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The Basics of Tools and Rituals
Now each altar instrument and everything to be used in ritual must be
similarly consecrated. Each item should be presented to each of the
elements in turn while an appropriate invocation to wash away negative
energies, leaving only positive ones, is spoken.
Non-traditionalists may simply focus their energies on each object in
turn and visualize energy flowing into it, while asking the force to which
they have dedicated the altar to bless it and any working that is to be
done with it.
Visualization plays an important part in spell weaving. Many spells call
for the magic maker to visualize the object of the spell or the person who
will, hopefully, benefit from the spell. There are many techniques that
help those interested in visualization to develop the ability to vizualize
and anyone who is serious about making magic would do well to study
them and make himself or herself efficient in the practice. Practising
may seem odd, at first, and novices often feel more than a little self-
conscious, sitting alone in a quiet room focusing energies on seeing
oneself being somewhere else. But exercises such as the one that follows
are well worth doing as they help to develop a skill that is very necessary
in spell weaving.
Light a candle in a darkened, draught-free room so that the flame can
burn as steadily as possible. Sit as still as you can and gaze at the flame
allowing it to hold your attention completely. Let the image fill your
mind before quickly closing your eyes. Notice how the candle has
imprinted itself on the darkness. Hold it there, in your mind’s eye,
ignoring any change of colour. If it slips to the side, bring it back to the
centre and continue concentrating until the image fades completely.
Now open your eyes and resume gazing at the candle. Continue in this
way for ten minutes, gradually increasing the time that you hold the
image of the candle in your mind’s eye.
With practise, and from such a simple start, it is possible to develop the
ability to undertake the visualization required for even the most
advanced magic making.
The Basic Ritual
Opening the circle and calling the elements
Ideally, you should open a circle every time you cast a spell and ask the
four elements to bless your magic making. The circle protects you from
outside influences that may interfere with the magic being made. Some
spell makers mark a physical circle in the room that they have set aside
for performing their magic. This is often done with a cord that has been
suitably consecrated and is usually 9 feet in diameter. It doesn’t have to
be exactly this size, but it should be large enough to hold your altar and
all the things needed to make magic.
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