoo. Yet you must be wary of deceit. Eat not of that which is called “Baking Chocolate,” for it is vile and bitter.

Lastly, always remember to leave some chocolate behind you. Be not greedy, but let yourself be known as a connoisseur. Leave a little for someone else.

I am with you always, just over your shoulder, or around the next corner. I am the Lord of Chocolate, and when you have reached the end of your hoard, I will never be farther away from you than that 7-Eleven on the corner. I am the spirit of the Wild Child; the Inner Child who can never get quite enough. If you are a true chocolate lover, then your soul and mine are intertwined.

Cupcakes and Yoo-Hoo: (the Blessing of the Yoo-Hoo)

We all come for the Chocolate
And for it we shall remain
‘Til we get our fill—
No calories and no weight gain.

DISMISS QUARTERS:

HPS: Oh, ye mighty goodies of the ______, We thank you for attending our rites and guarding our circle. And ere you depart for your sweet and sticky realms, We say unto you, “N-E-S-T-L-E-S, Nestles makes the very best.”

ALL: “Chooooc-laaate.” (use sacred hand signs to salute the close of each quadrant)

Close circle. (HPS, HP and Elements join hands and intone as they lower hands to the ground to earth the Circle)

Haagen Daaz Forever!

copyright August 1993, John L. Shepard. Permission is given to post anywhere as long as the content is not altered and this notice is attached.

Added to and revised by Daven Jan 2000.

Originally posted 2009-11-14 14:46:56.

Bill Witt

Webster defines meditation as “The act of meditating; close or continued thought; the revolving of a subject in the mind.”

To meditate is to focus mentally on one thought, idea, or concept. It may also mean, to revolve an idea in your mind so as to change the way in which you think of that idea. Meditation is therefore, a tool with which you may manipulate thought in an organized manner.

Many people view meditation as a very difficult thing to learn. In reality though, we do it often without even knowing it. When you daydream or find your mind fixed on one thought, that is a form of meditation. Have you ever watched a bird in flight, or stared up at the clouds in the sky, or maybe even found yourself watching a stream of water flow by? If you have and at that moment the rest of the world around you has seemed removed, then you were in a state of meditation. The real key to this practice, is to be able to exercise control over your thoughts and awareness of the world around you.

There are many groups of people for whom meditation is an everyday ritual. Others use it at special times as a means of relaxation and “mental house cleaning.” It allows the individual a freedom unlike no other freedom. The freedom to look inside oneself and learn just who you are. Some use it as a way of being closer to nature or God. No matter how you wish to use it, you will find it a healthy and very rewarding experience.

Most all religions practice meditation in one way or another. Eastern philosophies such as Yoga, and Buddism are not the only ones to view meditation as a way of looking for the Truth found in one’s own consciousness. Even in Christianity meditation finds a place of value. The Bible itself mentions the value of meditation. In writing to the Phillippians, the Apostle Paul tells them this. “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” (Phil. 4.8)

So you ask, what can it do for me. Well, beyond just being a good way to really relax, which we can all use in this hectic world, it can be a doorway to the Truth inside yourself. It is a way of gaining wisdom. Knowledge has always been fairly easy to come by. Wisdom on the other hand, is a bit harder to grasp onto.

In “The Task” by William Cowper, the following line is found. “Knowledge dwells in heads replete with thoughts of other men: Wisdom, in minds attentive to their own.”

For me, mediation becomes a way of “grounding” myself, of reaching a place of peace and stability, where I can find how I fit into the universe.

In many philosophies, mediation is viewed as a necessary skill. All those who are students of these philosophies must learn the ways of mediation early in their training. Although the techniques may vary from one group to another, the most basic concepts remain the same. The ability to be able to focus on one thought and selectively block out all others is the foundation upon which many more advanced skills will be built. These skills may range from telepathy to the ability to move objects with only the mind.

It is well known that Yogi adepts can lower their breathing and heart rates to near death levels. This is something you should not try as it takes years of practice to learn and can be quite dangerous. Still, these yogis are proof of the type of power the mind can exercise over the body through meditation.

In some cultures, the use of drugs to achieve a meditative state is encouraged. The American Indians for example, used drugs derived from various plants to put themselves into an altered state of consciousness. This was usually done as a religious practice and as an event marking the change from one state of life to another. A good example would be the ceremony marking the coming into manhood of a young boy. Today there are still many, who advocate the use of drugs to achieve these altered states. It is my opinion that such measures are neither necessary nor good. You can reach an altered state of consciousness without the use of drug induced “highs”. It takes practice, but it can be done.

In New Age philosophy, the art of mediation is highly valued. We also find another well developed skill which is called “creative visualization”. This is the idea of visualizing what you want to the point of it becoming reality. A good example would be a salesman visualizing himself as successful and prosperous. The concept is simple, if you can visualize a personal reality, you can change or bring that reality into being. “Positive Thinking” is a very similar idea. The technique of creative visualization goes beyond positive thinking however. It deals with the premise that we all create our own reality and therefore have the power to change many aspects of that reality. The idea of “personal reality” is a lengthy one and we do not have enough room to cover it in this course.

So far we have looked briefly at what meditation is and how it is used. By no means have we touched on all the aspects of this practice. There are many books on the subject which cover it in much more detail. My purpose is to give you an overview of the many facets of meditation in the hope that you will wish to learn more.

Basic Meditation Techniques

This is the second part of a three part online course in Basic Meditation Techniques

The course is divided into three sections. Section one deals with what meditation is and how it plays a part in the lives of those who use it. Section two will go into the techniques and tools of meditation. Section three gives suggestions on how to use what you’ve learned, in everyday life. A list of books for further reading on the subject, will be given at the end of section three.

In this second section of the “Basic Meditation Techniques” course, we will discuss various relaxation procedures and how they will aid you in entering a trance or meditative state. You will also be given some ideas about types of music and other “tools” which can help you achieve these relaxed states of mind. Let’s begin.

First, let’s set the stage for our meditation practice. You should pick a place which is as private and safe as possible. An altered state of mind, as in meditation, lessens your awareness of the outside world. For this reason, it is not advisable to practice these techniques in a public place where there is a chance of being mugged, robbed, or molested. If you are at home, with other family members or friends present, ask that you not be disturbed and that all other noise in the house be kept to a minimum. When you have found a place suitable for meditation, you may begin.

“The seekers of new mind states-the mind control devotees, the encounter group enthusiasts, the drug takers, the psychics, the meditators – all are on a journey into the interior universe trying to burst the limits of the socially conditioned mind. Weither acceptable or unacceptable, moral or immoral, wise or foolish, the mind of man is stirring toward a new evolution.” Dr. Barbara Brown (1)

As I said in section one, trance or meditative states, alter the way your mind deals with the realities it accepts as normal. Things which are experienced in a trance state are often not easily expressed in everyday language. You will at some level, experience a heightened state of awareness. Colors, smells, and sounds may seem amplified from what they normally are.

People who can achieve very deep states of trance often leave their bodies in astral projection, or have psychic experiences.

