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2/26/04
It seems as thought in the last two years or so, I have been torn between keeping my christian faith and adopting the ways of a wicca.  One time something inside me will tell me that I should keep my faith and not to even think of changing, and then something else inside me will tell me that I need a change and that everything would be okay.  How can I be sure of which way to go?  Sincerely, confused

Dear Confused:
     Many people have these conflicts. I think what you have to do is study both religions as far as possible, with an open mind, until one clicks with you, and that you know it is right for you. Never force this issue, you have to be certain.
     Bright blessings:
          Merlin.

Dear Jamie:
First you have to understand that the word pagan does encompass a great many unconventional beliefs. I have never regarded Satanists as Pagans, but in truth, under the definition of the word I suppose they are. Satanism has a long and varied, and interrupted history. It first came about with the absorption of Mithraism that stated that if there is an all good God then there has to be an all evil God to counterbalance. There is no mention for example in the Old Testament of the Devil, or Satan. Remember that Christianity in it's conquering history adopted much from many other religions to appease the people it was endeavoring to convert. Around the twelve century when Christianity had a stranglehold on the population, imposing very harsh and strict rules, there was a rebellion of sorts leading to a type of reverse Christianity. Modern day Satanism under the leadership of Anton LeVey, and now headed by his daughter, is a valid religion, that turns Christianity upside down. However they may work on what is called the darkside, but do no evil. Only a very few Pagans attempt evil magical workings, and they are outcasts.
Bright blessings:
Merlin.

Dear Thais:
No, I have never, ever thought that way. You see to really believe in something you have to know it is right from the very start. You have to feel it's strength immediately. For me there can be no other religious path than the one I am on, for it is comfortable, and in my heart of hearts, deep down, I know it is right for me. This is not to say that I have not rationalized this, but not from your prospective. You are trying to prove to yourself that is right for you, and that magic works. I on the other hand have approached it from the other side and tried to prove that it does not. To truly believe in something it has to fit well, sit well with you, and you have to know instinctively that it is you.
Bright blessings:
Merlin.

Dear Ashlie:
This is the most frequently asked question and yet it should never be asked in the first place. I am not meaning to personally pick on you, but everyone who is a Pagan/Witch has been in your situation. If you do an Internet search under the word Witch you will find 55201 pages to sort through. I, in all seriousness would start with www.witchvox.com and see where that leads you. We really do believe that one has to make the effort oneself, and then doors will be open to you. Believe me, it happens that way. After all you found this site didn't you? Good luck.
Bright blessings:
Merlin.

Dear Megan:
     There are people who have greater propensities to Witchcraft than others, and sometimes this is hereditary. You need to develop these "feelings" through meditation and learn some sort of divination, such as Tarot. This does not make you a Witch, but through your explorations, that path may open up to you.
     Bright blessings:
          Merlin.

Dear Jamie:
     First, let me say, that your friend is correct. Paganism is an umbrella word that covers a multitude of beliefs, and Wicca is a part of Paganism. Yes, even within Wicca there are many branches as there is in Christianity. All you have to do is read, study, and contact as many people as possible, until you find the right path for you. Begin by talking to your friend and his friends as well. Attend any events that you are able. Do not worry too much as many have been in the same place as you are now.
     Bright blessings:
          Merlin.

Dear Una Avalynne Springwater.
     I can easily understand your predicament, but at least everyone in your household respects the others beliefs. Many Wiccans prefer an outside secret shrine, but I suspect this may not be available to you. Either you continue as you are and are clever at clearing the atmosphere before you start any workings, or, I am sorry to say, you will have to move so that you do have at least a room for yourself.
     Bright blessings:
          Merlin.

Dear Joef:
     The thing to do is nothing, and not to worry. If your son has not shown any interest then let things be as they are. He is still quite young, and may decide on a religious path later. I would also add, that the "power" will often skip a generation. Just relax, and do not worry, and do not force any beliefs on your son. Let things happen as they will.
     Bright blessings:
          Merlin.

