Confessions of a Modern Witch

Using the Ancient Instructions- Thoth and the Architecture of Wisdom

2026-04-19T07:25:00.004-04:00

"Thoth is the Master of Words and the Scribe of the Gods. Today, we explore his role as the architect of our spiritual reality, his presence in the PGM, and how his energy complements Hecate’s light by providing the structure we need to stay sovereign. Part 3 of our Triple Threshold series."

Using Ancient Instructions: Why I Work with Anubis & Hekate

2026-04-11T07:27:00.008-04:00

Anubis and Hekate are the ultimate partners of the threshold. Today, I’m sharing my personal connection to Anubis, how he complements Hekate’s role at the crossroads, and how the PGM provides the "instructions" for a successful Shadow Audit.

When we look at the Greek Magical Papyri (PGM), it becomes clear that the ancient magicians weren't interested in keeping pantheons separate—they were interested in what worked. In this video, we explore the functional partnership between the Gatekeeper and the Key-holder. Anubis ensures your heart is light enough to stand at the crossroads, and Hecate ensures you have the keys to walk through them. Today, we begin a 5-part journey into the 'My Hecatean Triad'—using ancient wisdom to navigate the modern world."

If you want to focus on one core piece, the Egyptian Book of the Dead is your best bet for Anubis and Thoth. For Hecate, look at the Homeric Hymn to Demeter, where she uses her torch to help find Persephone in the dark. Other Essential References: The Greek Magical Papyri (PGM): These ancient spells actually blend Greek and Egyptian gods together, often invoking Hermes (Thoth) and Hecate in the same ritual. Liminal Rites by Sorita d'Este: A great modern resource on Hecate's history as a "liminal" (threshold) goddess. The Book of Thoth: A legendary text attributed to the god himself, covering wisdom and the underworld. Rev. Sosanna Olson🔮 By Her fires🔥 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️ My Website - www.hecatebrimo.org 📦 Support the Goldsboro Blessing Box & Buy an E-Book: [https://byherfires.my.canva.site/#shop] 🕯️ Access the Free Ritual Library: [https://byherfires.my.canva.site/#library] 🔥Subscribe to My Channel: [https://www.youtube.com/@ByHerFires?sub_confirmation=1] I recognize and honor the Indigenous tribes whose sacred lands we now inhabit and the enslaved Africans whose resilience and contributions shape our community. At the Sanctuary of Hecate Brimo, we actively uphold these legacies in all our practices, ensuring our actions reflect this commitment. #pagan #magic #witchcraft #readings #oracle #weeklydraw #psychic #healing #consultation #hecate #hekate #neuseriverwitch

Using Ancient Instructions: My Hecatean Triad

2026-04-04T07:29:00.006-04:00

"Stop trying to choose between pantheons. The ancient magicians of the PGM knew that Hekate, Thoth, and Anubis worked together as a functional trinity for the soul.

Today, we begin a 5-part journey into the 'My Hecatean Triad'—using ancient wisdom to navigate the modern world."

Spring 2026 Sanctuary Update: Where Your Support Goes

2026-03-30T09:04:00.007-04:00

"It’s time for our Spring 2026 update. Today, Rev. Sosanna Olson shares the impact of the Blessing Box, the transition to the new hecatebrimo.org, and the roadmap for the Sanctuary for the rest of the year. Thank you for being the 'Torchbearers' of this community."

Rev. Sosanna Olson🔮 By Her fires🔥

🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️

My Website - www.hecatebrimo.org

📦 Support the Goldsboro Blessing Box & Buy an E-Book: [https://byherfires.my.canva.site/#shop]

🕯️ Access the Free Ritual Library: [https://byherfires.my.canva.site/#lib ...]

🔥Subscribe to My Channel: [ / @byherfires ]

I recognize and honor the Indigenous tribes whose sacred lands we now inhabit and the enslaved Africans whose resilience and contributions shape our community. At the Sanctuary of Hecate Brimo, we actively uphold these legacies in all our practices, ensuring our actions reflect this commitment. The music used is copyright-free music. #pagan #magic #witchcraft #readings #oracle #weeklydraw #psychic #healing #consultation #hecate #hekate #neuseriverwitch

The 2000 Year Old Solution You're Ignoring - Ancient Wisdom in a Modern World

2026-03-29T04:49:00.001-04:00

Most people treat spiritual growth as a feeling, but ancient philosophy treated it as a set of instructions. Today, we’re looking at the Five Virtues of the Covenant of Hekate—their roots in Platonic ethics and the 2013 collaborative project that defined them for our modern community. In a world of chaos, these are the tools we use to stay sovereign.

In this video: The Lineage: How 2,000-year-old ethics were adapted for the 21st century. The 5 Pillars: A deep dive into Compassion, Courage, Temperance, Justice, and Wisdom. Daily Practice: Using affirmations to anchor these virtues. The Crossroads Layout: Our signature 3-card Oracle study. Connect & Grow: ✨ Free Ritual Library: hecatebrimo.org 🛍️ Shop & Support: hecatebrimo.org 📖 The Blog: confessionsofamodernwitch.com #Hecate #virtues #SanctuaryOfHecateBrimo #coh #covenantofhekate #compassion #wisdom #justice #courage #compassion

Regaining Your Spiritual Sovereignty: What Religion Gets Wrong

2026-03-21T08:18:43.321-04:00

Welcome back to By Her Fires, a space dedicated to the Goddess Hecate Brimo. I’m Rev. Sosanna Olson, founder of the Sanctuary of Hecate Brimo. Today, we are doing the hard work. We’re talking about the 'Stockholm Syndrome' of spirituality, the legal battle for your moral agency, and how to finally reset your own internal compass. Stay with me—we’re going to look at the history they didn't teach you and the archetypes that can help you reclaim your own path of Active Harmlessness."

Now, you’ll see me looking at my laptop today—I’m neurodivergent, and I use my notes as an anchor to make sure I stay on track and don't wander off on a tangent. It’s my way of making sure we stay focused on the history and the archetypes that help you reclaim your path."

Let’s get started.

Is our spirituality inherited? Are we following the religion of our oppressors?

1. The Morality Hijack: The Permission Slip Myth

Arthur C. Clarke famously stated: "One of the great tragedies of mankind is that morality has been hijacked by religion." This is our starting point. When an institution "steals" morality, they convince you that without their specific book, building, or blessing, you would be a monster.

The magician Penn Jillette famously addressed this question. When asked, “Without God, what stops you from stealing all you want?” he replied that he already does steal as much as he wants—and the amount he wants to commit is zero.

"Goodness" isn't a religious product; it’s a human trait. We have an internal compass powered by empathy. Most of us don't avoid hurting people because we’re afraid of a divine "police officer" in the sky; we avoid it because we don't want to cause pain. That internal desire to do no harm proves that morality is built-in, not bolted-on.

2. The Stockholm Syndrome of Spirituality

Many of us inherit our religion the same way we inherit a family debt. We are born into "spiritual muscle memory"—rituals we perform without thinking and loyalties we never signed up for. This is where it gets uncomfortable: Are you praying to the same system that was used to colonize your ancestors? There is a specific kind of tragedy in rejecting every part of a past oppression except the religion that the oppressors used to justify the chains.

The Ghost Laws Even today, seven states in the U.S. (including Arkansas, Mississippi, and Texas) still have language in their constitutions that technically prohibits atheists from holding public office. In our own state of North Carolina, the document that governs your neighbors still technically lists non-believers alongside "criminals" as people disqualified from service.

In 1961, the Supreme Court ruled in Torcaso v. Watkins that these "religious tests" are unconstitutional. Yet, these states refuse to remove the language. Why? Because keeping those words on the books is a form of spiritual "territory marking." It’s meant to tell you that you are a second-class citizen if you don't subscribe to their specific God.

