The fact is that learning the Craft includes a lifetime of education, and living the Craft means a lifetime of dedication. Dedication to yourself, to the Divine, to the Earth on which you live, and to those you choose to share your journey with.

Many of you may have already discovered that, while this is a beautiful expression of spirituality, it really is not an easy road to travel at times. Just the amount time involved, itself, can test the limits of how dedicated we are willing to be. The amount of knowledge to be had, can sometimes be overwhelming. As the old saying goes, "The proof is in the pudding", which in 'witchy' terms means that "actions really do speak louder than words", and "time invested is time well spent".

"To Know, To Dare, To Will, To Be Silent". Also known as "The Witches' Pyramid", these four priniciples offer a solid foundation for building a truely magickal life. Each works with the other so that when combined, we get the true essence of what it means to not only live, but to indeed experience, the path of the Craft.

It is not enough to say "I am a Witch". This statement must be backed by the appropriate behavior as well. The Witches' Pyramid provides the firm ground needed to support your claim, and believe me when I say that following these four priniciples will help you to grow and develop into a masterful Witch.

To Know

What does it mean to truly know, and what exactly are we supposed to know? Aside from already understanding that we have an extensive education ahead of us, there are additional areas of "knowing" to be aware of.

Development:

~Know yourself ...

Take the time to understand who you are, why you are the way you are, and what you hope to become.

~Know strength in your beliefs...

Don't let doubt shadow what you believe in. If others don't agree with you, its ok. Conviction in your beliefs makes you stronger as a person.

~Know your path...

Learn everything you can about the path you have chosen. This leads to a greater understanding of the 'self', and enables you to grow as a person.

~Know the true value of knowledge...

Without understanding why you are learning all this, there really wouldn't be any point in continuing on. Realizing how valuable this knowledge is, and learning how to apply it, will inevitably provide a very rewarding life.

~Know truth...

Don't allow yourself to be blinded by romantic notions. Don't mislead with false information, while trying to sound like you know what you are talking about (this only makes you look foolish). Seek the truth in everything you do. Be true to yourself, and true to the path. In this truth you will know wisdom.

~Know your community...

Find out what is available to you. Are there local study groups? Where can you go for supplies? Get to know other Pagans in your area. Find organizations that are local that you can volunteer at. Get to know your neighbors. Learn where you can help to better your community.

~Know the Divine...

Build a relationship with the God and Goddess. Allow yourself to experience Their presence. Listen to what They have to say, and learn that the Divine is with you in every aspect of your life, surrounding you in everything you can see, touch, taste, feel, and hear, in addition to your relationship with the Divine in the spiritual realm.

Magickal:

~Know your purpose...

What are you doing, and why are you doing it? Without specific reasons, you shouldn't be doing it just because you can.

~Know your goal...

What are your intentions? What do you hope to accomplish? You must have a definite end result in mind, otherwise there is no telling what can happen, or who could be affected.

~Know self-control...

Don't be excessive, obsessive, or possesive. (Say that three times fast...lol ) In doing so, you could waste precious time and energy, as well as create big difficulties for yourself in the long run.

~Know the Rites...

Understanding the ritual and magickal process can and will make all the difference in the outcome when performing the steps associated with them. It is important to have full comprehension of everything that you do. Why are you doing it? What are the benefits? How will it affect the outcome?

~Know your tools...

What tools will you need to accomplish your goals? What is each tool used for and why? How do you use these tools to enhance the ritual and/or magickal process?

~Know the rules...

"An ye harm none" should be top priority on the list, as well as understanding the repercussions should you fail to plan properly, and take precautions.

~Know your surroundings...

Has the area been cleansed of negativity? Did you cast your circle correctly to provide the proper protection? Do you have everything you need immediately before you so that you don't have to stop in the middle, disrupting the process, to go get something? Do you have the appropriate privacy necessary to complete your actions without being disturbed? Be aware of everything around you.

~Know Magick is real...

While we may not be able to completely understand or explain how or why magick works, the fact remains that it really does work. Believe in yourself, believe in your actions, and know that the magick will work.

To Dare

Did you ever play the game "Truth or Dare" as a child? Have you ever had someone say to you "I dare you to (do this or that)"? If you are familiar with these, you know that a 'dare' usually comes with a certain amount of bravery associated with it to see it through. Perhaps, in the case of "truth or dare", you chose the route of the truth to save yourself the embarrasment of the insidious act your "friend" may have had in store for you. Even still, sometimes it required just as much courage to share the truth as it would have been to accept the dare.