I highly recommend, that if you wish to enter deep states of meditation, you do so under the guidance and teaching of someone who is well trained in the practice of such techniques. The key thing to remember is that it’s not what level your working on as much as what you are learning. There is a lot to be gained in wisdom and knowledge at all levels of trance.

Now let’s learn some simple and useful relaxation exercises.

You want to be sure that the time you pick to practice your meditation is a time when you are least likely to be disturbed. You should not be overly tired or have just finished eating as both of those conditions may cause you to fall asleep. Even though you wish to achieve an altered state of consciousness, you do want to remain conscious to some degree. If you fall asleep when you are meditating, no harm is done and you will awaken quite refreshed and rested. Unfortunately though, you may not be able to recall all the things you experienced while in trance.

If you are lying down, be sure your back and neck are properly supported so as not to fatigue the body. If you are sitting, be sure that both feet are flat on the floor and that you are sitting as erect as possible without being too stiff or strained. You should have your arms resting comfortably in your lap with palms up.

In either case, it is important that your body not become strained or fatigued for at least thirty minutes. This is a good length of time to begin with as it should put neither a physical or mental strain on your being.

Next, visualize a yourself in a cocoon of white light. You should surround yourself completely. See the light as bright and warm. You may play with this sphere of light making it bigger or smaller until it “feels” right for you. Say to yourself, “I am protected by the pure white light of all that is good and truthful. I am surrounded by the pure light which keeps out all unwanted and evil influences.”

This is a good idea to do for several reasons. There are those, and I am one of them, who believe that each of generates an aura which protects us from outside influences when we are in trance. This aura may be strengthened by visualizing the light as growing brighter at our command. Even if you do not accept this idea, the practice lends a feeling of safety and security to you. Nothing which is outside of you may enter or touch you without your permission.

Learning to control and pay attention to your breathing is the next step. You should start by taking a deep breath in through your nose, hold it for the mental count of 4 and then let it all out slowly through your mouth. Repeat this until you begin to feel at rest and relaxed. Allow your breathing to settle into a steady, rhythmic rate. Just this simple technique can relax and refresh you at any time. When you are only doing the breathing exercise, it is not necessary to go through the white light sphere visualization. Some people use a muffled metronome or recording of some other rhythmic sound, such as ocean waves, to aid them in setting the pace of their breathing. A good source of recorded sounds which can help you in meditation is a series of records and tapes which have been produced under the title “ENVIRONMENTS”.

Now, as you are breathing, see yourself lying in the warm light of the sun. The light is warm and pleasant to be in. Starting with the tips of your toes, feel the light warming all of your body, slowly moving up into your legs, your trunk, and then into your arms and fingers. As you feel this warming become more and more relaxed, going deeper and deeper into a calm and quiet place.

When you fell totally relaxed and at peace, bring a single thought into your mind. It should be of a pleasant experience or of an idea such as love, joy, peace, or compassion. Focus on this one thought and if some other thought should try to intrude, picture it as being written on a clear board between you and your focal thought. Then picture it being erased from that board as it might be from a piece of paper. Deal with any thought, other than your focal thought, quickly. Try to maintain concentration on your focal thought for at least five minutes. Picture it as being real and experience it as if it were. When you are able to do this and can exclude all other thoughts as they attempt to enter your mind, you will have learned the single most important technique of meditation.

It is now time to begin coming back to normal consciousness. slowly let the thought fade from your mind and again become aware of the warm light of the sun. As you fell the light bathing you in its’ warmth, start to reconnect your mind with the physical sensations of your body. Become aware of your breathing and the room around you. Do this slowly and calmly. When you are fully aware of your surroundings, open your eyes slowly. Enjoy the sense of calm and peace.

If you succeeded in doing this exercise, you should feel more relaxed and calm than normal. It is important to remember that you are comparing it to normal for you, not to what you think others would or should feel.

If you do not feel you succeeded try again in a day or two. Between mediation sessions, practice your deep breathing exercises. If you keep trying, you will soon reach a calm and meditative state. Do not attempt to meditate when you are ill, tired, or hungry. Those feelings only serve to make your efforts more difficult. A very important part to remember is that you can not force yourself into a meditative state. You must flow into it and surrender to it calmly.

Some things which are found to be helpful in meditation follow.

Try concentrating on the flame of a candle when focusing. You could also use a crystal ball. The later is rather expensive but small crystal window ornaments or pyramids also work well and cost much less.

Music is also an aid to some. The music should be quiet and rhythmic. It should bring on feelings of peace and comfort. Such music may range from New Age recordings to classical.

Another useful device is to focus on a symbol which holds special meaning for you. It may be an well known symbol or one you design yourself. As long as it holds a special meaning or expresses a special concept, it is a useful focusing tool.

This brings section two of this course to a close. In the next part I will give you some practical ways in which to use what you have learned.

The most obvious use of the techniques you have learned, is relaxation. During the course of the day, many of us have moments when the pressure becomes almost to much. When this happens, we often can’t deal with other people or projects the way we should. The breathing exercises you learned in section two can help at these times.

It doesn’t require a lot of time or absolute quiet as does your meditation practice. All that is required is about five minutes and relative privacy. At these times, begin doing your rhythmic breathing and visualize a place which is calm and refreshing. This simple and quick exercise, can work wonders to help you regain control in a hectic situation.

Another way in which meditation is used is in the development of psychic powers. There are several books on the subject, listed at the end of this section. Most of those who teach about the use and development of these abilities, agree that meditation is necessary to any such study. Again the reason for this is that meditation allows you to reach an altered state of consciousness. In this altered state your mind is more open to such phenomenon as telepathy. If you should decide to pursue studies in this direction, please seek the help of someone trained in these areas.

One final use I will suggest is visualization. Meditation can be used as a tool for problem solving. While in a meditative state of mind, you have the ability to take any situation and manipulate it. By that I mean you can mentally play the out the situation using several different solutions. Then, you can pick the one which seems to best solve the problem. While the use of meditation can help you deal with problem solving more effectively, it is not infallible. All it can do is allow you to think more clearly and concisely about the problem at hand.

Well that concludes this study on meditation. I hope you have gained something useful from this course. It has been by no means, a full explanation of the subject. There is much more to learn than could be covered in this short series and It is my hope that you will want to continue your studies into this fascinating and useful skill.

More studies of this type will be developed in the near future. The New Atlantis BBS will continue to post these studies as an ongoing service to it’s users. Please feel free to leave suggestions on the BBS about subjects you would like to see covered.

Selected Bibliography:

list of books for further reading will be included.

References:

(1) Dr. Barbara Brown
“New Mind, New Body”
New York, Bantam Books, 1975
Page 17

Miriam Simos (Starhawk)
The Spiral Dance
New York
Harper & Row; 1979

W.E. Butler
How To Read The Aura, Practice
Psycometry, Telepathy and
Clairvoyance
New York
Destiny Books; 1978

Melita Denning & Osborne Phillips
The Development of Psychic Powers
St. Paul, MN
Llewellyn Publications; 1985

Originally posted 2009-11-14 15:02:46.