Thank you for listening!   Purplemoons

Dear Purplemoons:
     There are times when the eyes are very sensitive to color changes. There are times when you close your eyes after being in bright sunlight you will still have certain reflections inbeded in your eyes for a few minutes. There may good be medical reasons as well. If this continues I suggest that you consult your Doctor, especially if it is accompanied by giddy sensations. Apart from that I have no explanations.
     Bright blessings:
          Merlin.

Dear Friend:
     Wicca is a specific religion, whereas Paganism is an umbrella word covering a multitude of non mainstream religions. Therefore Wicca is a part of Paganism.
     Bright blessings:
          Merlin.

Thanks,
Alicia.

Dear Alicia:
     There are several things that are wrong with your Mother's dream in the real world. There is no such thing as a "witch mark," and we do not "examine" people. These are both myths of the Catholic Church adopted during the inquisition. As far as the vampire dream is concerned although I will not dispute it, I do think that there may be some coincidences incurred. I seriously doubt that there is either any connection between the dreams and the marks, however, I will add this, that in metaphysics, all things are possible. I have no explanation with the details that you have given me, perhaps meeting face to face with a true physic may resolve in some explanation, but without this type of meeting I am unable to throw any light on this interesting phenomenon.
     Bright blessings:
          Merlin.

I'll give you a little background, so that you'll have an idea where I'm coming from...

My grandmother was a medium in her younger years, until she became a Mormon.  While my mother was in the US trying to earn a living for us, my grandparents and my aunt basically raised me.  She basically opened up my interest and belief that there are things other than the physical plane, and that each human being has a potential.  She "knew" stuff that other people would not normally know -- so it was frustrating for my brother who used to cut class to drink and smoke with his buddies (if you know what I mean).

When I was about nine, she warned me not to stay in the dark with fear inside me.  Years later when I was 13, I made the major mistake of staying in the dark.  It culminated in a supernatural experience wherein I felt a "sucking sensation" on the top of my head - which led me running down the stairs and quietly sneaking at the living room pretending that nothing happened...

...and my grandmother said, "Now you know what I meant..."

Another incident was when I was in the fifth grade, and in my sophomore year in high school.  I got so angry at someone for something absolutely horrible they did to me, and I did weird rituals using the stuff I have readily available -- such as candles, photographs, and other things.  On both incidents, the people I wished ill upon got violently sick immediately after doing the rituals.  And as soon as they get well, I get sick -- much much worse and much much longer than they did.

My mother basically soul-searched all her life for the "right faith" and found herself on a pilgrimage to India and Tibet.  The resulting years of tutelage under a guru, meditation, and other Eastern practices gave her harmony as a Catholic and a New Age practicer.  She reads tarot cards and astrological charts, and she is mostly accurate with her readings.

As to me, I'm also Catholic but I've always been interested in Wicca and other stuff that the Catholic church does not condone.  I always frown every time that the priest has to bring up stuff like the Witch of Endor and similar stuff -- scaring the masses from even trying to see their potentiality.  As much as I am more open to this, part of me is still afraid -- maybe it has something to do with the "Catholic conditioning" and the rest from experiences.

I also refuse to go to my priest about this because I know what he would say about it.  All he'll do is make me feel guilty about even entertaining the idea of having Wicca be a part of my life.

Since I was little, I've been having dreams about stuff that I swear up and down would never happen due to its oddity -- only to find out months ahead that it would happen exactly as how I dreamt it.

And for some reason, people have been telling me that I have this gift of healing people.  I have a lot of friends who have back, shoulder, or other problems, and I just feel so bad that I give them a massage.  It turns out that I can pinpoint exactly the trouble spots without them having to tell me where.  The same happens even though I have just seen that person for the first time. All of them report of feeling immediately relieved, and their pain has decreased to have them function almost pain-free.

I also have a feeling that my up-and-down financial and professional situation has something to do with this turmoil between my faith in the Catholic religion and my neo-pagan beliefs.  I am also constantly afraid that if I ever try opening up, then it might backfire on me (my experience of getting violently ill whenever I get angry and used a spell against someone, or when I massage certain people and get sick from it).

So now that you know a little about me, I wanted to ask a couple of things:

(1) Do I have some sort of gift, and if I do, then what is it and how can I maximize the use of it for good;

(2) Are there Wiccans out there who also practice the Catholic faith, and how do they come to terms with the Wiccan ways and the Catholic's contradictory belief;

(3) What did I encounter that night when I stayed in the dark - a dark spirit, a demon, what?

