This week we’re talking about magick and its profound impact on our lives. So gather ’round, witches, grab your cauldron, light some incense, and settle in as we unravel this mystery together.
Part 3: How does magick make me look to outsiders?
Now, let’s address a concern that often plagues the minds of many practitioners: how will our practice of magick be perceived by others? First and foremost, who friggin cares? It’s your journey, your truth, and your path. The opinions of others should never dictate the authenticity of our practice.
Think about it—when you visit a friend’s house, do you go hunting for a Bible or count the number of crucifixes on their walls? We all have our own unique expressions of spirituality, and it’s no different for witches.
For years, I kept my altar discreet, tucked away in corners when I was renting. Crystals were discreetly placed, dragons carefully positioned, and candles strategically arranged. I wanted to avoid unnecessary questions and judgments. But as I evolved on my path, I realized the importance of being true to myself and embracing my beliefs without hesitation.
When my partner and I purchased our first home in December 2021, I decided to make a bold statement. I proudly set up my old cubicle shelf as a prominent altar, showcasing all my ritual tools, visual aids, and precious specimens. It was a symbolic declaration of my identity and an open invitation to others to understand and accept who I am.
Now, my home serves as a gathering place for friends and loved ones. We host dinners, movie nights, and various lifestyle parties. And guess what? My altar remains on display for all to see. It has become an integral part of my home, as natural as any other form of personal expression.
During my 2022 Halloween party, the coffee table was pushed in front of my altar to protect it from my niece that I was babysitting regularly at the time. She’s a little explorer in the making. A friend noticed this and casually suggested moving the table to improve the visibility of my altar. Without a second thought, I replied, “It’s there to protect my altar from the tiny terrorist.” He paused for a moment, looked at my altar with new respect, and said, “Well, when she’s crawling on top of the table in a few months, find something smaller to block her so you can see your collection on your altar.” We laughed together, enjoying the light-hearted moment.
In that moment, it dawned on me that our friends see us for who we are, not the symbols or rituals we embrace. Our genuine connections and shared experiences transcend religious or spiritual differences. In fact, among the diverse crowd at that Halloween party, including several I knew were Christians and a few witches,, not a single person questioned my altar or looked at me any differently.
We must remember that our friends love us for who we are, quirks and all. They may have already noticed the crystals tucked away in our bras, the fragrant incense we burn, or the subtle shifts in our behavior during moon phases. Trust me, no one’s boobs are that lumpy!
So, rise above the fear of judgment and fully embrace our magickal selves. Let your altar be a reflection of your authenticity, and let your actions speak louder than any external opinions. Embrace the beauty of diversity, both within and outside of our community. Our true friends will love and accept us for who we are, and those who don’t are not worth our time or energy.
Before we go, let’s discuss the general impact of magick on how practitioners may be perceived by outsiders. When it comes to the question of how magick makes us look to others, it’s important to recognize that perceptions vary greatly depending on individual beliefs, cultural backgrounds, and personal experiences.
For some people, magick may be viewed with skepticism or even fear due to its association with the unknown or supernatural. They may hold preconceived notions about witchcraft, influenced by media portrayals or cultural stereotypes. In such cases, practicing magick openly and authentically may raise eyebrows or elicit curiosity.
On the other hand, there are individuals who embrace diverse spiritual practices and have an open-minded perspective. They may appreciate the beauty and significance of magick as a form of self-expression and personal empowerment. These individuals are more likely to see magick as an intriguing aspect of someone’s identity rather than something to be judged or dismissed.
It’s important to remember that the reactions and judgments of others should not determine the worth or validity of our magickal practices. The most important aspect is being true to ourselves and finding a sense of fulfillment and connection through our chosen path. As long as our practice is grounded in respect, empathy, and ethical considerations, we can confidently embrace our beliefs without seeking external validation.
Ultimately, the way magick is perceived by outsiders is highly subjective and dependent on individual perspectives. What matters most is cultivating a sense of self-acceptance and finding like-minded communities where we can share our experiences, insights, and knowledge without fear of judgment or misunderstanding.
So, whether you choose to openly display your altars, wear symbols of your magickal practice, or keep your beliefs more private, remember that it is your journey and your connection to the divine that matters most. Trust in the power of your magick and the transformative impact it can have on your life, regardless of how it may be perceived by others.
Unleash Your Inner Witch 