Historical Control

The Incan "Sun" Monopoly: The Inca held tribal idols "hostage" in the capital to ensure loyalty. Modern systems do the same by holding your "reputation" or "legality" hostage.
The Council of Braga (572 AD): They banned lighting torches at crossroads to break the people’s connection to their land. If you can’t honor your own crossroads, you have to go to their church.

3. The "Apostasy Trigger": Recognizing the Glitch

Why do people eventually walk away? Usually, it's because they encounter a "glitch" in the system. This is the Apostasy Trigger. It’s that moment when your inherited system demands you hate someone your heart tells you to love, or when it mandates a conflict that your internal compass rejects.

When the "habit" of your religion causes more suffering than it heals, your mind naturally seeks a new "technology." This isn't a rebellion; it’s an Integrity Upgrade. You are finally putting down a weapon that was handed to you at birth—a war that was never yours to fight.

4. The Scribe vs. The Follower

If you are resetting your compass, you are moving from being a "Follower" to being a "Scribe." A follower waits for a script; a scribe researches, edits, and writes their own.

Research as Ritual: In the ancient Hellenistic world, people didn't just "submit" to one god. They mixed and matched. They "subscribed" to the values that helped them survive and thrive.
Choosing Your Tools: For me, archetypes like Hecate, Thoth, or Anubis are not "new masters." They are mirrors. Hecate is the guardian of the threshold—the perfect "key" for someone in transition. Thoth and Anubis represent the discipline of the mind and the weight of the heart.
The Mirror Test: You don't need my archetypes. You need to find the "mirrors" that reflect the best version of your humanity. The goal is the same: to have a toolkit that helps you live a life of Active Harmlessness.

5. The Sovereignty Checklist

Ask yourself these questions to see if you’ve truly reset:

The Harm Test: Does my path require me to dehumanize or "other" anyone else to stay in good standing?
The Origin Test: Am I following this because it brings me peace, or because I’m afraid of disappointing my family?
The Question Test: Does my system encourage me to ask "Why?", or does it tell me that questioning is a sign of weakness?
The Ownership Test: If I were the only person left on earth, would I still practice these virtues?

6. Practical Sovereignty: Morality in the Streets

True morality doesn't need a sermon; it needs a sandwich. When you stop doing things to earn "points" for an afterlife, you start doing things because they are right in this life.

I'm reminded of Sofia in The Color Purple when she tells Celie, "You ought to bash Mr. ____'s head open and think about Heaven later." We need to focus on reducing suffering now and worry less about the "pearly gates."

"Sovereignty isn’t just a word we use to feel empowered; it is a responsibility. When you stop waiting for an institution to tell you who to help, you start seeing the crossroads in your own backyard. You move from 'What does my religion say?' to 'What does my humanity require?'"

This is why we support the Blessing Boxes in Goldsboro, NC. Our internal code—our Sovereignty—requires us to reduce suffering at the crossroads. Your support proves we don't need an institution to tell us how to care for one another.

Now, let’s get to the Three-Card Pull for this week.

Connect & Grow: ✨ Free Ritual Library: [hecatebrimo.org] 🛍️ Shop & Support: [hecatebrimo.org] 📖 The Blog: [confessionsofamodernwitch.com]

#Hecate #ArthurCClarke #SpiritualSovereignty #InheritedConflict #ActiveHarmlessness #Thoth #Anubis #SanctuaryOfHecateBrimo

Reference of State Laws:

Arkansas (Article 19, Section 1): > "No person who denies the being of a God shall hold any office in the civil departments of this State, nor be competent to testify as a witness in any Court."

The Point: This doesn't just bar you from office; it historically claimed that if you don't believe in their God, your word is legally worthless in a court of law.

Maryland (Declaration of Rights, Article 37): > "That no religious test ought ever to be required... other than a declaration of belief in the existence of God."

The Point: This is the very clause that Roy Torcaso fought in 1961. It explicitly frames "belief" as a prerequisite for "trust."

Mississippi (Article 14, Section 265): > "No person who denies the existence of a Supreme Being shall hold any office in this State."

North Carolina (Article 6, Section 8): > "The following persons shall be disqualified for office: First, any person who shall deny the being of Almighty God."

South Carolina (Article 17, Section 4): > "No person who denies the existence of a Supreme Being shall hold any office under this Constitution."

Tennessee (Article 9, Section 2): > "No person who denies the being of God, or a future state of rewards and punishments, shall hold any office in the civil department of this State."

The Point: This one is particularly aggressive—it doesn't just require a belief in God, but a belief in Heaven and Hell ("rewards and punishments") to be allowed to serve your community.

Texas (Article 1, Section 4): > "No religious test shall ever be required... provided he acknowledge the existence of a Supreme Being."

The Modern Deipnon - Feeding the Soul

2026-03-15T05:48:00.002-04:00

The Modern Deipnon - Feeding the Soul with Rev. Sosanna Olson

Hecate’s Deipnon is a 2,500-year-old practice, but its true power lies in how we apply it today. Join me as we reframe this ancient "evening meal" into modern action through the Goldsboro Blessing Boxes. While we are discussing this today (Sunday), the Dark Moon falls this coming Wednesday. This gives us time to prepare our focus and our supplies for the transition into the new lunar month.

On this channel, we use Hecate, Thoth, and Anubis as models for our own growth. Hecate: The Guardian of the transition. Thoth: The Scribe who records the lunar cycle and our actions within it. Anubis: The Opener of the Ways who guides us through the darkness. This isn't just a ritual of "purification" (Katharmos); it’s a commitment to reducing suffering. Today, I’m packing the Blessing Box with: Food: Canned proteins and meals. Protection: Socks and gloves. Hygiene: Soap, toothpaste, and feminine products. Recommended Reading: Hekate Soteira – Sarah Iles Johnston Restless Dead – Sarah Iles Johnston The Rotting Goddess – Jacob Rabinowitz Hekate in Ancient Greek Religion – Robert Von Rudloff The Greek Magical Papyri (PGM) – Ed. Hans Dieter Betz Devil Girls of Ancient Rome - Jacob Rabinowitz Support the Sanctuary: ✨ Free Ritual Library: hecatebrimo.org 🛍️ Shop the Sanctuary: hecatebrimo.org 📖 The Blog: confessionsofamoderwitch.com 🔥Subscribe to My Channel: [https://www.youtube.com/@ByHerFires?sub_confirmation=1] Sunday Card Pull: Stick around until the end of the video for our weekly Three-Card Oracle Pull to navigate the energy of the coming week. "Brimo demands that we be formidable in our care for one another." Rev. Sosanna Olson🔮 By Her fires🔥 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️ I recognize and honor the Indigenous tribes whose sacred lands we now inhabit and the enslaved Africans whose resilience and contributions shape our community. At the Sanctuary of Hecate Brimo, we actively uphold these legacies in all our practices, ensuring our actions reflect this commitment. #pagan #magic #witchcraft #readings #oracle #weeklydraw #psychic #healing #consultation #hecate #hekate #neuseriverwitch

The Dangerous Words You Sat to Yourself Everyday & a Three Card Pull

2026-03-08T09:33:00.010-04:00

The Dangerous Words You Say to Yourself Every Day (And How to Change Them)

Most people think affirmations are something you repeat in the mirror every morning.

You know the ones.

“I am successful.”
“I am powerful.”
“I am unstoppable.”

But the truth is… most people are already using affirmations all day long.

They’re just not positive ones.

Every time you say something like:

“I’m terrible with numbers.”
“I’m horrible with names.”
“I always mess things up.”