In terms of Witchcraft, "To Dare" is a little easier on the nerves, but it still often encompasses a level of courage and bravery to see it through.

Development:

~Dare to seek knowledge...

Don't be afraid to question what you are learning. Be bold enough to explore the possibilites to enhance your own knowledge. And be courageous enough to continue your education to further your own growth.

~Dare to stand alone...

Have the courage to stand up for what you believe in. Don't be afraid to be original. Originality is what makes each of us unique, so don't fear being different.

~Dare to create change...

If you see something that you don't like, or don't agree with, take a chance and change it. Change is good, whether it is on a personal level, or a more wide spread one.

~Dare to be a new you...

We all have those aspects of ourselves that we wish we could change. Perhaps you smoke and want to quit, or you're overweight, and wish you weren't. Maybe you feel an attitude come on everytime you see that person you dislike, or you just don't want to motivate yourself to get that task done that you've been putting off for months. The ability to change is within you. Dare yourself, and accept the challenge. Tell yourself that you can quit smoking or lose weight...that you can smile at that person you dislike without forcing it...that you really can get the job done. Have the guts to make those necessary changes, and you will shine with pride because of it.

~Dare to see the "self"...

Look at both your light and dark side with honesty. Don't try to kid yourself. We all have many facets of the "self". The key is to realize them, understand their true nature and what triggers them, then be brave enough to face them and do something about it if we don't like what we see.

~Dare to brave the unknown...

In the world of Witchcraft, there is a great deal of the unknown, particularly for those just beginning their journey. You have to be willing to explore the unknown if you wish to grow on this path. Experiencing that which we can not physically touch, learning to understand the mysteries, and seeking our own truths is all a part of the richness of this life.

~Dare to get involved and take a stand on issues...

There is so much going on in the world that could use our assitance...Abuse, disease, destruction of our Mother Earth, animal extinction...the list is plentiful. We, as individuals, need to confront these issues. We need to work to protect and heal these Divine gifts we've been blessed with. We must think of future generations and how they will be affected if we don't take a stand now. By having the courage to take a stand, we start the process of healing.

Magickal:

~Dare to cause change...

Both magickally and non-magickally speaking, we have the means to create change in all areas of our lives and our surroundings. To use magick to assist in these changes, takes guts. We can not fear our actions. We must be able to see, to feel, and to know that it will work, without hesitation.

~Dare to choose the appropriate course...

I am of the firm belief that the use of magick should not be used haphazardly, or as a crutch to our existence. I feel that magick should be used only as a last resort. We need to consider all possible courses of action before we turn to magick, because, many times, the answer or solution can be so simple if we give an honest look at our options. Magickal energy is not a toy, and to manipulate its very fabric unnecessarily, is to disrespect this wonderful gift we have available to us. Be courageous enough to explore other avenues.

~Dare to do it right...

If you are going to choose the route of magick, be serious in your efforts. Again, magick is not a toy. It's important that you know what your goal is, why you are using magick to reach that goal, and the appropriate tools to assist you. Half-baked efforts bring about half-baked results. If you aren't going to take the time to do the proper research, or all that is required to send your magickal intentions appropriately and correctly, then don't do it.

~Dare to have control...

It is up to you to be in control when using magick. You must be in control of the process, and your enviornment if your efforts are to be truely worthwhile. Paying attention to details is a must. If you don't feel confident that you have control of your actions, don't do it. Lack of control can be dangerous, inviting all sorts of unwanted into your life.

~Dare to be responsible...

You must be willing to take responsibility for your actions. We've already discussed the "ripple theory", and this is where it applies the most. What you do doesn't just affect you. It affects everything in the path of your goal. Are you prepared to be responsible for all that is touched by your actions? Have the guts to accept the possible reprecussions if you are going to work with magick.

~Dare to follow-thru...

Working a magickal spell, more often than not, is just the beginning of what is needed to see end results. You have to make additional efforts, which is also known as following thru on your intentions. If your intention is to bring more wealth into your life, whether it be monitarily, romantically, better health, etc., it is important that you also do things to help increase your odds of success. Magick is not an instant "Poof! You're a Prince!" means of results. Follow through on your magickal efforts by buying healthier foods, doing things to enhance your romantic endeavors, and getting out there and looking for a better job. Dare to get off your 'duff' and be physically active in assisting your magickal efforts. Don't take your magick for granted.

