:witch_pentacle: Weekly Witchy CHALLENGE - Finding Your Witchy Talents

[Satans_Helper]

I clicked that little arrow at the top I hope I didn’t do something to your post. Wanted to say wow!!! Amazing wish I could decorate some. My cat won’t allow it the only plants I can have in the house are these covered in a storage tub we put lights on. Black cat eats them to nubs. Now they both do actually but Tom is like an addict. Here is the plant protection.

Then in the basement where cats aren’t allowed anymore
I have indoor grow lights which I use during the winter. I have a pineapple, basil plants, a few mint plants down there. That’s all I decided to save over the winter. I’d have to have more lights to have more. I need to harvest some basil. And separate the mint that is making runners or new plants.

Your so crafty beautiful

[stavroula]

Challenge entry

This challenge was an aha moment, as I have never sat down to think what I am good at. My brain got squeezed that most of my talents in the craft are actually the ones that I have in my mundane life, just with magickal flavor haha

I am an eclectic witch but my forte is kitchen, glamour and self -love spells, I love working with the moon phases and stars, and I want to try working with the elements, especially fire and water.

So, now to the point. My friends call me magickal encyclopedia, as whenever they want to ask about something, I have the answer or if I don’t know I come up with a – rather- detailed research for the question. Mostly I am getting asked about crystals, herbs, god mythology (of whatever origin), correspondences, colors, astrology, tarot and meditation.

Another talent is explaining complicated stuff. I remember explaining to my spiritual friend how we calculate the moon phases and how I instantly can answer in which sign the moon is and what work/meditation is better to work on the day and her head exploded. I was looking like a mad scientist, but for me is easy to do that because I was good at maths and love astronomy and astrophysics.

What else, ah, yeah, crafting. Most of the things that I cannot find here are handmade. I have made my first wand from chopsticks, sewn altar cloths, made candles, holders for incense (from kids’ clay) etc. Now I want to make a lunar clock of sort. I have thought out of the artistic one, now I have to think about the mechanical part, so not to turn the pointers myself.

However, my greatest talent is cooking. I have been in the kitchen and around food making since I can remember and food is a serious business in my family xD And from what I have seen most of my spells work when done in the kitchen. Whenever I “cook” my intentions they always work out. The last time I did something was to set an intention for someone to tell me his true feelings (I could see he wanted to but was afraid to), he just smelled the drink I prepared and he started expressing himself. Apart from this, I am good in making homemade bath salts, oils, potpourris etc

What I want to work on is better understanding of astrology, how to connect glamour magick with fashion, crystal therapy and tarot reading.

[Cosmic_Curiosity]

CHALLENGE ENTRY

Being from Scotland, we are generally known for being modest about our talents. We don’t tend to like public praise or “blawin’ oor aen trimpit” (blowing our own trumpets). We tend to point our what we are not good at. We really are a cheery bunch . Of course I’m being stereotypical here but it’s a stereotype that rings true with many. That’s why I have found it hard to write about my talents here without also including what I am not so good at!

When it comes to my practice, I would say that I am spinning many plates (or in Scotland we would say I huv a fingir in awe the pies ). Some are spinning smoothly, some have a bit of a wobble and some are barely staying on i.e I have strengths, things I am getting better at at things that need development.

I’ve decided to use this challenge as a means of self assessment and evaluation using a traffic light system similar to that I use with the children in my class.

Got it! This is an area I feel.confident with and feel that I can share and guide others.
Getting there! It is part of my practice and I am grasping it but perhaps further study and practice is needed.
Just starting out or needs development!