Your brain hears that as an instruction.

Your brain doesn’t argue with repetition.

It adapts to it.

So today I want to talk about the power of the words we say to ourselves, the affirmations we accidentally repeat every day, and three simple affirmations that can actually shift how you see yourself.

News

Before we get started I just wanted to cover a few things really quick.

Old website shut down due to Wix’s affiliation - New website up
Membership center for CoH at Sanctuary of hecate Brimo has been up for a week and we already have 10 applications

The Problem With Most Affirmations

One of the reasons affirmations get a bad reputation is because people are told to repeat things that don’t feel true.

For example:

“I am wildly successful.”

If your brain doesn’t believe that, it pushes back.

Your brain immediately responds with:

“No you’re not.”

That’s why effective affirmations aren’t about pretending.

They’re about direction.

They help move your identity forward instead of reinforcing limitations.

The Hidden Affirmations We Use Every Day

Most people don’t realize they are constantly reinforcing beliefs about themselves through language.

These small phrases become identity statements.

When you repeat them often enough, your brain accepts them as truth.

Here are some of the most common ones people say without thinking.

1. “I’m bad with numbers.”

Counter it with:

“I’m learning how to understand numbers better.”

2. “I’m horrible with names.”

Counter it with:

“I’m getting better at remembering names.”

3. “I always procrastinate.”

Counter it with:

“I’m learning how to start things sooner.”

4. “Nothing ever works for me.”

Counter it with:

“I’m still figuring out what works.”

5. “I’m terrible with technology.”

Counter it with:

“Technology is something I can learn step by step.”

6. “I always mess things up.”

Counter it with:

“Every mistake helps me improve.”

7. “I’m not creative.”

Counter it with:

“Creativity grows when I give myself space to explore.”

8. “I’m not disciplined.”

Counter it with:

“I’m building better habits every day.”

9. “I’m too old to learn that.”

Counter it with:

“Learning is something I can do at any stage of life.”

10. “That’s just the way I am.”

Counter it with:

“I’m always capable of growth and change.”

When you start paying attention to your language, you realize something important.

You are constantly shaping your identity with the words you repeat.

The Rule for Effective Affirmations

If you want affirmations to work, there are three simple rules.

1. They must feel believable

Your brain has to accept them.

2. They should focus on growth

Not perfection.

3. They should be repeated consistently

Repetition is what programs belief.

This is actually one of the reasons I’ve written several books focused specifically on affirmations and intentional language. Each one explores how simple changes in the way we speak to ourselves can gradually reshape our thinking patterns and our sense of possibility.

Affirmations aren’t magic words. They’re tools that help redirect the stories we repeat about ourselves.

Three Affirmations That Actually Work

Instead of using exaggerated statements, try affirmations that support growth.

These are simple but powerful.

Affirmation 1

“I am capable of learning anything with time and practice.”

This replaces the idea that you are simply “bad” at something.

Affirmation 2

“Every day I am becoming a more capable version of myself.”

This focuses on progress rather than perfection.

Affirmation 3

“The way I speak to myself shapes the life I create.”

This one reminds you that your words matter.

The Rule for Effective Affirmations

If you want affirmations to work, there are three simple rules.

Closing

The words we repeat eventually become the beliefs we carry.

Those beliefs influence our choices, our habits, and the direction our lives take.

So if you’re going to repeat something to yourself every day, make sure it’s something that helps you become the person you want to be.

And if you want to explore this idea more deeply, the four affirmation books I’ve written go much further into how intentional language can reshape the way we think and live.

Sometimes the smallest shift in the words we use can create the biggest shift in how we see ourselves.

You can help me to continue my work by visiting HecateBrimo.org and picking up on of my e-books on affirmations today!

Sacred Icons — The Object, Its Use, and Hecate Across Cultures

2026-03-01T08:39:00.002-05:00

This week we'll discuss sacred icons and their use.

Rev Sosanna Olson presents on sacred icons and pulls three cards from the River Witch Oracle. What are icons? What makes them sacred? Can you create your own? All these questions answered in this video! Rev. Sosanna Olson Torchbearer & Keybearer - Covenant of Hekate Founder - Sanctuary of Hecate Brimo HecateBimo.org

Outline

1. What Is an Icon? (Focus on the Physical Item)

A physical representation of a deity or sacred force
Can be statue, relief, carved stone, painted image, metal figure, clay figurine
Not the deity itself
Acts as a focal point for attention and devotion
Makes the abstract tangible

Key distinction to mention:

Icon vs idol debate in history (idol implies worship of object itself; icon is representation)

2. Why Physical Objects Were Used in Worship

Humans are sensory beings; we connect through sight and touch
Ancient temples housed cult statues
Household shrines often had small figurines
Objects anchor prayer, offerings, and ritual acts
Help create sacred space within ordinary space

Historical references:

Greek cult statues in temples
Roman lararium (household shrine)
Egyptian divine statues treated ritually

3. Materials Used Historically

Focus on the object itself.

Stone (marble, limestone, basalt)
Wood (many early statues were wooden)
Bronze and metal
Clay and terracotta (very common for household devotion)
Painted plaster

Important note:

Clay and terracotta were accessible to ordinary people
Not all icons were expensive or grand

Tie-in opportunity:

Handmade clay figures are historically accurate forms of devotion

4. Types of Hecate Icons Historically

Keep this factual and specific.

Single Form Hecate

Woman holding torches
Often robed
Found in temple contexts

Hecate Triformis (Triple Form)

Three bodies or three faces
Facing different directions
Often placed at crossroads
Sometimes around a central pillar

Animal Associations

Dog imagery
Horse and lion heads in Orphic Argonautica
Serpents in magical papyri

Anatolian (Caria) Representations

Temple-based
More rigid, structured, less romanticized

Mention:

Most ancient images are not the gothic witch aesthetic seen today

5. What Makes an Icon Sacred?

Ritual attention
Repetition of offerings
Placement in dedicated space
Interaction over time

Historically:

Statues were washed, dressed, perfumed
Lamps lit before them
Offerings placed regularly

The object becomes sacred through relationship.

6. How Other Traditions Use Icons

Brief but clear.

Egyptian daily statue rituals
Eastern Orthodox Christian icons as devotional windows
Catholic saint statues
Folk traditions using carved or printed images

Emphasize:

Use of images in worship is global and cross-cultural

7. What to Use in Modern Devotion

Grounded and practical.

Traditional statue
Handmade icon
Symbol (key, torch, animal figure)
Printed image
Minimalist object representing presence

Important:

Historically, accessibility mattered more than aesthetic perfection

Toxic Positivity & Feb 22, 2026 Three Card Pull

2026-02-22T08:37:00.006-05:00

Join Rev. Renee Sosanna Olson, to discuss Toxic Positivity and what you can do to reframe the conversation plus a three card pull from the Crossroads Oracle deck.

Toxic positivity is the pressure to stay upbeat no matter what’s happening. It’s the idea that if you’re spiritual enough, faithful enough, high-vibe enough, you won’t feel anger, fear, or grief. It sounds like “just trust the universe,” or “everything happens for a reason,” or “don’t claim that energy.” This video explains toxic positivity and offers guidance on how to avoid. Ending with a three card draw.

