Embracing New Beginnings: Retiring from Work and Starting a Magical Journey
Retirement marks a significant chapter in one's life, often filled with opportunities for exploration and self-discovery. For me, this transition has led to a deeper understanding of my craft. . As I step away from the daily grind of traditional work, I find myself able to devote more time to ritual, community gatherings, and communication with fellow witches and pagans.
Honouring Tradition: Open Lammas Celebration
This Saturday, I am thrilled to host an open Lammas celebration to honour the sacrifice of John Barleycorn, the personification of the grain harvest. Lammas, is a time to give thanks for the first fruits of the harvest and to recognize the cycle of life and death in nature. This event is open to all who wish to join, offering a space to connect with the earth's rhythms, partake in traditional rituals, and enjoy the bounties of the season.
Speaking Engagements and Gatherings
As my journey into witchcraft deepens, I have the privilege of sharing my experiences and knowledge at various gatherings. I will be speaking at the Wickedywitch Camp in Brecon, an event that brings together witches from all walks of life to share stories, rituals, and camaraderie. Following this, I will attend the Mercian Gathering in Nuneaton, a beautiful Eco pagan festival that celebrates the rich heritage of pagan traditions in the heart of England. This year the festival is focussing on our rivers which is very close to my heart. I particularly love camps as a chance for me and the rest of my Dragons to get together and enjoy the natural world and each others company. This is us watching the meteor showers.
One of the most exciting ventures this year is a new workshop day on a beautiful farm in Oxwick, Bristol. This workshop aims to reconnect participants magical arts such as Scrying, Working with spirits and we will be making masks to use in a Descent of Persephone ritual to celebrate the Equinox. The serene farm setting provides the perfect backdrop for a day of learning and magical practice.
Upcoming Conferences and Coven Expansion
Looking ahead, I am honored to be a running the Cardiff Conference in November. This event will bring together scholars, practitioners, and enthusiasts of witchcraft to explore various facets of the craft, from historical perspectives to modern-day practices. It promises to be a day filled with enlightening discussions and networking opportunities.
Another exciting development is the influx of new students into our coven. It is heartening to see so many individuals eager to learn and grow in their magical practices. Our coven offers a supportive environment for novices and seasoned witches alike, fostering a sense of community and shared learning.
Making Witchcraft Accessible
One of my core missions in this new chapter of life is to make the practise of Witchcraft accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. To this end, I am committed to providing free or low-cost events and workshops. Magic is for everyone, and it is essential to ensure that financial barriers do not hinder anyone's journey into the craft. By offering affordable opportunities, we can create an inclusive and vibrant community where knowledge and practice of witchcraft can flourish.
Online Events for Inclusivity
Understanding that not everyone can attend live events, I am also hosting two free online events each month. These are designed for those who may have young children, caregiving responsibilities, or other commitments that make it difficult to attend in-person gatherings. The first event, "Tuesday Night Tarot," is a discussion group focused on the esoteric aspects of the tarot. It’s a wonderful opportunity to delve into the mysteries of the tarot with fellow enthusiasts, sharing insights and learning together.
The second event is a new venture called "Pagan Paths Wales Online Moot," held on the third Thursday of each month. This moot is an open forum for discussions on various pagan paths, fostering a sense of community and shared learning among participants. Both events are open to all, offering a welcoming space to join in the chat, share experiences, and deepen your knowledge.
Final Thoughts
Retiring from traditional work has opened doors to a world of magic and wonder. Each gathering, workshop, and celebration is a step further into a journey that feels both ancient and refreshingly new. As I embrace this path, I am excited to share it with others, fostering a community where the magic of witchcraft is accessible to all. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or just beginning to explore, I invite you to join us in this magical adventure. Together, we can honour the old ways, learn new skills, and create a future rich with the power and beauty of witchcraft.
Freedome!!!!!
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