Witchcraft As a Conversation, Not a Command
On co-creating instead of controlling
Hollywood really did a number on expectations of working magic. Showing witches splitting open the skies with storms, conjuring fire from their palms, etc. It's easy to enter into witchcraft with this assumption that you are going to be able to control everything with a snap of your fingers.
Now, I know some pretty powerful witches with an uncanny talent for manifesting. So some degree might be achievable. But, for most of us, that's just now how it works (and it doesn't make our magic any less powerful or any less valid).
I can only ever speak on my own magic. For me, it often feels quieter, kinder. For me, magic isn't a command: it's a conversation.
In my early days of practice, I definitely lit a bunch of candles, added some herbs, stamped my foot and shouted at the universe to fix it. I treated magic like it was there to do my bidding, not realizing the truth: Magic has been here much longer than I have. I am a guest in her house.
Thankfully, maturity and practice bring wisdom. I learned lessons, including how to approach. I learned that it was just like sitting on my porch with an old friend- coffee in hand, heart soft, words honeyed. I learned to say, "Alright. I'm here. Let's talk."
To me, magic is in the listening. I don't demand herbs do things for me; I thank them for growing and ask for their wisdom. I don't treat my house spirits like servants; I pour them water and coffee, as I would any other guest.
My magic is a soft power. It doesn't have to raise its voice or show off. It's not the power of dominance, but the power of co-existing. Spellwork is less do as I say and more walk with me for a while.
And so, I will close this with a few things I've learned over the decades of doing this.
Let your spells breathe. Do your part with the words and the components; you are channeling magic, after all. But then, step back. Magic is like like bread dough. You have to let it rise without interfering.
Work with what's already happening. Notice your mood, the weather, the energy. Instead of trying to force your will, ask how you can join what's going on.
Speak to your magic like an old friend. Every tool I use, the coffee I brew, the herbs I scatter in spellwork. I soften myself a bit, whisper my gratitude, and ask for their assistance, wisdom, guidance. I feel like it's made all the difference in the world.
Treat your rest as part of the spell. You don't have to push yourself to make things work. Soemtimes the most powerful thing you can do is to lay down your burden and let the universe breathe with you.
