Sabbats and Sabbaths

July Full Moon: Buck Moon

Posted on July 4, 2020 by David Taliesin

buckfullmoon

Native Americans call July 5th’s (after midnight on July 4th) full moon the Buck Moon because in North America bucks (male deers) are beginning to sprout their antlers. Symbolically this ties in with the first harvest theme of Lughnasadh which we will celebrate in a few weeks on August 1st. A good reflection question to ask ourselves during this month’s full moon is “What do we want to harvest in our lives? What do we want to manifest in our world?”

These days there is a lot to be fearful about and we can choose to give into that fear and manifest anxiety and worry. OR we can draw our strength from nature and the Divine and harvest a new crop of love, compassion, reconciliation, hope, etc. May we use tomorrow tonight’s full moon to ground and center ourselves so we will remain strong in these trying times. Blessed be!

Posted in Esbats | Tagged buck moon, Full Moon, july | Leave a comment

Wicca For Beginners: Book Review

Posted on June 29, 2020 by David Taliesin

It’s a brave thing to write a “Wicca 101” book, because there are so many of them out there. My introduction to Wicca came through a group led by two mountain witches whose wisdom and friendship I treasure to this day. They pointed me in the direction of Scott Cunningham’s “Wicca For the Solitary Practitioner” which I consider to be one of the definitive books of the American expression of Wicca. However, it was written in 1989 so there is definitely room for new authors to expand upon this ever-evolving tradition.

Enter Lisa Chamberlain’s Wicca For Beginners: A Guide to Wiccan Beliefs, Rituals, Magic and Witchcraft from Sterling Ethos. I’m happy to report that there is so much about this book to like. First of all, Lisa’s writing style is clear and concise. She is able to tackle numerous subjects without making this book the size of a Stephen King novel.
It’s a quick read but don’t let that fool you. There is a lot of wisdom and food for thought in these pages.

The thing I appreciate most about her book is it’s flexibility. Like Cunningham before her, she lets the reader know there are many ways to practice Wicca. This is not a definitive text, but rather, a guideline for those just beginning to study the Craft. I have always found this to be one of the strengths of Wicca. It is what you make of it. I’m an eclectic practitioner myself and Chamberlain encourages the reader over and over again to experiment and find those practices, tools, and rituals that feel authentic to the person using them. Well done!

The book itself is beautifully illustrated and impeccably organized into four main sections:

What is Wicca contains a detailed history of the origins of Wicca that I thought was more extensive than most introductory books. It also explores some of Wicca’s core elements such as the Deities, the Wheel of the Year, Sabbats, and Esbats.

Wiccan Ritual contains all the basic information you would expect in such a book, including casting a circle, ritual tools, etc. Chamberlain’s strength in this section is that it’s loaded with ideas and options for the reader to consider.

Wiccan Magic helps the reader to understand the difference between practical magic and ritual magic. I was also pleased to see a few words on the connection between science and magic where science is beginning to catch up with what we witches already know from personal experience. It also includes basic information and charts on candles, herbs, crystals, etc.

Advice for Aspiring Wiccans & Witches wraps things up with advice on a few topics not yet covered in the book. It includes this parting word of wisdom, “As you read and study further, and as you meet and interact with fellow practitioners, you might find that some people’s views vary wildly from those presented here. Nonetheless, the goal of this guide has been to provide a general orientation to Wiccan beliefs and practices from an unbiased perspective.” There is a lot of truth in this quote and as you read my blog you will find information that is sometimes different from what Chamberlain presents in her book. However, Wicca For Beginners is a good place to start if you’re new to Wicca and it’s core beliefs and practices. Well done!

Posted in Magic, Spirituality, Wheel of the Year, Wiccan Rede | Tagged introduction, Lisa Chamberlain, Wicca, Wicca For Beginners | Leave a comment

Strawberry Runners: We Are All Connected

Posted on June 8, 2020 by David Taliesin

This past full moon, Byron Ballard, led a powerful ritual that was streamed live on Mother Grove Goddess Temple’s Facebook page. (You can still view it on their page so check it out!) The main focal point in her guided imagery exercise was to examine closely the strawberry plant and how they grow.