To Will

The Will is a powerful thing. We are, of course, talking about the human spirit, our inner energy, and what we can accomplish by shear "will".

Development:

~Will to practice your craft...

Do you have the dedication it takes to be a Witch? Can you find the discipline within yourself to continue moving forward on your journey? It is only by your will that you will be successful in your own growth. Do you have the will to stick with it?

~Will power to do what it takes...

The only way to truly experience growth is to get out and do it, and the willingness to draw on self-motivation is essential. If you want to meet other's, will yourself to get out there and network. If you want to increase your knowledge, will yourself to step into the classroom and learn. Focus your energy and concentration on the successful outcome, and will your feet to carry you forward. I can't help adding the old adage "where there's a will, there's a way."

~Will for commitment...

If you say you are going to do something, do it. And if you can't keep your commitment, be willing to say so. This applies to both what you commit to for yourself, and what commitments you make to others. (This would also apply to magickal work, because once you start the process, you can't just quit. You are committed to see it through to the end. Leaving magickal work open and unfinished is really a bad idea.) Not only does ignoring your commitments make you look bad, but others will view you as unreliable, and unreliable people tend to get ostracized.

~Will to keep a clear level head...

How many times have you let a situation get the best of you? Maybe you've gotten angry, depressed, jealous, etc. We all have heart-felt emotions, and we all have our own ideas about how things should be. But did it help you to let this circumstance rule your reaction? My guess is, probably not. It probably made you very tired in the end, and this is a sign of using unnecessary energy. While it may not always be easy, learning to stay calm, maintaining a clear, level head, during stressful times is much healthier for us in the long run. Not only does it allow us to maintain balance in our lives, but it helps us to stay focused. Don't give up your beliefs...just learn to maintain your composure when others seek to upset your balance. Do your best to be your best, and the best will be your gift.

Magickal:

When we're talking a magickal life, 'will' is, in my opinion, one of the single most important ingredients to success. Your will is like your control panel for results.

~Will to focus...

Maintaining focus is not always as simple as it sounds. When working in a magickal/ritual enviornment, it is not beyond possibility that things can happen to distract you. From something as simple as your pet entering your circle, to the more influential circumstances like visiting spirits, learning to stay focused can make all the difference in your experience. (Of course, it doesn't hurt to know how to incorporate a quick protection spell without losing your focus, if visiting spirits are not welcome.)

~Will to draw energy into yourself...

Are you willing to recieve the energy on which you call upon? Do you have the will to bring it into yourself? Not only must you be able to draw the energy to you, but you WILL feel this energy, so you must be willing to experience it.

~Will to control energy...

Once you have it, what do you do with this energy? You don't hold on to it, that's for sure. You must know how to form and shape the energy for its desired use. You must be able to will it away from you while knowing how to direct the energy towards its correct, and intended goal. Without the will to control energy, you have no business practicing magick.

~Will to experience...

listening to your inner voice, seeing your goal in your minds eye, feeling the sensations that come with magickal work...these are all experiences that you must be willing to accept.

~Will to "harm none"...

No matter what state of mind you may be in, this should be a top priority. Sometimes it can take the utmost self-control in order to avoid costly mistakes. Pay attention to details, both in your words and actions.

~Will to follow thru...

Again, follow-thru is important. On top of the previously mentioned follow-thru of additional physical actions to assist your magickal goals, there is also the spiritual or magickal follow-thru. Will it take more than one 'magickal application' to complete your work? Do you have the will or strength to continue with the necessary steps. Be absolutely sure before you even begin. You really wouldn't want it to come back and bite you in the butt because you lacked the conviction to follow thru.

To Be Silent

Last, but not least, "Silence is golden." This phrase has been around for a long time, and I know it has been said to me more than once in my lifetime (smiles). Let's face it, Witches' tend to be a strong willed bunch, and with that often comes the need to vocalize ourselves on certain issues. But there are many instances in the Craft where silence is very appropriate. And I won't try to kid you, sometimes it is difficult to maintain silence, often requiring a great deal of self-restraint.

Development:

~Silence with those who won't understand...