Astrology🟢
This is an area that I feel I have a good firm grasp that goes beyond the basic signs. I can bring in planets, houses and aspects as well as other things such as dignities and chart patterns. I feel confident enough to share and even guide others when this area comes up. The forecast for each Astrological Season helps me to identify potential challenges as well as what to expect and I like to share this with you so that you can also be prepared.
Numerology🟢
Numbers were my thing at school. I loved them and just “got” them. That’s why numerology resonates with me and why it jist seems to click with me. Also, the meanings here resemble astrology so it makes it relatively easy for me to jump between the two.
Planetary Magick
Again, the link to astrology makes understanding the power of the planets relatively easy for me. Also, using the idea of planetary days and hours informs me of the best times or days for undertaking tasks, both magic and mundane. The use of the magic number squares links to numerology but also allows for the creation of vigils to match my intent based on the power of the planets. There is a clear link between these three areas for me.
Egyptian Deities and rituals🟢
This was obviously going to be in the list somewhere. I have quite a wide knoweldge of Ancient Egypt, not just of the historical aspects but of the deities, their roles, mythology and the workings of the priests and temples. My knowledge on this subject allows me to share it with others who may be curious. I enjoy sharing this on here and reading the responses, even if it is not necessarily something you work with personally. I am aware of the correspondences for the deities, offerings to make and can create appropriate rituals for working with deities for different purposes. I have even taught myself to read and write a bit of hieroglyphics. It all makes for a genuine and comforting way of working with my deities.
Essential Oils
I love essential oils. I have a fairly good understanding of the Properties of different oils both mundane and magic. Blending is getting better as I am learning about family groups and notes that go together so practice makes perfect with this. I am currently in the process of creating an essential oil directory for the coven. It will be posted sometime in the early new year.
Tarot
Tarot is something I have used for a bit but that I must continue developing. I have a rough idea of the cards but do still have to look things up at times. I have been getting better by again linking the cards to numerology and astrology. Where I need most work is in synthesising the meaning of various cards across a spread.
Intuition🔴
I have issues with trusting my intuition. As someone who has bouts of anxiety, I have issues in deciding whether it is my anxiety playing up or a true intuitive message. How do you develop and trust your intuition? It filters into meditation and ritual as well when you “close your eyes and take deep breaths until you are grounded”. I struggle to “know when I am grounded” and ready to progress. Any advice?
Crystals🔴
I have a range of crystals, most of which have been gifted to me but in all honesty I could not tell you what they are called or what they can do to help me. This is an area where I have very little knowledge but one that I would like to explore.

I think that this challenge has let me see that I do have talents in magick and that I can share these with others. Being a teacher, it gives me pleasure and satisfaction to share and advise others and I hope that this is alsonthe case in the coven, even if you do not necessarily use what I write, I hope you fund things interesting and enjoyable. This challenge has also let me see where gaps lie and therefore, will allow me to plan my next steps and action points to continue developing my knowledge, skills and practice.

Blessed be

Alan

[tracyS]

CHALLENGE ENTRY

I don’t know. A witchy talent . Practicing chaos Magick I’m still learning, and thankfully still surviving . But it has taught me to be spontaneous, to adapt a ritual or spell to fit with whatever moon or energy is there, rather than wait for the right moon or energy for the spell. So I guess I’m very good at modifying stuff, finding replacement correspondences, and being fearless in the face of it all going BOOM

I think my other talent, is diving off the deep end, whether I can swim or not and hoping the sharks are friendly . Bravery I guess. What do I mean? Well alot of supernatural things happen either around me or too me. I don’t deliberately invite them in, I’ve never done a seance or full spirit board, but things happen. Some unnerving, some not. And I don’t know if it’s the chaos in me, or the fact that Loki won’t take any crap but I’m still here, and relatively sane, I think

I like entities, I like talking to them, learning about them, and finding different ways to interact with them. And they seem to tolerate me, which is nice. I like the good old fashioned witchcraft where you invite a magical entity into the experience. There’s an excitement to that as I’ve no idea where it could lead. It opens new doors, and from there I learn new skills. So what does that make my witchy talent. A demon chatterbox I suppose

[Shadeweaver]

Spirit wisperer

[georgia]

@Nixi

But I don’t remember what I’m good at

That’s why we have our Books! Going back over them to edit has shown me that I have forgotten a lot, grown a lot, changed how I think and do things. I feel like I’m the same, but after rereading a bit of my early work, I realize I could be seen as a very different person than I was.

@Artemisia , your kitten is soooo cute! I’m enjoying your crafts. The wreath is fantastic! Keep up the good work. Meanwhile, I’m flowing with your creativity, stringing beads for star garlands.

@Satans_Helper

Tom is like an addict.

I once heard that when cats eat plants, there is something their little bodies need. Then again with mint and basil, it could be… Well, a local vet put on their sign, “If you don’t talk to your cat about catnip, who will?”

@stavroula

This challenge was an aha moment, as I have never sat down to think what I am good at.

I’m pleased. Your friends are pulling forth talents from within you which are valuable to the community. It takes a depth of caring to do the research they don’t have time for or don’t know how to get started. Keep up the good work. We don’t often see how our interests and skills affect others. I think it was in one of my mother’s Shantivanam newsletters of long ago: we can’t see who is following us until we turn back, but we still have to continue forward in life.

@Cosmic_Curiosity

That’s why I have found it hard to write about my talents here without also including what I am not so good at!