Present – Time The Present card emphasizes the importance of focusing on the now. It serves as a reminder that the present moment is where your true power lies. This card urges the seeker to fully engage with their current situation, act with intention, and make decisions that reflect their immediate reality. It may also suggest that the seeker is too caught up in past regrets or future anxieties, and must return to the present moment. Question: How can I cultivate mindfulness in my daily life to make the most of the present moment? Key Words: Mindfulness: Awareness, presence, attention Action: Initiative, effort, movement Awareness: Consciousness, perception, focus It encourages the seeker to ground themselves in the present, recognizing that this moment holds the key to progress and fulfillment. By living mindfully and acting with purpose, the seeker can create meaningful change in their life. Hecate Daeira - The Knowing One - Epithet DEH-rah Hecate Daeira represents the goddess in her aspect as the bearer of profound wisdom and insight. It is associated with fertility, spring, and the hidden mysteries of life. Her presence is often felt in the cold, damp, and dark places of the world, illuminating them with the light of her torches. This card calls upon the seeker to deepen their understanding and connect with the hidden truths. Question: What wisdom can I access to navigate my current situation? Key Words: Wisdom: Knowledge, perception, discernment Insight: Understanding, intuition, foresight Fertility: Growth, abundance, creation This card embodies the power of knowledge, guiding the one to explore the depths of wisdom and uncover the mysteries that lie beneath the surface. It encourages introspection and the pursuit of deeper understanding, illuminating the path toward clarity and truth. Hecate Melinoe - Bringer of Nightmares: (Epithet) Meh-LEE-noh-eh This card signifies dominion over the dead, embodying the essence of a Chthonic goddess and a wandering leader of the departed. This card implies fateful endings, suggesting a halt in a path, and a significant closure. Question: What endings in my life can I embrace to allow for transformation? Key Words: Ghosts: Spirits, souls, entities Nightmares: Dreams, sleep disturbances, haunting Funerals: Tributes, memorials, burials By embracing the wisdom of the Melinoe card, one navigates the transformative power of closures, recognizing that even in endings, there is potential for new beginnings. It encourages an open-hearted approach to change, acknowledging the cyclical nature of life and the continual process of renewal and rebirth. Rev. Sosanna Olson🔮 By Her fires🔥 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️ My Website - www.hecatebrimo.org My Blog - www.confessionsofamodernwitch.com I recognize and honor the Indigenous tribes whose sacred lands we now inhabit and the enslaved Africans whose resilience and contributions shape our community. At the Sanctuary of Hecate Brimo, we actively uphold these legacies in all our practices, ensuring our actions reflect this commitment. The music used is copyright-free music. #pagan #magic #witchcraft #readings #oracle #weeklydraw #psychic #healing #consultation #hecate #hekate #neuseriverwitch

Work as Devotion & 3 Card Pull Feb 15, 2026

2026-02-15T07:00:00.007-05:00

Work as Devotion

Today's video is a presentation that I created back in 2025 on "Work as Devotion" - it focuses on how to take your talents or your labor and turn it into a source of devotion. Stay tuned till the end for the three card pull from the River Witch Oracle deck. --- Here's a link to the presentation - https://drive.google.com/file/d/18Pk0...

Reading for Feb 15, 2026

Summer Abundance, Playful, Activity The Summer card radiates with the warmth of abundance, the light-heartedness of playfulness, and the buzz of activity, perfectly encapsulating the essence of summer's sun-drenched days and balmy nights. This card beckons you to immerse yourself in the season's generous offerings, embrace the joy of being, and engage in the vibrancy of life at its peak. Abundance flows through the card, reflecting the season's lavish display of nature in full bloom and the plentiful opportunities for growth and enjoyment. It encourages you to open your arms to the riches around you, acknowledge your life's bounty, and share the plentiful harvest of your efforts and dreams. This card reminds you of the fullness of life and the gifts that await when you approach the world with gratitude and an open heart. Playfulness is woven into the fabric of summer, and this card captures the spirit of spontaneity and joy that defines the season. It invites you to lighten your heart, to laugh freely, and to rediscover the simple pleasures that delight the soul. The Summer card encourages you to make time for play, creativity, and the rejuvenating power of fun, reminding you that play is not just for children but a vital source of renewal and inspiration for all. Activity buzzes at the card's core, emblematic of the season's dynamic energy and the natural inclination towards exploration and adventure. This card inspires you to engage fully with life, pursue your passions zealously, and embrace the myriad experiences of summer. Whether pursuing new ventures, enjoying the outdoors, or indulging in seasonal hobbies, the card encourages wholehearted participation in the dance of life.

Musician Inspiration, Harmony, Expression The Musician card celebrates music's profound and universal essence as a bridge between hearts, cultures, and souls. It acknowledges music's unique capacity to transcend boundaries, offering a shared language that communicates the depth of human emotions, narratives, and dreams. This card reminds us of the rich history of musical traditions worldwide, each with its own identity, history, and cultural significance. It invites us to approach music with respect, curiosity, and openness.

Deer Gentleness, Sensitivity, Devotion The Deer card steps softly into your consciousness, embodying gentleness, depth of sensitivity, and the steadfastness of devotion. This card reflects the deer's serene presence in the natural world, highlighting the power of softness, the importance of emotional receptivity, and the commitment to the paths we hold dear. It invites you to approach life with a tender heart, tune in to the subtleties of your inner and outer environments, and dedicate yourself to your principles and loved ones wholeheartedly. Gentleness, a key trait of the deer, encourages you to move through the world with kindness and a soft touch. It reminds you that strength is not only found in force but also in the quiet power of compassion and calm resolve. The Deer card invites you to embrace your innate gentleness, to interact with others and yourself with care and understanding, and to recognize the impact of a gentle word, thought, or action in healing and nurturing the spirit.

Affirmation

Rev. Sosanna Olson🔮 By Her fires🔥 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️ My Website- hecatebrimo.org I recognize and honor the Indigenous tribes whose sacred lands we now inhabit and the enslaved Africans whose resilience and contributions shape our community. At the Sanctuary of Hecate Brimo, we actively uphold these legacies in all our practices, ensuring our actions reflect this commitment.

Offerings, Sacrifice and Altar Devotion

2026-02-07T08:25:00.000-05:00

In this video, I talk about offerings, sacrifice, and altar devotion as they have existed throughout history. Before modern witchcraft or organized religion as we know it today, people honored their gods through simple, consistent acts of care. Food, drink, incense, handmade objects, and time itself were given not as payment or fear-based obligation, but as a way to maintain relationship and presence.

I also touch on what sacrifice meant historically. To sacrifice was to make something sacred, to set it apart. In many cultures, sacrifice was communal and shared, not about loss or destruction. Most devotional acts happened at the household level through small altars, lamps, bowls, and offerings refreshed regularly as part of daily life.

This conversation leads into my latest clay work. Working with earth has always been part of sacred practice. Pottery, lamps, figurines, and vessels were among the most common devotional objects across cultures because they required time, attention, and intention. Making something by hand has always been a powerful offering.

This video is an invitation to think differently about devotion. You don’t need extravagance. You don’t need perfection. You need consistency, care, and honesty. Those are the things people have offered the gods for thousands of years, and they still matter now.

I also cover my decision to move out of Wix as a webhost. I'm working on transferring my domains now and have already moved Sanctuary of Hecate Brimo to Facebook. I will look to find another suitable host but for now, I just cannot continue to support this organization. Happy to discuss this decision privately.

I have added the individual cards from the reading below. I hope this post finds you well and happy.

Recommended reading - Hellenic Polytheism - Household Worship

And Her Hair was Like Snakes ....

2026-02-06T06:01:00.006-05:00

When people ask what Hecate looks like, the short answer is: it depends. The ancient sources don’t give us one clean image. She's been called a towering woman, a Titan bearing torches and swords, protector of the crossroads, the howling figure in the dark with dog heads and fiery eyes. Some sources describe her hair and feet as made of snakes.

The Orphic Argonautica describes her with three heads, one of a horse, one of a dog, and one of a lion. Each has a long history of symbolic meaning: the dog as guardian of the underworld and companion at thresholds, the horse as a symbol of noble strength and movement between realms, and the lion for power, protection, and ferocity.