(4) If I open myself up to embrace the Wiccan ways, what things do I have to expect -- such as changes, etc.

(5) Do "gifts" pretty much run in the family?

(6) Is there something that you could recommend to improve financial and career aspects of one's life using Wicca?  If there is, are there any repercussions or consequences for using the spell?

(7) Is there something that you could recommend when it comes to protecting myself from getting "bounce-back sickness" from some people that I give massages to?

Thanks in advance, Merlin, and may many blessing come upon you ;-D
MysticAriadne

Dear Mystic Ariadne:
     You certainly have given me a great deal of information. It is curious to me that those of the Catholic faith have more of these problems, than those of other denominations. I suspect it is because the Catholic religion still contains some of the mysteries of religion. In my opinion it is how they hold their congregations together. First you have to overcome the guilt that you feel. Try and believe in the laws of karma, and that we, and only we, are responsible for our own sins, and that we have to atone for them in our own life. We do not believe in confession and forgiveness, but in striving to do good at all times. Let me answer your questions as you have asked them:
     (1)     I believe that you do have certain gifts that are at the present wild. I would suggest that you find a Reiki teacher whereby you could use your healing talents and learn how to clear them from your body.
     (2)     You cannot be a Wiccan and a Catholic, it would be like being a Jew and a Muslim. However that should not stop you from being a healer whatever faith is right for you.
     (3)     It is difficult to explain what you experienced on that "dark night," I suspect that as you were quite young, and that you were expecting something to happen -- it did. This is not as unusual as you may think.
     (4)     If you truly "open up to Wicca" then I think the experience would bring you a great peace of mind eventually. You have to work at it, as Wicca is a minute by minute faith, and not just a few hours on a Sunday.
     (5)     Yes, these type of "gifts" are genetic, but are apt to skip a generation or so.
     (6)      I never recommend using a spell for financial gain. You have to approach this with the idea of what you truly need to live a fair and comfortable life. Do you need a ten bedroom house, probably not, but perhaps three would be nice. You have to work within the sphere of availability and grow from there. Be content with what you have, and be wise in financial matters. Never let greed take over, from practicality.
     (7)This is the kicker, many people have this problem. However it is the second part of being a natural healer, and again a Reiki Master would be able to teach you. The essence is, that you have to do something to clear the body. It can be as simple as shaking your hands and casting of sickness, perhaps a complete shower would help, or even to stand still and bathe yourself in a pure white life, feeling all blackness leave your body. Different things work for different people.
     I hope I have helped. I feel as I have taken an exam myself! Bright blessings:
          Merlin.

Dear Leslie:
     I am an old practitioner -- very old -- and I have given up the struggle. Let ME know if you find a simple spell that would help. But then, I am so old it would not matter too much! Sincerely though, it can be done with the aid of meditation, plus a good idea is tell the person you most respect most that you are quitting. It is a terrible thing to go back on your word to that person you hold in high regard. Sorry I cannot be of help in this matter. Good luck though.
     Bright blessings:
          Merlin.

Dear Capricorn:
     Wow, this is an interesting question and made me stop and think. You should in a Circle look your best, as you say we take a bath, and also wear a clean robe, and don special jewelry. Therefore I do think that a light make up is acceptable, but if you feel comfortable without any makeup go that way. The one thing you do not want to look like is a painted doll. Just look natural. Good question -- thank you.
     Bright blessings:
          Merlin.

Dear Elke:
     This is probably the most asked question, how do I start? Well, you have already started by asking questions. My advice to you not knowing where you live is to go to your nearest metaphysical bookstore and see what classes are advertised there. Even by hanging around you may meet a good contact, but be wary of this. The best book in years is: The Idiots Guide to Wicca and Witchcraft by Denise Zimmerman. It covers everything in a very simple to read and comprehensive manner. Also go to www.witchvox.com which is a like a national pagan newspaper, and has many links. It also lists many groups nationwide, but always be careful about meeting any stranger, as they interview you, you interview them.
     Bright blessings:
          Merlin.

