#withcery

Our Papaya tree is producing gorgeous B I G fruit so I thought i’d share some of my Papaya knowledge and personal uses with you.

let’s begin with a little history, shall we?

you are likely already aware that cats were considered sacred in ancient Egypt. called ‘miu’, meaning ‘the one who meows’, they were praised for their ability to kill vermin and ward off snakes. they were also often thought to be incarnations of goddesses. for this reason, cats were worshipped, mummified after death, and the penalty for killing a cat was execution. furthermore, armies were even sent to other countries in order to retrieve cats, just to show how important they truly were.

so why are they so heavily associated with witchcraft?

stories of cats soon spread from Egypt to Greece. from there, they reached the rest of Europe as well as Asia. religious folk talked of cats being sent by the devil to assist witches in their spells and rituals. the reason the stereotype of the witch’s black cat is more common is because a black cat was thought to be the feline incarnation of Satan himself. pretty neat, right? additionally, cats are traditionally believed to hold psychic abilities, divination being a huge part of many witches’ craft.

my personal experience with kitties

i have two cats: Ollie, a mischievous lil’ tuxedo cat who makes the cutest squeaks, and Jemima, a tortoiseshell cat who turned three years old just yesterday, and dribbles whenever she purrs. both seem to be incredibly drawn to my magick. (Jemima always sits on the edge of the tub whilst I’m performing a bath ritual, and whenever I’m writing in my grimoire Ollie literally SITS ON IT SO I CAN’T WRITE).

still don’t think they’re witchy enough?

then say hello to iconic witch, Minverva McGonogall.

so let’s say you’re STILL not convinced, even after that majestic gif...

whether you agree or disagree that a feline companion will assist you in your craft, they’re still absolutely adorable either way!

happy international cat day!

  I’ve had this blog for about 2 years now, and I’ve noticed that Tumblr has a large population of beginner and often ‘closeted’ witches. Of course, it’s a seemingly perfect place for a sprouting witch to turn to, with an interactive community and boundless fountains of information. I’ve been asked just about every question in the book, and I do my best to answer them. However, there was one question that persisted in my inbox, that I frequently ignored due to the mere vastness of the topic. So, finally, here is my panacea for the swarm of newbie asks.

*This does not mean you cannot ask me questions about these topics! If you feel something wasn’t covered or might be different to your situation, feel free to ask. However, I will probably link you to this if your question is directly addressed.*

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I’m a witch?

The title of a witch is chosen, not born. While certain signs may push you towards a certain diety or spiritual path, the ultimate choice to begin practicing witchcraft is a choice and often happens over time and consideration rather than an all at once 'initiation.’

Do I have to be Wiccan to practice witchcraft?

Nope! Wicca, or any other religion for that matter, does not own the practice of witchcraft. It is not a closed practice (though certain aspects can be, and are therefor not witchcraft, such as smudging) meaning anyone can practice.

What is paganism?

Paganism, or pagan religions, are religions that are not majorly practiced. It is sometimes used by Christians to identify non-Christians. Paganism is not one religion, but rather an umbrella term for many;.

What are the basic things I need to do a spell?

While Tumblr likes to glamourize spells and the craft with fancy shots of big geodes and perfectly angled teacups, all you really need is intention and your hands. Some easily obtainable things that might help you start are jars, herbs that double as cooking ingredients, candles, notebooks, twigs that double as wands, and boxes. Moon water is a pretty easy first thing to make, and can spice up spells that call for water. In reality, the most important part of a spell is your intention.

Are curses bad?

With the growth of Wicca has come the growth of the term 'white magic,’ and the idea that karma will send your ass to witch hell if you so much as utter poor fortune upon a wrongdoer, let alone use your craft against them. The reality is, no witch should be shamed for their personal choice is magic. Also, for beginners, the terms 'white/black’ magic are associated with racial stereotypes. Try substituting it for negative/positive energy.

How do you start witchcraft?

Just…start. Just go for it. Collect a rock you like on the street, make a potion, read a book about witches. Little things that turn into action. My biggest tip is to start by dedicating a journal to your craft, which will later turn into your Grimoire of sorts, and can help you keep track of your beliefs and how you’ve grown spiritually.

How do you start being Wiccan?

It is popular to start Wicca with an initiation ritual, though not required. Because Wicca is a religion, it’s usually typical to at least do some sort of spell acknowledging and presenting yourself to the deities.

Is Hekate the Wiccan goddess?

Nope. No no! Very common mistake. Hekate isn’t even technically a tri or multiple layered goddess! Hekate also does not aline with Wicca’s core values.

What religion is witchcraft associated with?

None! Witchcraft is an accessory to religions, and belongs to none impartcular.

Top 10 Tips For Beginners

1) There is no singular right or wrong way. Trying to mimic somebody else’s path will only result in dead ends and frustration. Don’t be afraid to try something you’ve never seen done.

2) Don’t force yourself to align with a religion or patron deity. While it may feel comforting to have a god or goddess there for you, if you aren’t prepared to maintain a relationship with one or you don’t really have any interest in them, remember that it’s okay to go solo.

3) Use what you have available. There is no need to spend tens or twenties of dollars on fancy, decorative things. Jars are available for cheap at the dollarstore, and tealight candles are great for starting out.

4) Don’t feel the need to justify your practice with “I only do the positive kind of magic” or “it’s not like…Satanism or anything…” Be confident in your craft. Come out of the 'broom closet’ when you’re ready.

5) Don’t feel like you have to choose to be a 'kind of witch.’ Hardly anyone I know only practices a single 'type’ of magic.

6) Give yourself space to grow. Tumblr makes everything seem awfully black and white, and tiny mistakes can be blown up into death threats. Educate yourself to the best of your ability, acknowledge when you messup, and learn from everything.

7) Spend time in nature! Go hiking, or if you’re a city witch, just take a stroll down the street. Humans are nature. Get outside, is all that matters. Nature is everywhere.

8) Starting a journal to track your beliefs, progress, interests, and attempted spells will make things so much simpler! Plus, it’s fun to look back on when you become more experienced and see how much you’ve changed. The book doesn’t have to be anything fancy. My first was an old composition book.

9) Ask questions. Ask stupid questions. Ask questions you think might be offensive. Bother witches with questions over and over until you get a clear answer.

10) Find magic in the little things, not just grand spells and big holidays or full moons. Find magic in getting dressed, or cleaning, or even driving.

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This is still undergoing some editing and adding to, but I hope it helps someone :)

Much love!

@nature-is-punk

Woot! New couple and new ocs, heck yeah!

So Edward is basically a witch and Sean is my lighting boy. I sorta have a story and backound for them but its not fully developed.

me: LET'S CURSE THEM TO SUFFER LIKE THEY MADE ME SUFFER