Smile.... It Always Works and Its Always a Blessing

I am a sucker for any book store... I admit it.  It is difficult for me to go into one and not walk out with some form of reading material.  Barnes & Noble is even worse because most of them now have a starbucks smack dab in the middle of the store.  Thus I have 2 vices that I have to try and overcome and needless to say I am not good at either...

Yet yesterday while out and around I stopped by the local Barnes & Noble as I wanted to pick up a couple magazines I have been looking for.  I was saddened to learn that the Rolling Stone issue I was wanting was out of date and I had missed it.  However I was thrilled to find the issue of Q (A British music magazine) I had been wanting and thought I had missed with a great article on Matthew Bellamy - lead guitarist and singer for Muse.  Now some of you may be saying Muse?  Well lets just say that if you have a chance check them out.... They are truly the next big thing from that wonderful country across the pond.  (hint:  I am somewhat of a fan)

Although finding the magazine was a great thing, I found something else even better.  I always stop by the small section of New Age, Mystical, whatever they call it area and see if any new books have arrived.  I really should not do this as I always seem to find one that I must have.  I had to laugh as "The Men Who Stare at Goats" (a book about psychic spys & another great George Clooney movie) and "Goddess of the Market-Ann Rand and the American Right were both in this section.  I mean I can sort of see why the first was there, but was unsure why the latter was.  I mean I know she was an antheist but really. That was the only thing that I could think tied it in with New Age and such... Anyhow about my find...

While looking over the few titles they had, which really seems to keep getting smaller each time I go in there... I found a book that caught my attention.  I am sure many of you have already seen this book, read it, whatever, but to me it was a little nugget of gold I found in the bottom corner of the shelf.  I know it is not the best way to purchase books but many times I rely on my intuition to lead me to what I need and it was right on yesterday. 

It was the cover that caught my eye first, a tranquil slate blue with greenery and a crescent moon in the upper right corner.  Then the title "HedgeWitch" by Silver Ravenwolf.  Something just told me that I had to get it.... And so I did... Last night as I begun to read it (after I read the article on Muse ), I could hardly believe it... It was like it was speaking to me about all the things I have been mulling around in my mind and heart the last few days....

Three treasures in one afternoon.... Hard to believe... Muse, a new book, and oh yea a nice hot vanilla latte with a dash of cinnamon.  I could not do anything but smile big and think to myself before I fell asleep.... it always works.... and its always a blessing. 

The Solitary

Although I know that there are many that frown upon the one who may call themselves a Solitary Practitioner, in many ways we have all been one at some time in our journey. Most commonly it is at the beginning when we are questioning ourselves and learning about the craft. Even those who eventually choose to join a group, whether it be to learn and grow or to practice in the way they feel is proper (being led by an elder), in the beginning we were all a solitary.

There are many reasons one may choose the solitary path. Some are unable to find a coven in their area. Others may simply prefer to practice alone. Through out history there is reference to the solitary. The irony of this fact is that the history is referenced further back than even the organized coven. One would think that because I choose to follow the path of the solitary that I emphasize this more. On the contrary, I believe that each of us are individuals. Different gifts, different paths to walk. Because of this, some of us will work with others best as this will help to emphasize and hone the gifts that have been given us. Whereas others must walk alone. I also believe that even though one walks the path of one that this does not necessarily mean it is what they may prefer. The path of the solitary can be a lonely one. Those who have chosen this way understand what I refer to.

It is important that although our craft is practiced alone that still we commune with those of like thoughts. In my past until just recent, I did not do this. Many reasons can be given for why I did not, yet I know now looking back how much harder this made things. My coming to the point of acceptance was held back longer than possibly it would've been if I had acknowledged my way and allowed others with like minds into my life. My environment was not one that encouraged this way of thinking. On the contrary it was quite the opposite. One would like to think that through time man has become more open minded and allowed each to have their own thoughts. That the day of forced beliefs was a thing of the past. Yet honestly the punishment is just more subtle these days. True depending on your location there can be more of an acceptance for difference. Although still many do not like things that are different or that challenge their sense of security. All the more reason to hold firm to your beliefs.

In closing I urge those of you who are solitaires to continue to learn. In the walk of the solitary, learning is essential, as there are not others to share ideas or teach old ways. It can not be stressed enough how important it is to read on the subject. A couple books that are excellent references are Wicca For One by Buckland and Living Wicca by Cunningham. Both explain the path of the solitary and gives excellent insight to a simplistic manner of initiating your journey. And fellowship with others. One because it is helpful in your journey and also because it is just a good thing. Until next time, I leave you with blessings and wishes of good things to come.

Peace
Raelin

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