<– Continued from

STATING PURPOSE:

State your purpose. Have a clear, short speech ready for this. A purpose that is complex is rather like a complex wish made to a genie–you don’t know what you’ll get. So you want to make sure your purpose is simple and direct. State it aloud, and give it your entire concentration–this is what you *WANT*. It should be the only thing on your mind at that moment.

The statement of purpose is followed by the body of the ritual. This will vary wildly depending on the ritual. Perhaps you will do candle magic, or perhaps you will meditate, perhaps you will enact a “spell” where you burn something, perhaps you will sit and travel out of your body in search of advise from a spirit guide. You may take a bath, wander on a quest through your back yard, look through an old photo album, or sing songs. The possibilities are limited only by your imagination.

We will go into possibilities for the body of a ritual, in detail, later on.

CLOSING:

When you have finished doing whatever it is your ritual requires, you may choose to “end” by raising a cone of power. This involves envisioning something, be it light, butterflies, fire, flowerpetals, stars, sand, photographs, musical notes, feathers, soap bubbles or wild buffalo….well, maybe not the bison….something in tune with your ritual, something that contains your will, your wants, all the energy you’ve created within your circle, and you imagine it spinning clockwise. You may start to hum, or drum, or shake a rattle, or just imagine a sound or a song building (or imagine silence if that suits).

Make your magic spin faster and as it spins faster, raise it up. Lifting your hands helps here. UP and up and up and then, when you feel it can spin no faster, go no higher, throw up your hands and send it off!!

GROUND!

Ground immediately afterwards! Understand that even after you’ve used or sent off the magic/energy, you’re still sizzling with the residue. When you ground yourself after a spell or ritual, the excess goes back down into the earth. If you don’t do this, it continues to crackle around you; it can distract you, depress you, cause minor, klutzy accidents or, as with one person I talked, give you nasty headaches (etc. etc. etc.).

Grounding is simple–either touch the ground, or hold out your hands, palm down, toward the earth.

The centering at the beginning makes for better rituals, and the grounding at the end is *very* comforting, rather like taking a shower after working up a sweat. If, for any reason, you find that the grounding did not do the job, call a friend and have them talk you down–some people who are particularly powerful/magically or psychically sensitive sometimes have trouble with grounding and require assistance (they work up so much magic that they either get lost in it, or find that their efforts, alone, are not enough).

Some people like to follow their grounding with meditation in order to help “come down” from that rush of a cone of power.

DISMISSAL:

To conclude–Thank your guardian (and/or the Goddess/God), dismiss the quarters (the dismissal is usually simpler and shorter than the calling, something like: “Powers of the East we thank you for your help. Go or stay as you will; may there be peace between us always”.

With the dismissal of the east, the circle is “open”–in some traditions, you point your Atheme or wand and, going counter- clockwise, undo the circle you cast at the beginning–in other traditions it is not thought necessary. Up to you.

And you can ritualistically say: “The Circle is open, but not unbroken, Merry met, and Merry part and Merry meet again”–yes, you can say this even if you are a solitary.

CREATING A RITUAL:

***Any ritual requires imagination and visualization–don’t just go though steps, envision the energy that comes out of your hands, your wand, when you use it, see the ghostly veils that part as you use your Atheme, imagine fairy lights, magic fire, the glow at the center of your crystal, the Milky Way spiral of stars that fills your cauldron, the dragons you command, the elves who obey your wishes, the phantom owl who listens and flies off to relay your message to powers of another plane. Etc, etc, etc!–*see* what you create and do! (ex: Don’t just burn the incense, *envision* the power you release with that fragrance! If it’s sage, *see* it’s slivery green cleansing power.) This envisioning is what alters a ritual from choreographed steps into a dance!***

Assuming that you’re going to work a ritual out ahead of time (and not do it off the cuff), here’s what you need to do for almost any ritual:

1) Decide on a date and time. Meditate or sleep on it, following what inspiration tells you. You may wish to choose either the next new moon or full moon, or you may wish to consult your astrological calendars or a calendar which can tell you what special (but obscure/magical) days are ahead.

2) Decide on a tone for the ritual– again, follow your instincts here; do you want it celebratory or serious, quiet or filled with music, dark with a single candle, or brilliant with a dozen lights? What kind of ambiance and tone do you want? What’s right for you?

3) Start a “shopping list” of things you’ll need. Keep it on a separate sheet of paper so that you can add to it, subtract from it, change it as need and inspiration arises. List everything you’re going to need from towels to dry your hands, to what you plan to wear (jewelry included), to decorations, the color of the candles, the flavor of the incense, etc.

4) Make a “to do” list for what you need to do ahead of time for the ritual, including shopping (buying candles, matches, oil, incense, cookies, a new table cloth, etc.), cleaning, arranging to get your spouse out of the house or your children to visit a friend’s, the cats fed, etc. All the pre- ritual stuff.

5) On scrap paper or the computer, start writing out the ritual. Start with decorating/cleaning the space, and–with help from the shopping list–note what needs to go where for the ritual (towels by the bath, incense in the burner, matches and an ashtray ready, plate of cookies right outside the space, etc.); remind yourself to turn off the phone ringer, turn down the sound on the answering machine, lock the doors, shut off the lights, and prepare the music.

6) On a second sheet, work out how you plan to do the personal cleansing, grounding, how you plan to cast the circle, call the quarters– write up all words you’re going to speak.

7) On a third sheet, work out the body of the ritual–how you plan to perform the ritual, what steps you’ll go through, what you’ll say and, most importantly *WHAT YOU WILL ENVISION!*.

On a fourth sheet, write up how you plan to conclude the ritual–if you’ll raise a cone of power and/or meditate, remind yourself to ground, and decide on how you’ll dismiss the quarters and open the circle.

Go over these pages; change the ritual until it works for you. If you like, write up the final form in your Book of Shadows (if you’re a Wiccan, this is your personal book of rituals, recipes, magic and spells). Or just write it up on fresh sheets of paper.

Highlight, use sticky pad paper, or paperclips to make going over the ritual easy. Remember that rituals are open book open note– it’s great if you’re familiar with your ritual and don’t have to look, but don’t be afraid to look (this is why a book of shadows is so great–it makes looking up what comes next *part* of the ritual!). Also, don’t be afraid to change, alter or improvise–you created the ritual, and you can change it on the spot if you need to!

Half-an-hour before the ritual, go over your notes. Re-familiarize yourself with it. Don’t be nervous, you’re not going to be tested; if you make a mistake, it’s alright, it *will not* ruin the ritual!

Likely your first ritual (within your very own sacred space!) will be a ritual to dedicate/consecrate that space to your guardian “power”. You might care to pair this short ritual with a Dedication ritual (or rededication as the case may be).

While both these rituals can be non- denominational, the dedication ritual is primarily Pagan/Wiccan. It is the Pagan/Wiccan equalivant of a Catholic’s first communion, a new Baptist’s baptismal, or a Jewish Bar Mitzvah–with less partying. This is where you make a commitment, where you dedicate yourself to God/Goddess, where you name/re-name yourself a Pagan/Wiccan. Wiccans rededicate themselves every year, which I think is good as it establishes a continuing commitment, and, each year, makes us pause to re-think the path we’ve chosen and, freely, to choose it once again.