Finding a balance is good, as long as we use it for our inner development. Focusing on one side or the other could develop esteem or ego issues. Stating a weakness without choosing to work on it can cause a negative spiral. I bear Campbell blood deep in my family history, and the balance is sometimes like walking a tightrope. I’ve also found that when I mention something I’m not so good at, if I’m not working at it, someone will use it against me… so I’m kept on my toes, and it seems to keep me young.

@Cosmic_Curiosity

I struggle to “know when I am grounded” and ready to progress. Any advice?

I usually feel a sense of release when I ground. However, when stress runs high, that sensation gets covered up. Then I feel I can only keep plugging along and trust there is grounding going on. If I then meditate more often, I eventually find relief, reconnect, and move on. It takes time, and I get frustrated and question myself, but the questioning may be a sign I’m almost there.

@Cosmic_Curiosity

even if you do not necessarily use what I write, I hope you fund things interesting and enjoyable.

I do find your posts interesting and enjoyable. Thank you so much for taking the time and effort to share with us. I’m considering using your streetlight method in my own self assessment: I’ve been collecting possibilities, trying them out, and then moving on with barely a notice of how to keep skills honed in daily life- thus is my weakness. I’m a Jack of All Trades, and a master of none.

@tracyS

it has taught me to be spontaneous, to adapt a ritual or spell to fit with whatever moon or energy is there, rather than wait for the right moon or energy for the spell.

I find I do this a lot, too. If I need something now, I don’t wait for external anything to align. Is this part of Chaos Magic? It seems to strengthen me for emergencies. I balance it with waiting to satisfy things which are not immediate survival issues, yet I find myself thriving when I least expect it.

@tracyS

hoping the sharks are friendly

“Well, now, if you know exactly what to say to a shark, they can be very accommodating.” - Uncle Benee in the Disney movie Escape to Witch Mountain.

[tracyS]

@georgia

@georgia

If I need something now, I don’t wait for external anything to align. Is this part of Chaos Magic?

I think so.

Chaos Magicians Don't Believe in Consistency, Tradition, or Coherence

@georgia

if you know exactly what to say to a shark, they can be very accommodating

I love this. It’s a keeper

[AIRAM]

CHALLENGE ENTRY
I don’t feel like I’m good at anything…
learning learning learning
I started with the magic of the four elements and the more I learned the more I saw that apart from Angels Observers they also have Demons…
What a discovery!
so i keep reading…
I continued as a green witch, this was easier and…safe…for me…go Super…Kitchen alchemy…
and at the same time I’m learning Angelica Tarot…
so I’m not a good Witch but I try to be a good student…
Today I performed the ritual on Lilith…just letting you know…hope she heard…

[tracyS]

@AIRAM

I don’t feel like I’m good at anything…

When my father in law was critically ill in hospital I asked you to petition your angels. You prayed to Michael and he answered you. I felt healing over my father in law. So you have a beautiful witchy talent, you have a connection to angels, don’t underestimate that. It’s a gift my dear sister and friend

[AIRAM]

my love, thank you, the Angels are so good that they listen to all people…they have great love for our world…thank you, my love

[Nixi]

@georgia

That’s why we have our Books

Unfortunately I don’t have anything going back further than a year and no memories other then a crystal healing and occasional memory flashes. That’s okay though I get to learn it all and have all the firsts and who knows what I’ll discover. @Susurrus had some insight as to what I used to do but I don’t remember what that was

[Nixi]

@Cosmic_Curiosity

I am currently in the process of creating an essential oil directory for the coven

You have no idea how happy I was to read that. I spent over an hour last night trying to find properties of a few and it was a nightmare

[Cosmic_Curiosity]

@Nixi Which ones? Ill maybe be able to help. What specifically are you looking for?

[Susurrus]

I’ve read everyone’s replies & entries so far & have enjoyed reading them. As for myself & any talents…

Huge Blank Space in My Brain

I’m at a serious loss I’ve gone through so many different things in the last year & part of that was feeling like… I have no clue what I’m doing with anything at time So, I’m going to have to think about this one & how to approach it. As always, my brain is going in more than several different directions right now. My mind is stuck in a dark, open space of:

HUH??? WHAT??? I HAVE NO IDEA!!!

& nothing is coming to the forefront for me Most likely, I’m way overthinking it in that respect. If someone asked me about anyone else, I could start naming things off without hesitation

@Nixi, even in the last year, you have done some amazing things & overcome so much! If anything, you know what interests you; you then re-learn them to reinforce what you already know to bring back what you had previously learned & also learn new ways to incorporate them for yourself. Whether it has been with crystals for your own situations or assisting another with comfort or healing, you’ve worked on meditation and been able to move through things as they come to you

[georgia]

@Nixi I second Susurrus’ accomodation. It is easy to brush away the good with the not so good when thinking about the recent past, but you deserve better. You’ve worked hard, and you deserve to celebrate that!

