The Rite Stuff

'Very simple rituals are the most powerful tools for raising engaged, fulfilled, resilient children. Rituals give families a sense of identity, along with comfort and security. They slow down time and heighten our senses.'

-Meg Cox, The Book of New Family Traditions

I read this quote in the December issue of Today's Parent magazine. The last sentence gave me a revelation into understanding why I love Anglican church services, full of ritual, so much. I have not been to many services like that, but coming from a completely different church background, I find it refreshing, a totally different experience of the sacred. I love the way the Eucharist is celebrated.
I have never been to a Catholic service, but I have been told they use incense, and I am sure I would love this too.
Currently, I satisfy myself with the occasional 'bathing' ritual- fill the tub with water just as hot as I can stand it, filled with scented bubbles, and light pure beeswax candles. And imagine that I can't hear the kids getting out of bed...

Green Witch

Green adjective 1. not fully developed in growth or perfection.
2. characterized by the presence of greenness, esp. of fresh, flourishing vegetation.

Witch noun 1. a woman who professes to practice magic.

After discovering that witches do not even believe in Satan (who belongs to Christianity) let alone follow him, I decided I liked it so much, that's what I would call myself.

My understanding is that 'witches' were midwives, healers, wise women or mystics. The patriarchal church just about stamped them out but they are coming back. Midwifery has been practiced in British Columbia for the past two years. It's OK now; we don't have the church telling us that because of Eve women are supposed to suffer in childbirth. Women are allowed to help other women again.

I have always practiced magic- in my garden, in the wild, wherever the sky was my roof and the earth my floor. I have prayed, sang, made affirmations and performed rituals. But it always came from my heart, not a book. I did not call it magic.

I acknowledge that I am an amateur. Therefore, 'Green' will suit me both now, and in the future. It is possible I could become a professional magic practitioner, but I will always belong to the Earth.