The usual day for Dedicating/Re- dedicating yourself to the God/Goddess is Imbolc (Candlemas) which is on February 2, but you may Dedicate/Re-dedicate yourself on any day that seems right to you.

DEDICATING YOUR SPACE:

Alright, down to the nitty-gritty! What sort of ritual *should* you do to dedicate your space?

I’m going to toss out various ideas for you to use, discard, or modify–in the end, all rituals have to be yours–this is your space, your dedication to your guardian, only you know what is right, what needs to be there or not.

I believe that a ritual dedication of a space should be celebratory, rather like christening a ship or opening a road or cheering the New Year! It’s a new beginning when you create and dedicate a new space. So I would top my shopping list with a small, personal bottle of sparkling wine (or cider or water if you don’t drink!) with which to fill my goblet! (I’d go for a crystal flute to stand as my goblet! Make it special, as you usually only consecrate a space once!)–what a wonderful bit of ritual it is to pop a cork, watch the mist smoke off the bottle mouth, and then pour yourself a frothing, foamy glass! *Very positive*.

One nice idea might be to hang a ribbon across the doorway leading to the space after it has been cleaned and decorated. Part of the ritual would be to symbolically “open” the space with the cutting/untying of the ribbon. Or, use your imagination and create an invisible ribbon of power that your atheme can separate, thus symbolically “opening” the space to you!

Another way to consecrate a ritual space is to keep your guardian symbol outside of the space until it’s ready. Make setting the symbol in it’s place of honor part of the ritual so that you “crown” the space with it. This would likely occur after your have cast the circle and called the quarters.

Set the Guardian in its place of honor, light the candles and the incense, and then invite the Guardian to be with you always, and thank the Guardian for it’s presence in your new space.

One of the things you might want to do with this ritual is use incense or holy water to cleanse the space and/or your tools. Take the incense round the room counter-clockwise. Pass your tools, one by one through the smoke, or sprinkle the room with the water, and sprinkle your tools as well. You can also pass the tools through fire, or sprinkle some Earth upon them (or do all three, Earth, fire, water).

You might want to say something akin to: “I remove all negativity from this_______________(name the tool). For now and always, it will be used for positive ends” or something like that. Always envision *something* as you perform these acts– for example, imagine each item spotlighted, imagine the negative vanishing from it, the dullness replaced by the a positive, magical glow.

Now you want to consecrate the tools and the space–place the tools on the alter, in the center either in your cauldron or on your power symbol of choice (ankh, cross, pentagram….), call up energy between your hands, draw it up, from the earth, from the water, from the air, from the candleflames; envision this energy, it’s color, the color of your power–is it violet? Silver? Gold? Brighten it, and then infuse your tools with the light–just aim it at them with your hands–and say something like “By my will and thine,” (referring to your guardian and/or the Lord/Lady), “I consecrate these, now and forever. And it harm none, let my will be done.” Let the energy engulf the tools, and then dissipate.

Do the same for the space, only this time, let your power fill the room, and say instead “I consecrate this space, now and forever…etc.” And finally, place your hands on your alter and, sending energy into it, say: “I consecrate this alter, now and forever, by thy grace ________________ (name guardian), an it harm none, let our will be done.”

Don’t forget to GROUND!

End by popping the cork, filling your flute, and toasting the Guardian with a hearty drink of sparkling wine; then thank the guardian, and open the circle.

BURNING WORDS/SYMBOLS/PICTURES:

Burning or defacing written words, symbols or pictures poses a problem to most, law- abiding Westerners. This is because we associate such with negative images of fanatics burning books, attempts to censor and mob violence. We think of people burning those they despise in effigy, of flags burning in angry protest. And, from what we’ve seen, far from easing anger, the burning of such things usually incites people to burn down other things, like embassies.

So how can we go about burning/defacing written words, symbols or pictures in good conscience? More, burning/defacing them for our own personal good?

First, let’s establish that you should never burn/deface anything out of anger:

1) To burn/deface something in anger/out of hate will do you no good. It will not ease your anger. Like the ungovernable mobs, it could easily make you angrier–because you know that this is symbolic, not the real thing, and it’s the *real thing* you want to burn.

2) To burn/deface something in anger/out of hate is an act of vengeance—since you cannot harm your object of hate, you burn a symbol of it. But the intent is the same, to do it damage, to erase it. This is very like sending out a spell to do harm–and as all you Wiccans know, any magic you do with intent to harm will come back to you threefold.

3) Burning something in anger/out of hate is usually a spur of the moment act which, if you’d taken a moment to think it over, you probably would not have done. As said before, the act won’t make you feel better. On the contrary, it might leave you fearful (if you burn a Bible, you might end up fearing God’s retribution) or regretful (if you burn a favorite picture of someone you love, you might end up regretting later).

So, under what circumstances might you burn/deface written words, symbols or pictures?

In the East, it is a commonplace to write prayers on paper, then burn them. In Tibet, complex sand mandalas are created, fantastic works of art, that are then destroyed by pouring them into the sea–this to send the magic out, and also to remind the monks that nothing is permeate. There are also ceremonies where people burn symbolic objects to release themselves from whatever was holding them back.

There are, in short, two very good reasons for burning/defacing written words, symbols or pictures:

1) To send out their magic: in this case, you write down a wish or a prayer or a poem, bless it and empower it, then burn it at the end or the ritual, transforming it into air that it may spread its magic.

2) To release the power the words/symbols/pictures hold over you if their message (to you) is negative.

#1 being fairly obvious, we’re going to focus, primarily, on #2.

Here are the rules regarding burning words, symbols or pictures that represent a negative influence:

1) That you own the object you intend to burn (don’t burn a book someone else loaned you!) 2) That you burn it without anger. 3) That you are not burning it in an attempt to “hide/censor it” (like a fanatic burning a book so no one else can read it, or because they believe it is evil). 4) That the ashes be buried or dropped in running water, not in the garbage! 5) That you take care to burn it with *all* safety! watching that no burning ashes go floating away to start a fire. 6) That you burn it in a ritual for your own emotional, psychological, spiritual well being (or the emotional, psychological, spiritual well being of others).

Or, to put it another way, *INTENT* is what really matters when you burn/deface something.

I remember speaking to one former Christian who, though a long time practicing Wiccan, was still having paranoid anxiety attacks about the biblical Apolycolypse.

I recommended to her a ritual which included finding the passages that most disturbed her, tearing them out or Xeroxing them, and burning them. The aim here was to release her from the power these words had over her.

IT WAS *NOT* (and I emphasize this! NOT NOT NOT) to show contempt or hatred for another religion’s sacred book. There is no reason in the world that respect for another religion’s belief should interfere with a personal, private ritual wherein you release yourself, in whatever peaceful and harmless way necessary, from the dominating, destructive power of a written word, symbol or picture.