I am afraid of hurting someone and I can't seem to control these things that
happen.  What is going on with me.  How can I control this?

Freaked Out

Dear Freaked Out:
     I wish that I knew how old you are. I suspect that you are quite young, if so these energies generally wear themselves out. It is not unknown for rage to trigger this type of happening. It certainly does not make you a Witch. I would suggest that you instal in your mind a type of brake mechanism. A very simple one would be, an orange! When you have the feeling that this phenomena is about to happen immediately think of an orange, or some such simple object. Now if you are over say twenty-five, you have two choices, one, and this is the best, is learn to control these outbursts and even turn the energy into something positive. The other is to seek professional help. This I do not recommend as you probably will be wasting your money. The thing is to realize that events such as this that manifest within the mind can be controlled. There are a few books on the subject, under physic Phenomena that may help if you can find one. However they mostly relate incidents and do not offer a cure or an explanation. If you can create these happenings then you can prevent them, or as I have already said, turn the energy that you arouse to good. Very interesting, and good luck.
     Bright blessings:
          Merlin.

Dear AB:
     I do know the type of cards you are talking about. At one time they were sold in sets of seven and called Chakra cards as each one was of a different color and design meant to represent the seven Chakras. The instructions were to stare at them for as long as possible, without blinking! It is my opinion they are very dangerous and have warned against there use many times in the past. You can do damage to your eyes that is permanent, if not, you will at the very least incur a splitting headache. Your interpretation of Creative Visualization is correct. With practice you should be able to create and hold objects and or scenes that are multi-dimensional including smell. Go easy on this, for it does take a great deal of practice. Never force yourself beyond a reasonable and comfortable point. It is something that you learn in leaps and bounds. You may go months without a breakthrough and then suddenly it happens. Good luck and be careful.
     Bright blessings:
          Merlin.

Dear Chelsea:
     The best site that I have discovered is www.witchvox.com. There is enough there to satisfy anyone. Good luck.
     Bright blessings:
          Merlin.

Dear Barbarella:
     Just because you have a natural ability to be clairvoyant does not mean that you are a Witch. You can practice Christianity if that is what you desire most. However, it is always a good idea to explore ideas and belief systems that appeal to you. Perhaps after doing some research you may decide that Paganism or Wicca is not right for you. So be it. Never go against your conscious and never deny yourself the usage of a natural gift. To start with I would suggest that you begin by logging on to www.witchvox.com. There is enough information there, as well as many good links to get you started. Again, I must reiterate, that being a Christian does not preclude you from being clairvoyant. You may wish to join a church that is very broadminded such as the Universalist Church. There you may find many others like yourself, but who are still Christians. I would stay away from the Aunt's as that is not the path for you. Stay in the light always and shun the dark. Good luck.
     Bright blessings:
          Merlin.

Dear Dante:
     I have not done an Internet search myself, but Ray Buckland used to have a correspondence course for Seax Wicca. Check his website, www.raybuckland.com. Another great source for you to look into which contains many sources is, www.witchvox.com. If you do find one. check it out thoroughly to make sure that it is right for you. Good luck.
     Bright blessings:
          Merlin.

Dear Friend:
     These inherant powers that you are lucky enough to have been given should be developed and controlled gently over a period of time. Trying to force yourself to do things, especially when in an emotional state can be disastrous. There is no down side, or evil side to this. Like all powers it is up to you to use them for either good or evil. Let them manifest at their own pace, and usually it will come to you, or you will be told, how to exercise them. Good luck.
     Bright blessings:
          Merlin.

Dear friend:
     You are obviously very advanced in your mystic studies, and it obvious to me that you lean towards Eastern philosophies. It is not a question if Wicca is compatible, but what is compatible for you. Never force a belief on yourself, but continue on your present path, exploring that which you feel is right and rejecting that which you are not comfortable with. Never compromise what you sincerely believe to be correct, but at the same time, do not become rigid in your mind and close yourself off from new ideas. Be flexible, and follow your own path of learning and practices.
     Bright blessings:
          Merlin.

 I'm curious to know if there is a way to tell if this is a ghost or a spirit guide.  If it is a spirit guide would it be my son's since he seems to see it?  Or, would it be mine since it has touched me?

