Wicca Read Online Free PDF Page B

electricity, but I can plug my toaster into a wall socket and burn my whole wheat bread. Similarly, in magic we “plug into” energies that stretch, crisscross, and zip around and through us.
    There are many ways to practice magic. Wiccans generally choose simple, natural forms, though some enjoy heavy ceremony, borrowing from the classical grimoires such as The Key of Solomon (see bibliography). Usually, however, practicing magic involves herbs, crystals, and rocks; the use of symbols and color; magical gestures, music, voice, dance, and trance; astral projection, meditation, concentration, and visualization.
    There are literally thousands of magical systems, even in Wicca. For instance, numerous magical ways exist to use crystals, or herbs, or symbols, and by combining them more systems are created.
    Many, many books have been published outlining magical systems, and some of these are listed in the bibliography. In my books I’ve discussed the powers of the elements, crystals, and herbs. In this work, the subject of rune magic is explored as an example of a self-contained magical system with hints at combining it with others.
    Such systems aren’t necessary to the successful practice of magic. Performing magical rituals simply by manipulating tools such as herbs and crystals will be ineffective, for the true power of magic lies within ourselves—the gift of deity.
    So no matter the magical system, personal power must be infused with the need and then released. In Wiccan magic, personal power is recognized as our direct link with the Goddess and God. Magic, therefore, is a religious act in which Wiccans unite with their deities to better themselves and their world.
    This is important—magic is a positive practice. Wiccans don’t perform destructive, manipulative, or exploitive magic. Because they recognize that the power at work in magic is, ultimately, derived from the Goddess and God, negative workings are absolutely taboo. “Evil” magic is an insult to themselves, to the human race, to Earth, the Goddess and God, and the universe itself. The repercussions can be imagined. The energies of magic are those of life itself.
    Anyone can practice magic—within a religious context or not. If certain words or gestures pop into your mind while performing a spell, and they seem right, by all means use them. If you can’t find a ritual to your liking or that fits your needs, create one. You needn’t write fancy poetry or choreography for thirty singing incense bearers and thirteen singing priestesses.
    If nothing else, light a candle, settle down before it, and concentrate on your magical need. Trust yourself.
    If you truly desire to know the nature of magic, practice it! Many are afraid of magic. They’ve been taught (by nonpractitioners) that it’s dangerous. Don’t be scared. Crossing the street is dangerous too. But if you do it properly, you’re fine.
    Of course, the only way you’ll find this out is to cross that street. If your magic is infused with love, you’ll be in no danger whatsoever.
    Call upon the Goddess and God to protect you and teach you the secrets of magic. Ask stones and plants to reveal their powers—and listen. Read as much as you can, discarding negative or disturbing information.
    Learn by doing, and the Goddess and God will bless you with all that you truly need.

4
Tools
    IN COMMON WITH most religions, certain objects are used in Wicca for ritual purposes. These tools invoke the deities, banish negativity, and direct energy through our touch and intention.
    Some of the tools of the Witch (the broom, cauldron, and magic wand) have gained firm places in contemporary folklore and myth. Through the popularization of folktales and the work of Disney studios, millions know that cauldrons are used to brew up potions and that wands transform the drab into the beautiful.Most folks, however, don’t know the powerful magic behind such tools and their inner symbolism within Wicca.
    To practice