That said: In what other ways can you release yourself from the power that words, symbols or pictures have over you? Or people or things for that matter?

One way is to take the words, cut them up, and reform them into other sentences–in this ritual, you take a passage that has control over you and you take control over it, you remove it’s power, and empower yourself. You see the words for what they are: Words.

If a person has control/power over you (and here’s where we get to defacing!), like an old lover, dominating parents, or even a figure in the news, take a picture of them, and, with marker in hand, draw clown hats on their heads, silly mustaches, weird glasses, etc. Do this before you tear or burn the picture, as you need to reduce them from their position of Tyrant before you can, by tearing/burning, symbolically break their hold on you.

If it’s a thing or institution that has power over you, sketch a picture (or get a photo) of whatever might symbolize that thing or institution and do something likewise to it (deface, cut up, tear or burn).

Just make sure that you do this within the context of a ritual geared toward this purpose (to release you from this thing’s power!). This is a “freedom” ritual, and it’s intent is to transform *you*–you’re not going to change your parents, your old religious institution, your boss, or your old lover, but you can change yourself, how you deal with, react or view these things.

A ritual which involves burning, defacing, cutting or tearing words, symbols, pictures can do this, powerfully. Your recognition of it’s power is, in part, what makes you leery, hesitant or fearful of it–your caution is good. No such ritual should be done lightly. On the other hand, these methods should not be feared or rejected out of hand. Used wisely, well and *SPARINGLY*, they can really change your life–even save it!

SEX MAGIC:

WARNING: This section will be discussing some well, not exactly graphic but certainly frank and factual information regarding SEX! Be warned!

Rituals/spells involving SEX are among the most powerful that can be done, which is why you have to use GREAT CAUTION when using Sex in a ritual!

One of the best known uses of Sex in a ritual is the GREAT RITE where, through the union of the HP (High Priest) and HPS (High Priestess)- -(usually done away from the rest of the coveners in a secluded place)–the coven sends off it’s cone of power.

Here’s a more common type of ritual/sex spell that can be done by you and a loved one your very own home:

Decide on something you both want/need badly. Focus on a keyword for the need or want (I don’t think I need remind you that it should be a *positive* need/want–like healing magic or finding a much needed job). Cleanse and consecrate the bedroom (or wherever you’re going to do this), decorate according to purpose. Take a bath or shower together by way of self-cleansing. Together, cast the circle, call the quarters, and state your purpose.

Then…get to work!

Relax, use aromatic message oils, feathers, special music (whatever turns you on) and, well, do what comes naturally. As thing get heated, as agreed, you both need to focus and, as much as possible, think about the want/need. Visualize (again, as best as possible) the energy building around the two of you, pulsing, growing, sizzling. When you climax (and you need not, uh, come together), speak the keyword aloud or in your mind, over and over and over—send it off with the erupting energy.

Make sure you have both climaxed, then come down, *GROUND*–cuddle and snuggle awhile and then, before you go to sleep, open the circle.

Now, here’s what you have to remember before you race ahead to try this:

1) Be sure you *REALLY LOVE* your partner, and that you *really, really, really* want to be with them *forever*–’cause the more sex magic you do with someone, the more you bind them, Karmically, emotionally, spiritually to you (and you to them!). And *this* is not the *only* life in which you’re going to be with them! The more sex magic you engage in with them, the more likely you’re going to meet them again and again in your next life. You don’t want to be karmically bound to a jerk!

I told you this is *SERIOUS* stuff!

2) BOTH PARTNERS MUST FULLY UNDERSTAND AND AGREE TO THIS! That doesn’t just mean that you say to your lover, “hey lover, tonight while we’re doing it, let’s think about a new house….”–No, no, no, no! Both of you have to be equally aware of what you plan to do, both of you have to agree and work out the ritual, both of you have to know what you are doing and believe in what you are doing!

3) DO NOT DO THIS RITUAL AT THE LAST MINUTE! This is not a ritual to do impromptu! The energy you’re calling up is too powerful! Choose the day/night with care and plan out your ritual IN ADVANCE! Obviously, the sex has to be “impromptu” (indeed, should be impromptu, creative, NEVER FORCED or stiff or mechanical!–you should, in all senses of the word *MAKE LOVE* or else you undermine the power of the sex) but everything else should be carefully choreographed. You want to feel confident about this.

4) If it turns out that, for all your planning, this just isn’t the night for one of you–stop, relax, laugh about it, and agree to do it another day.

5) Do not even *attempt* a sex ritual until and unless you feel yourself a competent ritual priest/priestess! This should not be one of the first rituals you try!

You’re probably wondering what will happen if you don’t listen to me–well, you can take it from me, the result will be a *DISASTER*! I messed up once (we won’t get into details on what I did wrong). The morning after, everything was completely out of balance- – things kept going wrong; negative dominated, positive was no where in sight. I had to restore the balance–which I did with a dismissal spell–*TWO of them!*

So heed this warning! Be very careful about using Sex in a ritual!

WHAT TO DO IF THINGS GO WRONG!

Sometimes rituals or spells can go wrong. Likely, when they do go wrong it’s from:

(1) Either forgetting to ground or shield (problems arising from these are very temporary unless you’re highly sensitive). (2) Because you used the ritual to deliberately harm someone. (3) You involved an unprepared partner (see the section on SEX MAGIC). (4) Your intent was not clear or befuddled by something else (usually a negative emotion like anger or hate).

The more rituals you do in a state of negative emotion, the more unbalanced/tangled your life can become.

So what do you do? Don’t panic! The effects usually do not last that long (30 days max). If they are not that bad, but really annoying and troublesome, try this little ritual from Silverwolf’s *TO RIDE A SILVER BROOMSTICK*:

*Decorate: Nothing more is needed here beyond a pen, paper and a pair of candles–a pair is good as it emphasizes balance. Pick two opposing colors, black/white, or rainbow candles. Use protective incense, wear protective symbols or gem stones.

Shield, and spend extra time centering.

*Cast the circle and call quarters. Your intent is to restore balance!

*Light candles, and by their light write something akin to the following:

On the day/eve of ________________ I cast a spell, The effect of which was ________________ May this spell be lifted and I be gifted with______________

If you write the spell, fold the paper three times and set it in the center of your alter or burn it. If you say the spell, say it three times while turning counterclockwise.

GROUND–and then spend a little time meditating, relaxing, feeling the balance restored inside you.

IF YOU HAVE A **MAJOR** IMBALANCE then try this ritual for restoring balance:

*In this case, go all out, cleansing, decorating–include a pair of scales in the ritual. Put something significant on the scales to unbalance them (coins, for example, if it involves money, I-ching coins if it involves divination, salt for almost anything else, sand for dreams gone wrong, or appropriate gem stones or herbs). Put all these to the right side if you feel that the imbalance favors the masculine while depriving the feminine. Put them to the left side if the opposite is true.

*Place the scale between the candles. Cleanse the area with smoke or saltwater.

*After self-cleansing, dressing protectively, casting the circle, calling the quarters- – invoke a god/goddess of balance to help you in this ritual along with your guardian deity.