In the Greek Magical Papyri, she is invoked with fearsome imagery. Serpents in her hair, scales across her body, thunder and howling accompanying her steps. These weren’t just poetic images. The ancients believed what they wrote. Those performing magic saw her as liminal, powerful, and terrifying.

Animal-headed depictions of Hecate, horse, dog, lion, show up across magical texts and ancient art. Triple-bodied statues from Asia Minor and carved gemstones from the Greco-Roman period show her holding torches and knives, sometimes accompanied by cords, whips, or snakes. One of the first descriptions I ever read said, “her hair was like snakes.” That line stuck with me.

For six years, I wore my hair in dreadlocks as a devotional act. Snake-like hair wasn’t symbolic for me. It was lived daily as a way to remind myself of the image I wanted to present. Dreadlocks resemble and move like snakes. They sway with energy. They hold memory. And they change how people look at you.

Some folks, especially within the Black community, were warmer and more open. In other places, I felt side-eyed or dismissed. Electronics stores, car dealerships, you get the picture. But this practice wasn’t about anyone else’s comfort. It was about embodiment. Wearing my devotion made Hecate’s presence feel immediate, grounding me in her power with every step I took. When people asked about my hair, I told them. I told them it was for Hecate.

The documentation we do have is scattered across sources:

“Her feet and hair are formed of snakes… her passage is accompanied by thunder, shrieks, yells, and the deep baying of dogs.”— Berens, 1880, The Myths and Legends of Ancient Greece and Rome

“You who shake your head with hair made of fearsome snakes… your belly covered in scales…”— PGM IV, 2793–2806

She's also been called the Black Dog, Black Bitch, and Brimo, which means “the Angry One.” These are titles for a deity who lives in graveyards and shadows. She walks between the worlds, torch in hand, sword at her side.

Some sources describe her as “black,” both literally and symbolically. She is tied to the underworld, night, death, ghosts, and decay. In ancient art, deities of the underworld were often drawn with darker skin. That could reflect the realm they ruled or the fear they inspired.

So was Hecate Black (POC) in a racial sense?

Her earliest worship came from Caria, in southwestern Anatolia, modern-day Turkey. People from that region would have had olive or darker skin, curly or wavy hair, and features that reflect the Mediterranean and Anatolian world.

Her father Perses, a Titan of destruction, and her mother Asteria, “the Starry One,” are not described in terms of appearance. We know that even though she was of the Titans, she was depicted as human sized and often with knee length dresses and boots leaning towards the maiden vs. any other triple or lunar goddess construct. But if their myths are tied to that region, we can assume they looked more like Anatolian locals than Greek marble. This region was also very high in genetic diversity, leading us more towards an olive skinned wavy/curly haired people.

A few years back I created several images of the Goddess with darker skin and the feedback was not surprising. Lots of pearl clutching and warnings of how I was appropriating cultures not my own.

For me, it’s more likely that she was a woman of color, with textured hair and broad olive skinned features rather than the Hellenized versions we often see today.

My journey on this path has always been about being present in your body, your story, your truth. This involves how I speak, how I appear, and how I represent Hecate in the world. If I don't embody what I aim to emulate, how can I ever reach the space I'm striving for?

She isn't always comforting. She's the one who meets you in the darkness when everyone else leaves. She's the one who brings the sword, the torch, and the key, challenging you to use them.

What do you think?

We are aware that art and history are written by the victors. Do you believe this influences the images we have of Gods and Goddesses today? How does this affect your worship? Do you seek someone like yourself or culturally similar to who you are? I'm eager to hear some of the responses.

Share your thoughts with me.

Here's your reading for Feb 1, 2026

Supporting Marginalized Voices Through Action

2026-01-14T16:26:00.003-05:00

In the quiet moments of reflection, I often find myself drawn to the stories that go unheard. These are the voices that ripple beneath the surface of our collective consciousness, waiting patiently to be acknowledged. Supporting marginalized voices is not just an act of kindness; it is a sacred responsibility. It is a call to awaken our empathy and to weave a tapestry of inclusion and justice through deliberate, heartfelt action.

Listening is the first step on this journey. It is more than hearing words; it is opening a space where stories can breathe and grow. When we listen deeply, we honor the lived experiences of those who have been sidelined by society. This act of presence is a gentle invitation to understand pain, resilience, and hope.

In practical terms, this means creating environments where marginalized individuals feel safe to share. Whether in community circles, online forums, or intimate conversations, the energy we bring can either uplift or silence. I encourage you to cultivate spaces that welcome vulnerability and authenticity.

Practice active listening: Focus fully on the speaker without interrupting.
Reflect back what you hear: This shows respect and ensures understanding.
Ask open-ended questions: Encourage deeper sharing without judgment.

By doing so, we nurture a garden where marginalized voices can blossom. Bloom with love, kindness and compassion.

Words alone are not enough. To truly support marginalized voices, we must translate empathy into tangible deeds. This means standing alongside those who face systemic barriers and amplifying their messages in ways that honor their agency.

One way I have found effective is partnering with organizations that center marginalized communities. For example, I channel my mission into supporting food and housing insecure individuals through sales and donations. This model not only provides resources but also uplifts the dignity of those served.

Here are some actionable steps to consider:

Collaborate with grassroots groups: These organizations often have deep roots and trust within marginalized communities.
Support minority-owned businesses: Your purchasing power can help build economic equity.
Volunteer your skills: Whether it’s writing, organizing, or teaching, your talents can be a bridge to empowerment.
Advocate for policy change: Engage in local and national efforts that dismantle systemic inequalities.

Each action, no matter how small, becomes a thread in the fabric of justice.

The Role of Spirituality in Amplifying Marginalized Voices

Spirituality offers a lens by which to view our commitment to justice. It invites us to recognize the interconnectedness of all beings and to act from a place of compassion and sacred responsibility. When we engage in supporting marginalized voices, we are participating in a spiritual practice that honors the divine spark within every individual.

Meditation, prayer, and ritual can deepen our resolve and clarity. For instance, setting intentions before community work or donations can align our actions with higher purpose. This sacred approach transforms activism from a task into a soulful journey.

I often remind myself that healing the world begins with healing our own hearts. By nurturing inner peace, we cultivate the strength to face external challenges with grace and resilience.

Creating Spaces for Healing and Empowerment

Healing is a vital part of supporting marginalized voices. Many carry wounds inflicted by exclusion, discrimination, and trauma. Creating spaces that foster healing is an act of radical love.

Consider hosting or participating in workshops that focus on trauma-informed care, restorative justice, or creative expression. These environments allow individuals to reclaim their narratives and find empowerment through shared experience.

Here are some ideas to foster healing spaces:

Offer storytelling circles: Where people can share without fear of judgment.
Incorporate art and movement: These modalities can unlock emotions words cannot reach.
Provide access to mental health resources: Partner with counselors or healers who understand cultural contexts.
Encourage peer support networks: Connection with others who share similar experiences can be deeply restorative.

By weaving these elements into our communities, we create sanctuaries of hope and renewal.

Supporting marginalized voices is a journey that calls for patience, humility, and unwavering commitment. It is a dance between listening and acting, between honoring stories and creating change. As I walk this path, I am reminded that every step matters.

I invite you to join me in this sacred work. Let us be the gentle winds that carry these voices far and wide, nurturing a world where all can thrive. Together, through intention and action, we can embody the true meaning of community and compassion.

For those seeking to deepen their engagement, consider exploring resources and initiatives dedicated to amplifying marginalized voices. Let this be a beacon guiding your efforts toward meaningful impact.