Did you know that cultivated strawberries send out runners as a means of propagating themselves? These runners are called “stolons,” from the Latin word “stolo” meaning a shoot, branch, or twig springing from the root. A cloned plant is grown at the end of the stolon and then the new plant puts its own roots into the soil, while remaining connected to the mother plant.

This is a beautiful way for us to visualize what community looks like! In these days where we are battling both a virus and systemic racism, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, each of us can send a “runner” out to someone who needs our support. Take time this week to make a mental inventory of your gifts and abilities, your responsibilities and time constraints. Then, with the help of the Divines, discern a path forward. Where can you do the most good with what you’ve been given? How can you make a difference and advance the cause of justice and dignity for all people?

The Tower is falling and all the evil and corruption that exists in our world economic and social systems has been laid bare of all of us to see. The only question remains is “What are we, personally, going to do about it?” Blessings to all of you in these difficult times. We can change the world for the better! I know we can!

Posted in Magic, Spirituality | Tagged community, coronavirus, racism, runners, stolon, strawberry | Leave a comment

Witches to Action on the Supermoon

Posted on June 2, 2020 by David Taliesin

What more needs to be said? No matter what kind of energy/prayer/magic work is a part of your spiritual practice, let’s get to it! Blessed Be!

Posted in Magic | Tagged Full Moon, June, Magic | Leave a comment

Beltane: Bonfire of the Soul

Posted on April 28, 2020 by David Taliesin

So, it’s almost Beltane. And in these days of “sheltering in place” how does one celebrate this festive holiday with your friends? Well, you don’t. (Unless you maintain an appropriate social distance of at least six feet and that seems to defeat the purpose, doesn’t it?

However, this doesn’t mean that Beltane is lost. In fact, it can still be a powerful, transformative spiritual observance as solo practitioners. Thankfully, I have a fire pit in my backyard so there will definitely be fire! If you’re not that fortunate, light up a mess of candles to embody the spirit of the thing!

The time for feeling sad, sorry and depressed is over! Many of us have been sequestered for 6 weeks now and it’s time for us to use the Beltane fire to purify and empower ourselves. What injustices are you angry about as the coronavirus strips bare the failed systems and policies of our nation? We may be “all in this together” but some of us are in it more than others. May the flames of Beltane ignite our passion for justice and the will to fight for it in any way we can.

What light can you personally bring into the darkness we are experiencing? Everyone has a circle of influence. Every knows someone who could use a word of encouragement, a bag of groceries, prayers for healing, or magical intentions for protection. Let’s get off our spiritual butts and do the work that needs to be done.

I’ve heard it said that we are made for times such as these. I wish it weren’t the case, but these are the cards we have been dealt. May Beltane be a night of transformation and strengthen our resolve to make this messed up world a better place. So mote it be!

Posted in Beltane, Magic, Spirituality | Leave a comment

Doing “Nothing” During a Pandemic

Posted on April 17, 2020 by David Taliesin

“Sometimes the most powerful thing a witch can do is….nothing. Not try to seize control. Not insist on leading. But, rather, listen, follow, allow. It’s what my aunt Curtis called Making Allowances for the Universe. ‘Witchcraft is the most natural thing in the world,’ mother said on one of many afternoons when she pained and I watched and listened. ‘And I mean that quite literally. To be a witch is to possess a keen and unique sensitivity to the natural world. Not merely the top layer that everyone can see and understand, but those layers beneath where the machinery that drives the universe resides.'”–Augusten Burroughs, Toil and Trouble

If you’ve not read this book, put it on your list. Augusten Burrough’s, a mainstream author, pulls back the curtain and is quite candid about his experience as a natural witch. He definitely has the gift of what we in the Appalachian mountains call “second sight.” He also speaks freely about how we manifest our intentions by plugging into the powers of the natural world.

