We are witch. We bear the power to summon the winds, control the elements, and manipulate the forces of nature. We are not evil, as many portray us to be, but rather individuals who seek balance and harmony in the world. Our knowledge and understanding of ancient rituals and spells allow us to tap into a source of primal energy that exists within all living beings. We harness this energy with respect and caution, using it only for the greater good. It is not uncommon for society to fear what it does not understand.
In fact, a commonly held belief in the pagan community is that whatever you do unto others, you should be prepared to have come back on you.
Think of a coven as sort of a church congregation People who share the same beliefs and regularly gather together in the spirit of prayer and community, minus the church or mosque. And, of course, there was the dark chapter in America s own history when, in 1692, dozens of men and women as young as four years old were arrested and charged with suspicion of witchcraft in and around Salem, Massachusetts.
It is not uncommon for society to fear what it does not understand. Centuries of misconceptions and misrepresentations have painted us as dark and malevolent beings, when in reality, we are healers, guides, and protectors of the natural world. The powers we possess are not acquired through malicious intent, but through an innate connection with the universe around us.
Are witches real? What to know about spells, magic, covens and beyond
If you took movies and TV shows seriously, witches, or those who practice witchcraft, would all be wearing pointy black hats, riding broomsticks and wickedly cackling over cauldrons.
Unsurprisingly, it's these stereotypes that have influenced essentially everything we think and know about witches, whether they're actually true or not.
In fact, these perceptions are so widespread that come October, it’s impossible to go anywhere without seeing witches on Halloween decorations or worn as costumes by trick-or-treaters and party revelers.
But is this kind of witch actually real? As in, the sort of mystical person who casts magic spells and dances beneath the full moon?
Yes and no. Beyond the commercialized versions of witches we've all been exposed to, there's more than meets the eye when it comes to those who practice witchcraft.
“Your average witch is just somebody who lives next to you and has this spiritual practice you don’t know about,” Deborah Blake, a self-identified witch and the author of “Llewellyn’s Little Book of Witchcraft,” tells TODAY.com.
Unlike today, the spiritual practices Blake is referring to were once the basis of persecution, resulting in the deaths of thousands of innocent men and women in witch trials that spanned centuries.
It's only in more recent history that Blake, and others like her, are able to openly participate in the rituals, spells and ceremonies that define their spirituality.
TODAY talked to the experts to better understand the beliefs of modern witches, as well as breaking down the origin of witch stereotypes in pop culture.
Here's everything to know on witchcraft, spells, magic, covens, broomsticks and more.
Kathy Najimy, Bette Midler and Sarah Jessica Parker in "Hocus Pocus." United Archives GmbH / Alamy Stock Photo
We are attuned to the ebb and flow of the seasons, the cycles of the moon, and the delicate balance of life. Our practices and traditions have been passed down through generations, preserving ancient wisdom and empowering future generations. We have an unwavering commitment to learning and growing, expanding our knowledge and refining our craft. We celebrate the diversity within our community, embracing different paths, practices, and traditions. We acknowledge that each witch walks their own unique path, yet we unite under the common bond of wielding supernatural power for the betterment of all. In a world plagued by conflict and imbalance, we seek to restore harmony and reconnect humanity with the natural world. We use our abilities to heal the sick, enhance the power of love, and provide guidance during times of uncertainty. We are witch, and we are here to inspire, to empower, and to create positive change. Through our strength, wisdom, and compassion, we strive to bring light to the darkness and restore harmony to a world in need. It is time to break free from the shackles of fear and prejudice. It is time to embrace the true nature of witchcraft and recognize its potential to heal and transform. We are witch, and together, we can create a world where magic and mundane coexist in harmony..
Reviews for "Witchcraft and Spirituality: Navigating the Path to Enlightenment"
1. Samantha - 2/5 stars
"We Are Witch" didn't live up to my expectations. I found the plot to be unoriginal and predictable. The characters were also poorly developed, and I had a hard time connecting with any of them. The writing style was also lackluster, and I felt like the story dragged on longer than it needed to. Overall, I was disappointed with this book and wouldn't recommend it to others.
2. Jonathan - 1/5 stars
I couldn't even finish reading "We Are Witch" because it was so poorly written. The dialogue was awkward and unnatural, and the plot was extremely slow-paced. The main character lacked depth and I couldn't find myself caring about what happened to her. The supernatural elements in the book were also poorly explained and felt out of place. I wouldn't waste my time with this book.
3. Emily - 2/5 stars
"We Are Witch" had an interesting concept, but it fell flat in execution. The pacing was slow, and it took forever for the story to go anywhere. The author also relied too heavily on clichés and didn't bring anything new to the genre. The romance aspect of the book felt forced and unrealistic. I was disappointed with this book and wouldn't recommend it to others looking for a captivating read.
4. Michael - 2/5 stars
"We Are Witch" had potential, but it failed to deliver. The story lacked originality and was filled with predictable plot twists. The characters were one-dimensional and their actions didn't make sense at times. The writing style was also mediocre, and I found myself losing interest in the story quickly. Overall, this book was a letdown and I wouldn't recommend it to others.