May our collective light shine brightly, illuminating the way for those who have long been unseen.

Returning to Sosanna’s Closet: A New Chapter for 2026

2026-01-10T05:02:00.001-05:00

As we step into 2026, Sosanna’s Closet is returning to its roots and moving forward with greater clarity.

Some of you may have known this work under a different name over the past few years. While By Her Fires continues to describe the devotional and spiritual current that informs the work, we’ve chosen to return publicly to Sosanna’s Closet, our original name.

This return isn’t a rebrand for novelty’s sake. It’s an acknowledgment of where this work began as a place for gathering, keeping, study, care, and practical support and where it’s meant to continue.

A closet is not a showroom. It’s a place where things are chosen carefully, returned to often, repaired when needed, and kept because they matter. That understanding continues to guide everything we do.

A New Website, Structured for Sustainability

Alongside the return to Sosanna’s Closet, we’ve launched a newly structured website designed to better reflect how this work actually unfolds.

Rather than placing everything in a single undifferentiated space, offerings are now organized by intention and participation, making it easier to engage without pressure or overwhelm.

The new structure includes four subscription paths:

Supporter — for those who want to sustain the work and receive ongoing project updates
Healer — focused on wellness classes centered on care, recovery, and resilience
Seeker — focused on oracle and spiritual practice classes grounded in thoughtful study
Sustainer — full access to all offerings, supporting the long-term viability of the work

Each path exists to support different needs and capacities. There is no expectation to move “up” or participate in everything. The structure is meant to support choice, pacing, and return.

The focus for 2026 is not expansion for its own sake, but continuity.

Across Sosanna’s Closet, this means:

Building offerings that can be returned to over time
Prioritizing sustainability over urgency
Continuing community care efforts like the Blessing Box
Holding wellness and spiritual practice as complementary, not separate
Allowing the work to grow at a pace that respects real limits

Rather than operating on seasonal launches or constant novelty, 2026 will be shaped by monthly themes that quietly inform what’s shared — in classes, reflections, and community care work. These themes aren’t programs to complete. They’re points of orientation that allow the work to remain responsive without becoming reactive.

To mark the launch of the new website and the beginning of this next chapter, we’re offering a 26% discount on physical and digital books available through Sosanna’s Closet.

Use the code HELLO2026 at checkout.This is simply a welcome — a way of saying thank you for being here at the start of what comes next.

Returning to Sosanna’s Closet is about reclaiming what has always been central to this work: care that is practical, practice that is thoughtful, and offerings that are meant to endure.

As we move into 2026, the intention is simple and demanding in equal measure — to continue doing this work with attention, integrity, and care for the people it serves.

We’re glad you’re here.

Jan 2026 Three Card Pull - New Year's Read

2026-01-01T04:47:00.004-05:00

Below is the reading for Jan. I'll try to do one reading a month. More in-depth readings are available for purchase on my website.

Our cards today are: Spirit Bottle, Catfish and Raccoon - see the video below for your full reading.

Looking forward - Joyfully - A Review

2025-12-12T15:23:00.001-05:00

It's been a while since I did a review so when I saw my mailbox this morning I was over "Joyed".

The only real negative I had about this deck was that the book was not in color. The cards are so beautiful, I found the pages a little drab. But that's really all! the rest of the book was full of useful information and data driven fact based information on each one of the cards. It was really a "joy" to read.

If you’re looking for a tool that gently shifts your day from just surviving to finding delight, the Joy Cards deck delivers. At its heart, it’s elegant in its simplicity: forty-eight richly illustrated activity cards grounded in positive-psychology science, paired with a guidebook designed to spark what the authors call “joy gems” — those small, luminous moments that remind us stress and distraction don’t have to run the show.

From the first card pull, I appreciated how this deck makes the idea of joy feel accessible rather than fluffy. Each card pairs Lilamani de Silva’s radiant artwork with a simple action: stretch in the morning light, offer a genuine compliment, pause and notice the smell of your coffee. Others nudge you to move your body, reconnect to nature, or finally journal about what you’ve been avoiding. The guidebook explains how each practice is crafted to boost serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins — so you’re not chasing temporary happiness; you’re training your brain for long-term resilience.

Four Cards That Stood Out to Me

Be a Kid Again

This card was pure nostalgia wrapped in permission. When I pulled it, I stopped trying to be so productive for one afternoon and just played. I went outside, felt the grass under my feet, and let myself laugh without reason. It reminded me that joy doesn’t always have to be earned — sometimes it’s as simple as letting your inner child breathe for a while. We forget how healing it is to be silly, curious, and free, even for ten minutes.

Redesign Your Space

Pulling this card felt like permission to reclaim my environment. I spent an afternoon clearing clutter, rearranging my desk, and lighting one of my handmade candles. The shift was instant — my workspace felt like a sanctuary again instead of a staging area for chaos. Joy doesn’t always come from grand gestures; sometimes it’s a clear surface and a scent that feels like home.

Pay It Forward

This card resonated deeply. Its call to share your joy made me think of the Blessing Box of Goldsboro, where neighbors leave food and essentials for anyone in need. That afternoon, I filled a box with fresh fruits and veggies, along with gloves, hats, and other items to help someone through their day. There’s something profoundly grounding about giving back quietly — letting generosity become part of the rhythm of your life.

Celebrate You

This one stopped me cold because it’s so easy to celebrate others and forget ourselves. When Celebrate You appeared, I brewed coffee, sat quietly, and wrote down the ways I’d shown up for myself lately — surviving, creating, healing, growing. It wasn’t about ego; it was about acknowledgment. Joy blooms when you take a moment to honor the version of you that keeps showing up, even when no one’s watching.

How to Use This Deck

Morning draws: Set a tone of joy before the day unravels.
Midday resets: When overwhelm creeps in, pull one to pivot your energy.
Weekend connections : Use with clients, circles, or meditation groups to turn simple acts into meaningful moment.

The Joy Cards stand out because they don’t demand belief in something mystical or complicated — just an invitation to notice, move, pause, and connect. They bridge the worlds of ritual and real life beautifully, making them an ideal companion for anyone seeking calm amid the everyday chaos.

I wholeheartedly recommend Joy Cards for anyone wanting to infuse daily life with more intention and ease. Whether you’re navigating transition, rebuilding after burnout, or simply craving more light among the shadows, this deck offers a grounded and playful way in.

Pull one card each morning, and you’re not just manifesting change — you’re designing it.

If you’d like to support my ongoing work with the Blessing Box of Goldsboro, you can do so by purchasing directly through my website, ByHerFires.com. Every order helps me continue stocking the boxes with fresh food, warm clothing, and kindness at the crossroads.

Beyond the Labels: My Journey to Neurodivergence - 1

2025-10-23T04:34:00.004-04:00

For years, I carried words that didn’t quite belong to me. Bipolar. Borderline. They were the labels handed down by professionals who tried to explain why my moods seemed to rise and crash, why my energy came in tidal waves, and why I felt things so deeply. I lived under those diagnoses, trying to reconcile myself to them, but deep inside, they never fully fit.

When I look back at my old blog, Confessions of a Modern Witch, I see the evidence of my struggle written in real time.

In Embrace the Sparkle #7, I wrote about memory slips and forgetfulness:

“Over the last year or so I have started to notice that I just can’t remember things like I used to. I forget what I’m going to the store for… when I’m feeling a bit more manic than usual.”

At the time, I thought this was part of mania. Now I understand it as classic executive functioning struggles — very common in ADHD and autism.

In The Bipolar Mind – A Different Way of Thinking, I admitted my need for constant stimulation:

“I need to keep my mind busy. I needed projects and notepads and more more more … but society told me this was wrong.”