This particular quote resonated with me because, in the midst of sheltering in place, my favorite activity is to take my dog out for a long walk every morning. I’m fortunate enough to live nearby some urban forest that has a stream running through it. As he sniffs and peas on nearly everything in sight, I breathe deeply and let nature absorb all the worries and fears I’ve been carrying every day this past month. I let it flow though the soles of my feet and into the vibrant earth beneath me. I then begin looking on an energetic level, all the wonderful flowers and vegetation that is coming to life all around me this spring.

Sure, I love candle magic and incense and all the herbs and stones I work with to help me focus my intentions and send them out in the Universe. But this simple practice of breathing with nature is the most powerful part of my spiritual path these days. And when I take the time to listen very carefully to what nature is telling me, I always hear the following message, “You are not alone. We are here for you. We believe in you. Do the work you’re called to do and all will be well. You were made for times such as these.”

What has your spiritual practice been like during this pandemic? If you’re feeling a bit lost or disconnected from the world around you, perhaps the best thing you can do for yourself is take a walk out and nature and, as Augusten Burroughs says, do nothing. Blessed be!

Posted in Creation Spirituality, Magic, Meditation, Spirituality | Tagged Augusten Burroughs, Magic, nature, Witch | Leave a comment

April Full Moon: Pink Moon/Beaver Moon

Posted on April 6, 2020 by David Taliesin

pinkmoon According to the Farmer’s Almanac, the name of April’s full moon, which occurs on the 7th, “came from the herb moss pink, or wild ground phlox, which is one of the earliest widespread flowers of the spring. As a way of utilizing the power of this full moon, perhaps you can use it as a time to reflect on the question: “In the midst of a global pandemic where most of what we see in the media is bad news, what positive experiences and opportunities do I wish to blossom in my life? What can I do to nurture them so they continue to grow?” It is also a great time to do magical and energy work toward new projects we are just beginning to undertake.

beavermoon Another name for the April full moon is the Beaver Moon. During this time of year beavers are busy constructing dams to provide shelter and places to fish. Therefore April’s full moon is a good time to contemplate the spiritual energy the Beaver brings into our lives. According to Jamie Sams and David Carson’s Medicine Cards, the Beaver tells us “it may be time to put your ideas into action or to complete some project that has been neglected. The Beaver can also be asking you to settle differences with fellow workers or friends. Beaver tells you to look for alternative solutions to life’s challenges and to protect the creations which you put your love and energy into.” Sounds like a good plan to me!

Happy full moon!

Posted in Esbats | Tagged April, beaver moon, Full Moon, pink moon | 3 Comments

Taking Care of Ourselves in the Midst of a Pandemic

Posted on April 3, 2020 by David Taliesin

“Dutchman’s Breeches” on a recent walk.

Sorry this blog has been quiet since COVID-19 descended upon us. I’ve been working crazy amounts of hours trying to figure out how to support the faith community I serve during this pandemic. I’ve learned new technologies such as Zoom and iMovie. I’ve checked in with my seniors to see if they have everything they need. I’ve helped to coordinate resources in my local community and online. It’s been hectic, emotional and chaotic. I suspect you’re feeling the same way, too!

So, how do we keep ourselves sane and healthy during this difficult time? I certainly don’t have all the answers but this is what is working for me:

Make sure you take a walk out in nature each day. Breathe deeply and try to connect with the energy of the earth. Take joy in the small things such as spring flowers in bloom or the exuberant conversation of crows. And, yes, keep that six foot barrier between you and others while your walking!
Find ways to keep your connections to others. I’ve called friends I haven’t talked to in a very long time. I’ve set up Zoom get-togethers with my kids and friends alike. I’ve chatted with my next door neighbor from a safe distance. Whatever it takes, you need to remind yourself and others that you are not alone in this pandemic.
Freshen up your home altar. Make sure your connection to the Divine and other spirit allies is strong. Today, I took about an hour to deep clean the room where my altar is located. I played one of my favorite Pagan folks bands, Faun, and danced to their joyous music. I dusted everything on my altar and arranged things in a way that felt powerful and meaningful to me. I lit candles and burned incense. Then I asked the Ancestors, Elemental Spirits and other allies to guide and protect me and those I love during this challenging time in the life of our planet.
Limit your time watching the news. Yes, we all need to be informed but I find that if I constantly listen to the 24-hour news cycle, it leave me feeling very depressed. Take “technology Sabbaths” where you unplug for a while. It will do your heart a world of good.

So, that’s what’s working for me. Please feel free to comment and share what it working for you. I thank you for your support and interest in what I’ve written over the years. I wish you all health and protection and safety! Blessed be!

Posted in Spirituality | Tagged coronavirus, covid-19, self care, Spirituality | Leave a comment

Coronavirus: Building Strength, Protection & Community Ritual

Posted on March 8, 2020 by David Taliesin

Here is the ritual from tonight’s Welcoming Circle:

STRENGTH, PROTECTION AND COMMUNITY RITUAL

PROTECTION OIL (David Taliesin)
1/4 cup olive oil
4 drops rosemary
3 drops frankincense

May the powers of Earth, Air, Fire, and Water
Protect you and give you strength in the days to come.

CASTING THE CIRCLE (David Taliesin)

As we approach the celebration of the Spring Equinox,
we are reminded that this day
Is the perfect balance between light and darkness.

We gather tonight to seek balance;
to find calm in the midst of fear,
truth in the midst of rumor,
community in the midst of isolationism.

We seek the wisdom of the Divine Presence,
Elemental Powers, and Ancestors
to guide us through this challenging time
in the life of our planet.

Take a crystal athame or wand and circle the group, saying the following…

May Divine Light surround us,
Divine Love enfold us,
Divine Power protect us,
Divine Presence watch over us.
Wherever we are, the Divine is with us. All is well.

CALLING THE QUARTERS (David Taliesin)

Hail Guardians and Ancestors of the East, Powers of Air,
blow away the staleness of winter;
whisper into our ears the wisdom we need to know
to navigate this challenging time
in the life our our planet. Hail and welcome!

Hail Guardians and Ancestors of the South, Powers of Fire,
warm our soil and coax the seeds to germinate;
clear our minds from confusion and misinformation
As we navigate this challenging time
in the life of our planet. Hail and welcome!

Hail Guardians and Ancestors of the West, Powers of Water,
moisten the ground so that new life might appear;
soothe our troubled spirits with your peace
As we navigate this challenging time
in the life of our planet. Hail and welcome!

Hail Guardians and Ancestors of the North, Powers of Earth,
keep us rooted like budding trees and flowers;
strengthen our bodies and keep us healthy
As we navigate this challenging time
in the life of our planet. Hail and welcome!

Great Mystery, who binds together
every quark and atom in the universe,
we humbly ask you to be with us tonight.

Help us to embody a spirit of calm in the midst of chaos.
Give us the courage to strengthen our ties with others
instead of focusing solely on ourselves.
Hail and welcome!

WEAVING RITUAL

Everyone in the room should have three strands of yarn.

The WHITE string is symbolic of wisdom and clarity. May it remind us to seek truth above all else. Don’t listen to the rumor mill on social media regarding the coronavirus. Instead, let’s educate ourselves and act in ways that are prudent rather than impulsive. We are made for times like these. Thanks to the internet we have more information at our disposal than any generation who has gone before us. May we use this information wisely and seek to be a voice of reason and calm in the midst of rumor and panic. So mote it be!

The RED string is symbolic of courage. We can be courageous because our Spirit Guides go with us. The voices of our Ancestors join them in calling us to be helpers and leaders in the midst of crisis. Listen to them. They are rooting for us to remain strong and continue to be a force for good in our community. May we encourage others who cannot see past their fear. May we help the most vulnerable among us in any way we can. So mote it be!