*Light the candles and state purpose (to restore balance), and then with atheme or a wooden spoon (which you blessed) or your fingers, move objects (stones, coins, whatever) from one side of the scales to the other, little by little, until the balance is restored.

As you spoon or shift the objects, envision the objects glowing with your color or with a color appropriate to solving your problem (green or gold for money, for example). As each one is set upon the empty/opposite side of the scales, imagine the scales taking on a glow. The more they balance, the brighter they glow.

When the scales are balanced (make sure before hand, by the way, that they *will* be balanced–an odd number of coins won’t do it!), step back, and see the scales glowing with the radiance of balance.

*Infuse the scales with light, and then let the light dissipate/shoot out into the universe. Ground and meditate on being calm and balanced within.

*Thank the deities who helped you, dismiss the quarters and open the circle.

This ritual can also be done with a tangled bit of red string or a silver/gold necklace. As you untangle the string, imagine the tangle of your energy becoming untangled. When all knots are out, imagine the string radiating with energy, bright, brighter, until you can send it out.

If none of this works, contact friends and get some help–your energy is too tangled/unbalanced, you need others to help you untangle/balance it.

This ends Rituals: Sacred Acts in Sacred Space.

There are three other files regarding Rituals that were formed from the ritual study class. They are: CYBR.TXT an informal tutorial on how to create rituals in/for Cyberspace

LIFE.TXT discusses rituals for birth, adulthood, marriage, croning and death.

SABB.TXT covers holiday/Sabbath rituals: Yule (Winter Solstice), Imbolc, Spring Equinox, Beltane, Midsummer, Lammas, Vernal Equinox and Samhain (Holloween).

Peace and light to you, Sister or Brother; may all your rituals bring you the blessings of the Goddess and the God. So Mote it be!

Originally posted 2009-10-27 19:19:55.

Materials Needed:

• Sword (doesn’t matter if sword is just for decor)
• candles (1 for each element +1 black candle)
• incense (preferably a dark colored incense any flavor)
• strip of leather (length of sword)
• bowl full of water (cauldron works)

Begin by cleansing your materials. Give any opening offerings to the Gods of your choice (preferably war Gods). Plot the land where you will work (mandatory outdoor ritual). Light the black candle and keep it burning throughout the ritual. Cast a circle using the sword by drawing the circle around you. Put sword in center of circle. Light the candle that represents Water and say:

In the element of Water I bless this sword to my name  (your name here) .

Stretch out the leather and lay it across the sword. Let a few drops of the candle wax drop on the leather. Extinguish the candle. Light the candle for Earth and say:

In the name of the God (God’s name here) I bless this sword of the Earth.

Let some wax drip on the leather. Extinguish the candle. Light the candle for Air and the incense and say:

In the name of the Goddess (Goddess’s name here) I bless this of Air.

Let some wax drip on the leather. Extinguish candle. Light the candle for Fire. Pick up the sword wave it above the Fire of the candle and say:

I dedicate this sword in the name of the following Gods (their names here).

I dedicate it to my self for (whatever reason here) and prey that thy bidding will be mine.

Let the wax drip on the sword. Tie the leather to where the wax is on the sword and say:

As I am without, I also am within. Bind this sword to me and my kin. I ask thee gods for Their greatness. So Mote It Be!

Leave the sword in the circle until the next full moon (optional) and then come back at the full moon and say:

I trust ye to be blessed. I pick you up. Now and forever ye be mine.

Say closing prayers and close the circle.

Originally posted 2009-11-14 14:49:41.

Please note a few things:

First, this is a ritual specifically for the ODU.  It’s posted here to give an example of the kind of ritual the ODU uses.  The elements of this ritual will be found in every rite that the ODU uses.  It is also designed to identify the person who is performing this as a member of the ODU, specifically in the parting and closing of the veil.  If you object to this, change the wording in those two sections.

Second, the Deities called upon in here are who I felt would be appropriate.  You don’t have to call these Deities if you don’t want to, and you don’t have to sacrifice the same things I did to Them either.  It was what I felt was right and correct for each deity.

So, do this ritual at your own peril.

1. Prep Will need
   1. Realm Candles (Blue, green, White candles)
   2. Hallows representations
   3. God/goddess candles
   4. Sea shell
   5. Thanksgiving offerings
      • Small loaf of home made bread for Dagda
      • Copy of article to burn sacrifice to Tailtu
      • Blood to Lugh (Donated to the Red Cross)
      • Find out what Brigid wants.
2. Meditation of the Cauldron
   • Focus on providing/plenty/success
3. Statement of Purpose: To get a new job
4. Parting of the Veil
   

   “Manannan Mac Lir,
   Son of the Sea,
   Keeper of the veil
   Guardian of the pathways
   Between our world and the Otherworld.
   Hear the words of the Seer,
   We ask you to part the veil
   So that we may commune
   With the beings of the Otherworld Realms.”

5. Invocation of the Three Realms
   Invocation of the Sea (Blue):

   “I light this sacred flame,
   To represent the Realm of Sea.
   I call upon the Realm of Sea,
   The Realm of the Past.
   The Realm of the Ancestors.
   Let those of my ancestors who wish it to come;
   Come! Join with me in my sacred rite.”

   Invocation of the Land (Green):

   “I light this sacred flame,
   To represent the Realm of Land
   I call upon the Realm of Land,
   The Realm of the Present.
   Our realm, which we share with the Spirits of Nature.
   I invite these spirits and all those who walk upon the land to meet with me.
   Let my voice carry throughout the world
   And all of creation may hear my praise
   Come! Join with us in our sacred rite.”

   Invocation of the Sky (White):

   “I light this sacred flame,
   To represent the Realm of Sky
   I call upon the Realm of Sky,
   The Realm of the Future.
   Within the Sky lies my potential
   Where my spirit shall soar among the stars
   The realm of Sky the home Gods and the pathway of the Sun.
   Come! Join with me in my sacred rite.”

6. Invocation of the Lord and Lady
   • God: Dagda
     

     “Oh Great Dagda,
     King of the Gods,
     Father of all
     Bring your Cauldron and Club
     Join me in this Sacred Rite”

   • Goddess: Tailtu
     

     “Tailtu,
     Foster mother of Lugh
     Goddess of the Land and Prosperity
     Join me in this Sacred Rite
     And bless me an my family with your Bounty.”

   • God: Lugh
     

     “Lugh Simaldanich
     Master of All Crafts,
     Come and join me in this Sacred Rite
     Share with me your Wisdom and accomplishment
     And lend me your Spear.”

   • Goddess: Brigid
     

     “Great Goddess Brigid
     Smith, Craftsperson
     Mother and hearthkeeper
     Share with me your skill and your excellence
     Join me in this Sacred Rite.”

7. Working, spell section
   • Invocation of the Hallows
     1. Facing North:
        

        “I stand in Ulster, the land of Conflict
        I hold the Sword, symbol of Power
        I invoke the qualities of power
        And skill
        To overcome my opposition and objections
        In gaining this new job.”