What I once labeled dangerous restlessness, I now see as hyperfocus and divergent thinking. My brain thrives on multiple projects. That isn’t a flaw — it’s a feature.

In Bipolar Awareness — Embrace the Sparkle 2, I described long nights of rumination:

“Last night I woke at 1:30 am … mind racing until after 4:00 am … reviewing the events of the day … what did I do wrong … what did I do right … should I do something different…”

That wasn’t mania. That was my neurodivergent brain stuck in a loop — autistic processing that doesn’t shut off when the body is begging for rest.

And in Being Bipolar isn’t the End of the World, I shared how my husband helped me manage:

“He takes me for walks … to help me center, or even sometimes take me to the loudest place … to help my mind devour all the chaos it can.”

What we thought was about calming mania was actually about sensory regulation — walking, grounding, and using external stimulation to give my brain somewhere safe to settle.

Slowly, the truth emerged. The labels never explained the whole picture, but discovering ADHD, AuADHD, and dyslexia reframed everything. I wasn’t broken. My brain was simply wired differently. What I had been taught to view as symptoms of an “illness” were survival strategies, sensitivities, and ways of thinking that don’t always fit a neurotypical world.

Reframing my past has been liberating. What I once saw as shameful or destructive now looks like part of my natural wiring. Instead of asking, “How do I fix this?” I began asking, “How do I honor this?”

That shift changed everything. It allowed me to build systems, embrace creativity, and treat myself with compassion. It also made me realize how many others may be carrying labels that don’t fit.

Through this site, I bring this truth into my work. My oracle decks, classes, and sound healing are not polished despite my neurodivergence — they are born from it. Hecate, goddess of thresholds, has guided me through this crossing: from misdiagnosis to clarity, from shame to understanding.

I share this because I know I’m not alone. If you’ve been told you are too much, too sensitive, too scattered — know this: you are not broken.

Every purchase from By Her Fires supports not only this work but also my monthly donations to the Blessing Box of Goldsboro, filling local boxes with food and care items for neighbors in need. Together, we honor compassion in both ritual and action. Check out my shop and help support my mission.

BY HER FIRES

Hecate and Thoth: Wisdom at the Crossroads

2025-10-10T06:38:00.014-04:00

When we step into the world of ancient devotion and magic, we often find deities from different cultures standing side by side, joined not by geography but by their shared roles in human imagination and spiritual practice. Among these unexpected partnerships is the connection between Hecate of Greece and Thoth of Egypt.

Let me be clear here, there is no historical representation of these two together. This is a personal connection, that I have made based on the energy that "I" feel from both bits of information and how "I" have connected. This information is not reflective of the Covenant of Hekate or any other organization where my work may be found.

Text to Image Creation

Neither Hecate nor Thoth should be understood as once-human beings elevated into divine status. Instead, they are personifications of cosmic principles — archetypal forces that express themselves through ritual, prayer, and story.

Hecate embodies liminality, illumination, and transformation. She is the torch that reveals hidden paths, the key that unlocks mysteries, and the guardian who stands firm at the threshold.

Thoth personifies wisdom, cosmic balance, and the transmission of divine knowledge. He is the scribe of the gods, the inventor of sacred words, and the keeper of time’s rhythm.

When we invoke them, we are not calling forth external beings in the sky. Instead, we are drawing their energies into ourselves — awakening the illumination of Hecate and the wisdom of Thoth so that these forces can guide our lives.

In ancient Greece, Hecate was first honored as a goddess with power over earth, sea, and sky. Over time, she became deeply associated with crossroads, thresholds, and the mysteries of the unseen. For practitioners today, she is a living archetype of transformation — the presence that accompanies us in shadow work, change, and moments of decision.

Within the Covenant of Hekate, her energy is cultivated through the Five Virtues: Compassion, Courage, Temperance, Justice, and Wisdom. These qualities are not external gifts but inner strengths kindled through her torches.

For the Egyptians, Thoth (Djehuty) was both lunar and intellectual. He invented hieroglyphs, measured the heavens, and recorded the judgments of the dead. In the Hermetic tradition that grew in later centuries, he became Hermes Trismegistus — the thrice-great teacher of cosmic wisdom.

Thoth is not merely a record-keeper. He is the personification of the act of ordering chaos into meaning. When we work with his energy, we align ourselves with clarity, balance, and truth.

When placed together, the resonances between Hecate and Thoth are striking:

Threshold and Transmission

Hecate opens the doors of mystery with her keys.

Thoth transmits what lies beyond, shaping it into language and understanding.

Illumination and Insight

Hecate’s torches light the unseen paths.

Thoth’s stylus records and interprets what that light reveals.

Wisdom as a Virtue

In CoH, Wisdom is the culmination of Hecate’s guidance.

Thoth is the archetype of wisdom itself — the balance of Ma’at expressed in thought and word.

Together, they invite us to see wisdom not just as knowing, but as embodied practice: choosing compassion, courage, and balance in our daily lives.

For modern seekers, the pairing of Hecate and Thoth offers a path that unites mystical insight with practical wisdom.

From Hecate, we learn to face the unknown with courage.

From Thoth, we learn to shape what we encounter into clarity and truth.

By working with these archetypal forces in ritual or meditation, we don’t summon external gods but rather activate the divine energies within ourselves. Their symbols — torches, keys, scrolls, and tablets — become tools to remind us that wisdom and transformation are available at every threshold we cross.

Devotional

Hecate, torch-bearer,

light the unseen paths before me.

Key-holder of mysteries,

open the doors of wisdom and transformation.

Thoth, scribe of the gods,

inscribe truth upon my heart.

Keeper of balance,

guide my thoughts into clarity and harmony.

Together, illuminate my mind and spirit.

Let my words carry wisdom,

let my choices reflect balance,

and let my path be lit by truth.

I wish you a glorious day!

BY HER FIRES.COM

Sources & Further Reading

Hans Dieter Betz (ed.), The Greek Magical Papyri in Translation.

Iamblichus, On the Mysteries.

The Hermetica (Corpus Hermeticum).

Sorita d’Este (ed.), Circle for Hekate Vols. I & II.

Walking with Hecate: Samhain Rituals and Honoring Ancestors

2025-10-01T06:35:00.011-04:00

October ushers in Samhain, a sacred time when the veil between worlds is at its thinnest. This season of shadows invites us to honor our ancestors, connect with the divine, and embrace the mysteries of life and death. As the goddess of crossroads and the chthonic realms, Hecate holds a central role in Samhain rituals, offering her guidance as we walk between the seen and unseen worlds.

Samhain, traditionally celebrated on October 31st, marks the end of the harvest and the beginning of the darker half of the year. It’s a time to honor the dead, reflect on cycles of life and rebirth, and seek guidance from the spiritual realms. Rooted in Celtic tradition, Samhain has evolved to include modern practices, and for devotees of Hecate, it offers a unique opportunity to deepen their connection with her.

Hecate’s role as a goddess of the underworld and guide of lost souls makes her an ideal deity to work with during Samhain. She stands as a guardian of thresholds, helping us honor our ancestors, explore the mysteries of death, and prepare for the introspection of winter.

Samhain Rituals with Hecate

Ancestral Altar

Dedicate a space to your ancestors by arranging photos, mementos, and offerings such as food, candles, and incense.

Include symbols of Hecate, like keys or torches, to invite her guidance in connecting with your lineage.

Speak their names aloud and offer gratitude for their influence in your life.

Silent Supper

Prepare a plant-based meal and set a place at the table for Hecate and your ancestors.

Eat in silence, reflecting on their wisdom and lessons.

Afterward, leave an offering of food on your altar or outside as a gift for the spirits.

Crossroads Meditation

Visit a physical crossroads or create one in your sacred space with four candles.