I have invited it to communicate with me but I've gotten no response.  Should I continue my attempts at communication or should I leave it alone?

Thanks for your help.
Angela

Dear Angela:
     You are doing exactly the right thing. Spirits, like humans, come in all shapes and sizes, but they are usually very shy, especially the good ones. I really would suggest that you continue being friendly by talking to the Spirit, and even giving it a name. Usually the first name that comes into your head is the right one. Spirits tend to be of a playful nature and like to test the waters to see if they are welcome. Work with your son on this and talk with him about what he is "seeing" and encourage him. Warn him that this is a Mother Son secret. You do not want him to be made fun of, and also Spirits like to be private as well. You never have a block party to meet your pet Ghost. You are a blessed household.
     Bright blessings:
'          Merlin.

Dear Livinia:
     This is an interesting observation and one that each of us has to live with all our lives. We have to attend Christian weddings and funerals, and be comfortable with the rites that these passages demand The first point is, that we need to be secret and not try and covert or even inflict our views and opinions on anyone. The other point is of a much broader view. We not only believe in an omnipotent male and female but in a single creative life force (God?) of which we believe we are all part of. Taking this a step further all religions believe in "God," it is the way of reaching that deity that is different. For instance, Jesus is a way to God for many, but even this has varying degrees within the Christian community. Compare the Christian trinity of God, Jesus, and Mary, with a Pagan trinity of God, Mother Earth and Father Sun. Explore these ideas and I think that you will become more comfortable. Pray to your vision of Godhead while others pray to theirs. By the way my first teachers given name was Livinia, but she chose to be called Lavender)
`     Bright blessings:
          Merlin.

I am asking you now as a last ditch effort to find my home back. I have lost track of the others and wish to find them. Could you post this E-mail on the off chance that somone read here.

I have lost my way and only the Goddess and God can help me now.
DaDagda

POSTED AS REQUESTED. M.

Dear Chrmdgrl:
     There are several groups in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. I would suggest that you visit metaphysical bookstores, and see what notices they may have. Most Covens have open houses from time to time. Also by attending any lectures, etc., you will meet others, and that will set you on the path. You tell me you are young, be warned, that most groups will not accept anyone under the age of eighteen, without written parental permission.
     Bright blessings:
          Merlin.

When I was thinking about this question I was reading the questions you answered already and I noticed that you had posted something about dark mirror scrying, how you travel inside the mirror or something like that, is there any way you could elaborate on this and how it is done since I have not found this technique anywhere in my studies.  If you know of a good article on it on the internet, maybe you could direct me.

And one more thing in my meditations I have come across a symbol, it is either etched on a piece of bark or it is tangled in the roots of a tree.  It is one strait vertical line, with two little lines connecting about halfway down and branching off downward and horizonally like a child would draw a bird's foot.  Well I was told that the symbol was called a witch's foot but could find out nothing more about it.  Have you seen or heard of this symbol and if so could you tell me anything about it.

If you want to answer this one privately because I know that a lot of your readers are young beginners I would understand, you also have my permission, if you post it to edit out anything that you don't think needs to be posted on you site.

Thank you very much for your time and for the service you perform for the pagan community.
Sincerly
Silent Storm

Dear Silent Storm:
     What a fascinating experience you are having. First do not be afraid, but do be cautious, do not do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable. I think that it would be a good idea to treat this particular mirror as something special. I would purify it, and as you suggested it drape it in a black cloth, that would keep the energies that you are building up into it, from scattering. Ration your time with the mirror and do not let it become a fixation. The symbol you mention is probably Norse in origin. That does not matter though, I would draw the symbol on parchment and keep it on your altar. I would also move the mirror to your altar, and before using it, light and purify the altar. There is very little written today about Black Mirrors, and scrying in particular. Most books on these subjects were written at the turn of the last century, and are very speculative. I have been asked to teach this art, and cannot, because all I can say is look at and see what happens. You appear to have the gift, so do not abuse it, do not be scarred, and do not become too involved, just take it easy. Listen to yourself, and you will be told when to look in your special mirror. Make it a special occasion, or a special rite. Good luck.
     Bright blessings:
          Merlin.

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