     2. Facing East:
        

        “I stand in the East, in Leinster
        With me is the Cauldron.
        I call upon the twin qualities of plenty (from the Cauldron)
        And Success (from Leinster)
        Both these virtues will allow me to provide
        A living for myself and my family.”

     3. Facing South:
        

        “I stand in Munster, In the South
        I have the Stone here
        And call upon the qualities of new beginnings
        And of Destiny
        To bring a new day to me
        And help me with this new time.”

     4. Facing the Center:
        

        “In Meath, where I now stand
        I hold the Staff.
        The support of the staff
        The connection between all possibilities
        I call upon these to bear me forward
        And help me support myself and my family.”

     5. Facing the West:
        

        “In Connacht, the West, I come to last
        Holding the Spear
        Calling on the virtues of drive and directness
        And the help of the Ancestors
        I use the Spear to send my will
        Into the Otherrealms.”

   • Desire call: (Short Meditation to focus thoughts)
     

     “I call upon the Powers of Ancient Eire
     Great Sons and Daughters of Danu
     Mighty are your deeds
     Sounding down through the Centuries!
     Great is your renown!
     Bright is your Stars and Spirits!
     Your gifts have been great
     To me and the family of my heart.

     Hear my voice!
     I am your son, adopted into your Clan!
     In your image I see to be seen
     And Your knowledge I hope to gain
     Along with your Wisdom!
     Hear my voice calling to you.

     Oh Great Ones! Shining Ones!
     I beg a boon from you, a favor, a gift from your generous nature.
     Guide my hand to support my family
     Build the energies of success around me
     Lay out the path of Sovereignty before me.
     Bring me success in my endeavors
     Bring me skill in my trade!
     Bring me fulfillment of my dream!

     I am not afraid of hard work.
     I am not afraid of excellence, so long as it is rewarded.
     I need to provide for my family and Clan
     But now it is not possible.
     I need to support my family in more than we are now.
     Just surviving is not satisfying anymore.
     Things for the health of my family need to be done now.
     I am not able to do this as things stand now.

     As the man is the king of his castle
     So to is the king obligated to care for his subjects.
     My family is counting on me to provide
     But I can’t as things are now.

     (Tell the Gods what you hope for in detail, no more chanting.)

8. Divination: Water in the Cauldron scrying
9. Thanksgiving
10. Thanking and dismissing the Gods
11. Thanking and dismissing the Realms
    • Dismiss the Sky
      

      “I call into the vastness of the Sky
      This flame has burned in honor of the Realm of Sky
      The Realm of the Future.
      I have witnessed my potential
      My spirit has flown among the stars
      Great Realm of Sky
      The home Gods and the pathway of the Sun.
      I thank you for joining with me this day”

    • Dismiss the Realm of the Land
      

      “I call to the corners of the world,
      The Realm of the Present.
      My realm, which we share with the Spirits of Nature.
      I thank those who have joined me this day.
      Let my voice carry throughout the world
      That all of creation may hear my praise
      Praise which issues from me every second of my life.”

    • Dismiss the Realm of the Sea:
      

      “I call to the Realm of Sea,
      The Realm of the Past.
      The Realm of the Ancestors.
      This flame was kindled in your honor.
      I have been in this sacred place,
      I have honored the ancestors of this place
      And I honored the ancestors of my own lineages
      Leave with me the knowledge and wisdom of the past
      Guide me through my daily life.”

12. Closing the Veil
    

    “Manannan Mac Lir,
    Son of the Sea.
    Keeper of the veil.
    Guardian of the pathways
    Between our world and the Otherworld
    We have communed with the Ancestors,
    We have communed with the Spirits of Nature,
    We have honored the Gods and Goddesses.
    We ask that the veil be closed at this time.”

13. Sharing of bounty with the Land
    1. Burn the pages
    2. Break up the bread and eat some, distribute the rest to the Land
14. Meditation and grounding
15. Clean up

Originally posted 2009-11-14 14:26:39.

by Okana@aol.com

May the Circle of Life bless you with its Rainbow of Peace!

May each day’s golden sunrise breathe life into your quest for knowledge…
…and mid-day’s red fire strengthen your courage and teach you trust.

May the healing of cool sunset waters bathe you with caring plans for the future …
…and you be wrapped in a midnight blanket of gratitude and wisdom.

May you dance in the rhythms of Grandfather Sun and Grandmother Moon…
…and feel abundance and stability from the warm comfort of Mother Earth.

May you soar to reach lofty goals with the graceful flight of the Winged Ones…
… and know instinctively like the Creature Beings when to work and laugh, sleep and play.

May your talents and abilities blossom like the beautiful plants of the Standing Tribe …
…and your voice discern whether to speak or keep silent from the record-keeping Stone People.

May you humbly learn the magnitude of the universe at the feet of the twinkling Star Nation…
…and take joy in the luminous tapestry woven of people of all colors, languages, and beliefs.

May your innocence forever help you to see the world of Little People and other folk…
…and the Truth radiate from Within and around you to guide you on your Path.

May the Medicine and Miracle of these gifts brighten and nourish your Spirit…
… and may Love embrace you all of your days, and forever after.

copyright 1994, Okana/DJSC, all rights reserved

Originally posted 2009-11-14 15:01:09.

Edited to add: I really would like to hear your opinions on this movie.

Well, it’s been a while since there was some original news here, so I’m going to try to rectify that with this post.

First off, “no new news”. Some have noticed that the Journal here has been recycling old posts. That’s on purpose. I’ve had little new to say here, so I’ve found a WordPress plugin called Old Post Promoter which finds old posts and makes them new again. This is deliberate so that those who just found this site can see what is out there. Plus, there’s nearly 500 posts here, and I could recycle an old post a day for almost two years. I have it set so that every three days an old post is pulled up. I’m pretty sure that those who are regulars here haven’t read everything either. So it’s a boon for everyone.

I do promise as the Muse or the Gods strike me, I will put up a new post or an article. So absolutely new content will not be a stranger, but I do want you all to be entertained here and not bored by seeing weeks/months of no posts. I figure old posts are better than no posts.

I would suggest subscribing to the RSS feed since that will get you the posts that are put up, and if you recognize them, you don’t have to come here and read.

Now, for what I was putting this post up for. I’ve made another movie. Yeah, you get to see my ugly mug. On this movie, I talk about my Druid’s Staff. I had mentioned that I would make this to show you what I had on my staff, and here it is.

I make mention of “The Sage” from “Groo the Wanderer”. Here’s a picture of him that inspired the bottle:

Anyhow, I get my ideas all over, and this is the one that I thought was cool enough to be incorporated into a Druid’s staff. Use it or not.

You will be seeing on many religion blogs either that Halloween is dangerous and should be avoided by those who are truly religious, or probably posts from various flavors of Pagansim who are defending the Sabbat of Samhain. I won’t go into all those again, I’ll just direct you to Isaac Bonewits’ pages on his website on Samhain. He’s done a much better job than I could.