@Susurrus , you have done some wonderful things, too, just over the past couple of months.

Celebrating isn’t easy, right now. I just got my phone fixed after a full month of fighting to get someone to come. When I walked across Route 66 to a restaurant I like, I found out they had gone out of business. So I shrugged it off, walked home, ate shrimp for lunch and watched a couple ballet movies while stringing beads. We can still find something to do to celebrate, even if we are alone and stuck at home.

Found out later someone was looking for me to invite me to a birthday party, tomorrow. I have spare beads and a movie to give the girl, so this is perfect.

[Satans_Helper]

@tracyS

I’m very good at modifying stuff, finding replacement correspondences, and being fearless in the face of it all going BOOM

That you definitely are a crafty one. A very lovely brave witch you are .

@tracyS

I think my other talent, is diving off the deep end, whether I can swim or not and hoping the sharks are friendly

I’m getting this from you. You helped me some with fear too and pushing against the grain. I’ve always gone against the grain and always thought differently but you gave me courage.

@tracyS

And they seem to tolerate me, which is nice

Who wouldnt tolerate you. Your the best

@tracyS

A demon chatterbox I suppose

Perfect I freaking love it.

[tracyS]

Funny how it’s difficult to see our own talents. I’d like to use this challenge entry to list a few of the talents I’ve noticed about this beautiful coven

CHALLENGE ENTRY FOR THE COVEN

The divine (in all its forms) sees this coven and loves all the witches in it. How do I know?
Because we miraculously find Spells8 . No Google searches, no advertising anywhere and yet whilst updating my standard apps, there it was on the app store. You have to be special to get noticed by these entities, and they’ve all noticed YOU.

Love I been around a while, joined and left many organisations and groups. This one is the only group I’ve come across that is truly inclusive of all. And to achieve that on a worldwide scale is magick.

Friendship A rare gift in these days, yet real friendships are made here, in this coven. That’s a unique talent.

Magick It’s real, it’s here. And it flows through every one of you! How do I know? When a witch is in trouble, we all pull together and perform Magick, pray to our deities, and wonders happen.

Development I’ve learnt more about the craft in this witch school than anywhere else, and it hasn’t even felt like school.

Fun The talent to laugh in the face of disaster is a gift. They say laughter heals the soul. And we have such fun here, especially with the GIFs. Thankyou

There is more, so much more. But every witch in this coven is talented, you wouldn’t be here if you weren’t. So celebrate. 2024 is coming and it will be even more fabulous than 2023, as the Way of the Witch spreads over the world. Our day has come witches! I love you all.

Blessed be

[Sivonnah]

@tracyS the coven challenge entry is great! And so true!

[Sivonnah]

CHALLENGEENTRY
This is tough for me, as it is for many! Why can’t we see ourselves as others do!

I am really good at meditation and visualization. I feel like this is kinda cheesy, but it’s true. I’ve helped others learn to do it too!
Oh, I’m a good teacher! I love helping others, and I’m good at it too
I’m good at crafting, whether it’s witch crafts or otherwise. If it’s a non-witchy craft, I make it witchy with color correspondences, incense, music, prayer and gratitude.

Honestly, I’m struggling to find anything else…I’m still learning.
I have many wonderful mundane skills which make me a good witch…

I was born to help people…I chose it as a career and helped people in many different capacities in my career. Since I can’t work anymore I was struggling to find purpose in my life. I got involved in my ALS organization. I serve on a committee to organize a fundraising walk. I will be advocating for people with ALS to our state government.
I am a good listener. I really listen to people, especially when they are talking about personal issues. I treat them with kindness and love and offer support. People aren’t always looking for advice or a solution to their problems, just someone who understands.
I have good organizational and planning skills, even if it’s organized chaos!
I can remain calm in a crisis, except my own!
I love nature…it kills me that I can’t go outside by myself anymore Especially when I get the urge to look at the flowers in my own backyard

These are all great skills for a witch to have!

[georgia]

@Sivonnah

I am really good at meditation and visualization.

It seems like the less physical we get, the more important meditation and visualization gets. Have you started casting without tools, yet? I’d like to see you empowered to continue working with energy even when you can’t otherwise. Pain and the emotions block the mind, but as long as you can think, you are still able to do something.

You have cared about us, and we appreciate that. We care about you, too; and we want the best for you. The ability to spend time with us is a great gift because time is something you don’t get back and you can’t make more. Thank you so much for everything you are!

The garden will have to come to you, now.

Oops. Forgot the source: Tenor