The BLACK string is symbolic of our spiritual practice. We, as magical people, have tools at our disposal that others don’t have. Use those tools wisely and often. Meditate until you see the world around you with absolutely clarity. Ground to remind you of our connection with something that is much bigger than yourself. Shield to keep any unwanted influences or energies at bay. Set intentions and send energy to the people and places who need it the most. So mote it be!

What I would like us to do is tie a knot to bind these three stings together. Then, in silence, weave them together so that they become inseparable from one another. As we do this, think about the resources and people you need to weave together during this time of crisis. What wisdom do you need to help you to move into the future with confidence? What courage do you need to summon to counteract the fear and panic which surround us? What magic do you need to practice regularly that will do the best and brightest good for the community and for the sake of the planet? We are made for times like these! Ponder these questions as you weave together these three strings. When you’re finished, tie the other ends together so that they cannot be separated. (Silence.)

Now that we are finished, hold this braided cord in your hands. Empower it with the energy of the earth and the Divine (We repeatedly chanted “wisdom, courage, magic” with increasing intensity). Place it on your home altar or any other visible place. May it remind you of your purpose and empower your intentions in the weeks to come. So mote it be!

CLOSING THE CIRCLE (David Taliesin)

Great Mystery, Divine Presence,
who is known to us by many names,
we thank you for your presence in our circle tonight.
We go forth from this place unafraid
because we know that you journey with us always.
Blessed be!

Guardians and Ancestors of the North, Powers of Earth,
we thank you for your presence in our circle tonight.
Keep our bodies healthy
as we navigate this challenging time
in the life of our planet.
Stay if you will. Go if you must.
We bid you farewell!

Guardians and Ancestors of the West, Powers of Water,
we thank you for your presence in our circle tonight.
Keep our spirits calm and peaceful
as we navigate this challenging time
in the life of our planet.
Stay if you will. Go if you must.
We bid you farewell!

Guardians and Ancestors of the South, Powers of Fire,
we thank you for your presence in our circle tonight.
Keep our minds sharp and alert
As we navigate this challenging time
in the life of our planet.
Stay if you will. Go if you must.
We bid you farewell.

Guardians and Ancestors of the East, Powers of Air,
we thank you for your presence in our circle tonight.
Keep our ears attuned to your wisdom
as we navigate this challenging time
in the life our our planet.
Stay of you will. Go if you must.
We bid you farewell!

And now, the circle is open but never unbroken
Because it is a circle woven in love.
Whatever energy is left in this space
We return to the earth with a spirit of gratitude.
Merry meet, merry part, and merry meet again.

Posted in Magic | Tagged community, coronavirus, courage, ritual, wisdom | Leave a comment

DIY Hand Sanitizer

Posted on March 6, 2020 by David Taliesin

Can’t find any hand sanitizer in your area? This will do the trick!

Home Made Hand Sanitizer

2/3 cup isopropyl alcohol 91% (rubbing alcohol)
1/3 cup aloe vera gel
8-10 drops of essential oil

In a mixing bowl, stir Isopropyl alcohol and aloe vera gel together until well blended.

Add 8-10 drops of scented essential oil (optional, but nice!). Stir to incorporate.

Pour the homemade hand sanitizer into an empty container and seal. Write “hand sanitizer” on a piece of masking tape and affix to the bottle.

The CDC recommends using hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content. This recipe makes a sanitizer that slightly exceeds that alcohol content at 60.66%, so follow the proportions exactly. If you want a sanitizer with a higher alcohol percentage, decrease the amount of aloe vera to 1/4 cup.

Suggestions of essential oils: rosemary with orange or lemon; lavender with or without frankincense; tea tree with just a drop of mint.

Posted in Herbology | Tagged DIY, essential oil, hand sanitizer, home made | Leave a comment