The Real Origins of Halloween
Halloween Errors and Lies

There is a page here that talks about Samhain:

Samhain Sabbat in Seax-Wica (note there is deity substitution present, this has been changed to reflect my deities)

No, I’m not going to go over that information again. What I am going to do is do an electronic ritual for you all.

So be it.

And that is the end of that ritual. Thank you for reading along. I hope it was as moving for you as it was for me.

Originally posted on October 31, 2006. Thank you for reading

Isaac Bonewits did a wonderful job in his book Authentic Thaumaturgy describing to gamers and roleplayers how magick works in the real word and the means to adapt real magick to work in their games.

But what about the opposite side? Can we adapt roleplaying to work with real magick? This article will explore the possibility that roleplaying can be an adjunct to any system of magick.

In any school of magick, one of the critical tools the student can bring is a trained, honed will. Being able to focus their desire and turn it into a reality is not a skill taught every day to the mass of Western Society. It is nearly an obsessive level of desire, forcing ones Will on the world around them to bring forth that which they desire. One way to train this Will is to have very clear and immediate visualizations of that which you want throughout the process.

One thing that I say whenever I discuss magick with others is that a magickian must hold the goal firmly in mind when doing any spell process to bring that goal to fulfillment. Keeping in mind the goal of having a job when the magickian submits a resume, applies for a job, talks to recruiters and actually does a ritual to raise energy to push into a spell magnifies that possibility of getting a job from a chance to a near certainty. But in order to hold that visualization that clearly, the magickian MUST be able to see it in their mind.  You don’t see the steps to the goal, you see the goal finished.

Role-Playing games help the visualization process and gives the magickian and role-player lots of practice with those very tools.

The actual process of role playing is pretty easy to understand. The player is given a character, generated by various means in the system they use. They are given a set of rules that various aspects of the play obey, like how combat works, how magick works, how character interactions operate and so on.  Then the play begins.

Note that there is no script provided. There is a backdrop world, but no specific sets that the characters interact upon until the person running the game (called the Game Master in many systems) tells them about the environment. Until that point, the world is wide open and brand new. It can be anything from a medieval world to a star faring race to a technological world where humanity is controlled by machines. Once the Game Master starts telling the players (and thus their characters) about the world and the situation they find themselves in, there is nothing.

If the Game Master is a good one, s/he can spin the description like a story, spinning myth and fact and rumor together to make a tapestry of information for the characters to interact within. The really good Game Masters can do it so well that the players can see their characters within the world itself, as though they were watching a movie of the mind. They know what a Troll looks like, how the starship console is laid out, the buttons they need to push and where they are when they go to shut off the world obliterating doomsday machine that the robots are preventing them from reaching. They can hear the moans of the injured, see the rain slick walls, smell the funk of an underground mine and feel the weight of the Earth pressing down on them.

And this very description and visualization is the key to good magick.

The player gets tons of practice sculpting scenes in their mind. Believe it or not this is one of the most difficult skills I had to learn when I was roleplaying.  To be able to hear the GM describe the basics of a scene, take the knowledge you have of your character and the world in general, along with the imagination you have and to be able to accurately reproduce the same scene the GM has in their head. I had to learn how to keep track of all the various opponents and characters as well as what I was doing simultaneously so I didn’t accidentally kill someone I didn’t want to in the process.

Roleplaying also helps increase the players skill of communication with others.  That’s a more important skill than you may realize simply because many people don’t learn to speak clearly anymore.  And being able to speak clearly is necessary to clearly communicate your desire to the Gods, to the æther and to the Spirits you may be interacting with in any spell process.

One thing I have noticed when I’m roleplaying is that the characters become more and more real as I play them.  They may start out as a nebulous collection of stats, but the more I play them, the more real they become to me.  They take on a life of their own and I start learning about the character from the character themselves.

I have a theory about that which is supported by nothing but Unverified Personal Gnosis.  When you hold something as real in your mind for long periods of time, it starts becoming real.  Roleplaying and playing a character is an investment of HUGE amounts of your belief and your personal energy into that character.  Most players almost obsess about the background and life story about their character, some going so far as to draw pictures of them.  Because of that massive investment of time, the character does become a real living being in another universe.  All the things that occur to that character during the flow of the game is what happens to that person.  Because of that, many GMs are very careful with characters and killing one in the course of the game is a big deal.  But it is also interesting that occasionally, the character will tell the player what it is doing.

It’s a phenomenon that many authors report happen as they are writing their books.  They create characters and write about them.  They also spend time talking and thinking about that character, just like when gamers roleplay.  They write plots, and they spend time developing the world that the character will interact in.  ALL of the authors I have talked to and read interview from have stated that occasionally at some point they will try to make something happen to the character, but that the character itself will change the author’s mind and tell the author that it won’t do that, but that it will do something else.  It’s pretty freaky when that happens.  I’ve had it happen occasionally when I write fictional works.

I associate this with the character being real in that other universe, and telling the player that it has desires and wants itself.  Therefore the personality and mind of the character is shining through and due to the connection that the player has with the character, they can “hear” that character.  (Incidentally, and in no way related to this article, I find that this is one of the greatest powers we humans have, the power to create with our thoughts and desires.  In effect, the character and the world that character is in has been created by the mind of the game master and player.)

I started thinking about this not too long ago (which is how I got the idea for this article), and I realized that if we can roleplay situations into our character’s lives, then the best thing we can also do is to take situations in our life and use the roleplay environment as a vehicle to bring change into our lives, but roleplaying the situation to successful conclusion in the game.

Example:  For my own spiritual development, I have decided that I need to learn to speak to astral entities on a regular basis.  I may determine the best way to do so is to contact those entities through the roleplay game and learn about them THERE, in a safer environment to begin with.  Creating a character that is very much like I want to be in reality and then putting that character into situations helps me figure out how to get through those situations as well as magickally giving me more impetus to correct them here.  It is a third person spell in a very real sense, which I see as the ultimate in sympathetic magick.

Then I had a startling idea.  Why make a fictional character?  Why not simply use myself as the character in the here and now?  Take myself and write the roleplay as though I was playing a character who had the exact abilities and fears, life story and world environment as I do?  Then write the situation and all the factors leading up to it and roleplay out the solution I want to happen in that game?  That should make it a heck of a spell to acquire that result I want.

So I’m starting an experiment, I have started a roleplaying game called “My Life”.  In it any situations I come up against that I need help with will be roleplayed out as though I am a character that I’m playing in a game.

There are several friends I have who are doing similar things, mostly by committing to changes in their lives and doing positive reinforcement and affirmations.  That’s powerful magick.  I’ve seen it work miracles in the past.  This experiment is the same basic thing, just slightly sideways.  Instead of putting my will out there as a spell, I put the same will I would use in a roleplaying game into the character, make changes in his life, and thus the change should carry over into my life.

Magick should be like this.  It should be about pushing a desire you have into an event or a series of events in which you gain something, be it a resolution or a physical thing. Most spells give you a formula to follow to do this, roleplaying it out does the same thing, simply in a different format.

Try it for a few months and see if there is a change in your life.  I’m going to hazard a guess that there will be.