Remember that Witches do not proselytize. This means that we don't try to convert people. It is best to share only with those of like-mind, or interested parties. First, you don't want to come across as throwing your religion at someone who would consider it unwelcome. Second, you may be opening the door for a battle you aren't prepared to fight. And third, because they may not share your views, the effort you put forth would only be wasted energy.

~Silence to experience growth...

It is only when you silence yourself, that you can clearly hear to learn. If you spend all your time trying to "get a word in edge wise", how can you possibly develop and grow? The fact is, you won't. You'll stunt your growth by depriving yourself of valuable nutrients, so to speak.

~Silence your pride...

I sit here remembering when I first found this path, and how incredible I felt knowing it was so right for me. I am proud of the choice I have made to travel this journey, and I feel a tremendous amount of satisfaction in being a Witch. It would be all too easy to flaunt this fact, and brag about how I can perform magick. But...this serves no practical purpose other than to draw attention to myself in a world where Witchcraft is still seriously misunderstood by so many. Again, we don't proselytize. Be proud of who you are, and draw your satisfaction from knowing that you have chosen the right path for yourself. Hold your head up high, and show your pride by being the best that you can be, instead of bragging about it.

~Silence for your inner voice...

Allow yourself to hear what's inside of you. We need to have those moments where we surround ourself in silence just so we can think. Turn off the T.V., don't run the dishwasher just yet, step away from the computer, send the family out for pizza, and take some time to be alone with you. When we offer ourselves the chance to hear our inner voice, we provide ourselves a way to bring balance to our lives. By turning off the chaos of daily living, for even a short time, gives us the chance to recognize our own growth.

~Silence on behalf of privacy...

Respect the privacy of others. There are many who are still in the "broom closet", and they choose to remain there for a reason. It is neither your place, nor your right, to share any information about other individuals. It is also not your responsibility to share information about your Coven, if you belong to one. Never give out names, locations, or share what you do when you are with a group of Witches for any reason. I can't stress this enough. Freedom to practice our religion often, unfortunately, requires secrecy to avoid being harrassed. Secrecy is also often required of Coven members to protect the interests, and unique aspects, of the Coven. Something shared in confidence, is not for the eyes or ears of another.

Magickal:

~Silence for power...

Magickal work requires concentration. If you have the stereo on full blast, this not a good enviornment for magickal work. If the family is the next room creating a distraction, you will not be able to focus on your intentions. You need to be able to hear your own thoughts. You need the silence to maintain inner balance, and be able to work effectively. (This doesn't mean you can't use some nice astral background music...just make sure that your enviornment provides you the a proper level of concentration for what you need to do.)

~Silence before magick...

Don't go around announcing that you are going to be working magick. You're likely to have a curious friend at your doorstep wanting to get in on the action. You'll also have non-believer's razzing you when a million dollars doesn't land in your lap when you were done, because they don't understand the process. It is also possible that something may not have worked out the way you had hoped, leaving you feeling silly for opening your mouth in the first place.

~Silence in the interim...

While you are waiting for the results of your magickal endeavor, don't go around discussing what you have done. This could have a weakening effect on your magick. And again, if something doesn't work out, it could leave you feeling silly for saying anything, and prompt your having to explain why it didn't work.

~Silence in the after glow...

When your magick has come full circle, successfully seen to its intended goal, don't discuss it with others. Feel proud, and enjoy your accomplishment, but don't brag. A boastful attitude now could be your downfall next time, causing results that could be disagreeable.

To Know. To Dare. To Will. To Be Silent. Four simple statements with so much meaning behind them. The Witches' Pyramid is valuable in the Craft as it offers you the foundation to a rich and fulfilling magickal life. When you combine the developemental prospects with the magickal ones, you open the door to endless possibilities.

Realizing that this journey takes more than reading a book (or a webpage) is a step towards understanding. Having the courage to go forth into the unknown shows strength and a determination for betterment. Making choices backed with self-discipline proves a commitment to responsibility. And attaining the skill to listen, not only to the world around you, but to your inner-voice, offers a power far greater than any magick you can produce. It provides you the opportunity to let your actions speak for themselves. More importantly, it offers the ability to obtain knowledge, and knowledge is the ultimate power.

BACKSTUDY~BUDDY HOMENEXT

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Lesson ILesson IILesson III