Ah, technology. I still remember when a broomstick was the latest in transportation innovation! Yet, here I am, at the ripe old age of... well, let’s just say I’ve seen the world change in ways even my cauldron couldn’t have predicted. The truth is, being an old witch in a new technological world has its quirks, but it also brings a deep sense of satisfaction—especially after attending events like the Critwitch conference.
This year, I had the pleasure of speaking on a few panels, discussing everything from spellcraft to the future of paganism. Let me tell you, it warms my old witchy heart to see how bright the future looks. The people coming into this space, especially the young ones, are sensible, open-hearted, and passionate about making witchcraft more inclusive and accessible to everyone. It’s a far cry from the secretive covens and hushed rituals of the past, and frankly, it’s a refreshing change.
One topic that came up more than once during the conference was lineage. Now, in my day (here I go, sounding ancient again), lineage was a big deal. Who taught you? Who initiated you? Who passed down their sacred knowledge? It was like a magical pedigree, and while I understand the importance of honoring traditions, I can’t say I’m sad to see this focus fading away. After all, what’s the point of clinging to a strict line of succession if it ends up making our communities more exclusive? Lineage can sometimes create an unnecessary hierarchy, turning what should be a welcoming and diverse practice into a closed-off club. And for what? To keep out those who might not fit a particular mold? Bah, I say. Let’s keep our broomsticks flying higher than that. But of course, I could be wrong. The beauty of being an old witch is knowing I don’t have to be right all the time!
I’ll never forget Lee Ignire’s wonderful talk at the Critwitch conference where they introduced the idea of “SPEcs.” They spoke about looking at your own practice through a certain set of lenses but then realizing you need to wear different spectacles when looking at others’ work. As witches, it’s easy to get a bit judgy when someone’s path doesn’t mirror our own, but Lee reminded us how crucial it is to remain open, compassionate, and non-judgmental. After all, we’re all wearing different spectacles in our magical journeys, and what works for one person may not for another. I think the fading focus on lineage reflects that same spirit—allowing everyone to wear their own lenses without judgment.
Speaking of things that challenge my ancient ways of thinking, let’s talk about TikTok. Yes, even an old crone like me has peeked into the chaos of #WitchTok. It’s... well, it’s something. On the one hand, I sometimes cringe at the oversimplified spells and the speed at which people declare themselves experts. But, on the other hand, you can’t deny the good it’s doing. It’s bringing people together—creating new communities where everyone can learn, share, and connect. In a world that feels increasingly fragmented, these platforms are making space for new generations of witches to find their own path, to feel seen, and to support one another.
And that’s where inclusiveness comes in, my dears. Diversity, in all its forms, is what keeps our magical community vibrant and strong. The more voices we welcome, the more perspectives we hear, the more we can grow, adapt, and yes, even thrive. Without diversity, we risk becoming stagnant, trapped in old ways of thinking and practicing that don’t reflect the world we live in today. And in a world that desperately needs healing, understanding, and magic, we can’t afford that.
As witches, pagans, or simply spiritual beings, it’s our duty to embrace inclusiveness, not just for ourselves, but for the future of our craft. If we are to change the world—and I believe we can—it’s going to take all of us working together. And that, my dear witches of all ages, is the real magic.
So here I am, your friendly neighbourhood ancient witch, watching the new world of technology, TikTok, and inclusive communities with a big grin on my face. The cauldron may bubble, but it’s the hearts and minds of the people stirring it that give me hope.
Here’s to the future. It’s in good hands.
Your old witch in the new world
well back to it
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