Sit at the center and meditate on the guidance you seek from Hecate.

Ask for clarity in navigating transitions or connecting with the spiritual realms.

Plant-Based Recipes for Samhain

Pumpkin and Sage Soup

Ingredients:

1 small pumpkin, peeled and cubed

1 onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped

4 cups vegetable broth

Salt and pepper to taste

Olive oil for roasting

Instructions:

Roast the pumpkin with olive oil, salt, and pepper until tender.
Sauté onion and garlic in a pot until fragrant.
Add roasted pumpkin, sage, and broth. Simmer for 15 minutes.
Blend until smooth and serve with crusty bread.

Apple and Cinnamon Hand Pies

Ingredients:

2 cups diced apples

1 tsp cinnamon

2 tbsp sugar or maple syrup

1 sheet vegan puff pastry

Instructions:

Mix apples, cinnamon, and sugar in a bowl.
Cut puff pastry into squares, fill with apple mixture, and fold into triangles.
Seal edges and bake at 375°F until golden brown.

A Blessing for Samhain

"Hecate, keeper of shadows and light,

Guide us through this sacred night.

With wisdom deep and ancestors near,

We walk this path without fear."

Samhain is a time to honor the cycles of life and death, embrace the mysteries, and connect with the spiritual world. By incorporating Hecate’s guidance into your rituals, you can navigate this sacred season with intention and reverence.

Whether through ancestral altars, meditative walks at crossroads, or plant-based feasts, let Samhain be a time of reflection, gratitude, and transformation. May Hecate’s torches light your way as you honor the past and step boldly into the future.

Have a glorious day!

BY HER FIRES.COM

Hecate and Anubis: A Shared Threshold in Greco-Egyptian Magic

2025-09-25T06:29:00.024-04:00

Among the most fascinating pieces of evidence for the blending of Greek and Egyptian spiritual traditions are the magical amulets produced in the Roman Imperial period. These engraved stones—sometimes called magical gems or intaglios—carried images of deities alongside strings of mysterious words of power known as voces magicae. Their purpose was both protective and transformative, drawing on the combined powers of gods who crossed cultural and spiritual boundaries.

Magical gem (intaglio) from the Greco-Egyptian magical tradition

Amulet - from the Roman Imperial period.

One particularly striking example shows Hecate and Anubis standing side by side.

On the left, Anubis appears in his jackal-headed form. He wears a short tunic and holds ritual implements, sometimes depicted as a whip, scepter, or circular object. In Egyptian religion, Anubis was the god of embalming, guardian of tombs, and guide of souls into the afterlife. In the context of Greco-Egyptian magic, however, his role expanded: he became not only a psychopomp but also a protector against hostile forces and a powerful ally in magical rites.

On the right stands Hecate, depicted in her multi-armed form, a visual shorthand for overwhelming magical authority. In some versions she holds torches, daggers, and whips, emphasizing her dominion over crossroads, thresholds, and unseen realms. To see Hecate carved with six or more arms is to see her as a goddess whose power radiates in all directions at once.

Beneath the figures runs a line of Greek letters. While they may look like a secret message, these are not meant to be read as ordinary words. They are voces magicae—the “barbarous names” or divine syllables that appear throughout the Greek Magical Papyri (PGM). Spoken aloud in ritual, these strange sequences of sounds were believed to carry the raw power of the divine, bypassing the limits of human language.

The pairing of Hecate with Anubis is not accidental. Both are liminal deities—those who dwell at the thresholds between life and death, light and shadow, the mortal world and the divine.

Hecate: Guardian of crossroads, torch-bearer, key-holder, mistress of magic and necromancy.

Anubis: Protector of tombs, guide of souls, overseer of the weighing of the heart in the halls of Ma’at.

Together, they amplify one another’s authority as chthonic protectors and guides. A practitioner carrying such a gem would be invoking not just protection, but the ability to move safely across boundaries, whether those boundaries were physical, spiritual, or magical.

I have a written work on the paring that you can find here.

These amulets remind us that the ancient world was not neatly divided into “Greek” or “Egyptian” religion. In cities like Alexandria, spiritual traditions blended, evolved, and cross-pollinated. Hecate, once a goddess of the Greek world, and Anubis, deeply rooted in Egyptian tradition, could meet in the magical imagination of practitioners who sought the strongest allies possible in their ritual work.

This is not historical syncretism for its own sake—it is evidence of living devotion, where worshippers and magicians found resonance in the shared roles of deities who guided souls, guarded the in-between, and held the keys to mystery.

For modern practitioners, this amulet offers a reminder that the sacred often resides in the spaces between traditions. Hecate and Anubis both invite us to face thresholds with courage. Where Hecate’s torches illuminate the unseen paths, Anubis’s steady presence ensures that the journey through shadow leads to truth, not fear.

Together, they show us that wisdom and protection are not bound by culture but arise wherever humans seek the divine at the crossroads of life and death.

Devotional

Hecate, torch-bearer,

light the crossroads with your flame.

Keeper of keys, opener of ways,

guide me through shadow into truth.

Anubis, guardian of souls,

jackal-headed protector,

stand beside me at the threshold,

weigh my heart with justice and courage.

Together, walk with me in the liminal,

that I may pass safely,

learn deeply,

and rise transformed.

Have a glorious day!!

Rev. Renee Sosanna Olson

Torchbearer and Keybearer - Covenant of Hekate

Have a glorious day!

BY HER FIRES.COM

Sources & Further Reading

Campbell Bonner, Studies in Magical Amulets (1950).

The Greek Magical Papyri (PGM), translations by Hans Dieter Betz.

The Magical Gems Database (Universität Wien).

Devotional

Hecate, torch-bearer,

light the crossroads with your flame.

Keeper of keys, opener of ways,

guide me through shadow into truth.

Anubis, guardian of souls,

jackal-headed protector,

stand beside me at the threshold,

weigh my heart with justice and courage.

Together, walk with me in the liminal,

that I may pass safely,

learn deeply,

and rise transformed.

The Weight of a Heavy Heart

2025-09-20T06:21:00.024-04:00

In ancient Egyptian belief, every soul faced the Hall of Ma’at after death. There, Anubis weighed the heart of the deceased against the feather of truth. Thoth, the scribe of the gods, recorded the outcome faithfully. A heart heavy with lies, cruelty, or neglect tipped the scales — while a heart light with truth, compassion, and balance earned eternal life.

This image still resonates today: the weight of the heart tells the story of how we lived, not what we owned or claimed.

The Weighing of the Heart is one of the most iconic rituals from the Book of the Dead. Archaeologists have uncovered painted papyri and carved tomb scenes showing this moment: Anubis guiding the soul forward, the heart on one side of the scales, and the feather of Ma’at — representing truth and cosmic balance — on the other. Thoth stands nearby, writing the results with precision.

To the Egyptians, this wasn’t allegory. The heart was the seat of the soul, holding memory, morality, and character. Every deed was inscribed there.

A Light Heart: When the heart balanced with or was lighter than the feather, the soul was found pure and in harmony with Ma’at. Such a soul passed peacefully into the blessed afterlife.

A Heavy Heart: When the heart weighed heavier, burdened by falsehood or cruelty, the soul was destroyed by Ammit, the devourer. For them, this was a second death — the loss of existence itself.

The Papyrus of Ani and the Tomb of Hunefer are among the clearest examples of this ritual preserved across millennia. In both, Anubis adjusts the scales, Thoth records, and Ma’at witnesses. These scenes remind us how deeply the Egyptians understood that truth is the foundation of eternity.

Though this ritual belongs to Egyptian tradition, Hecate’s role as torchbearer of the crossroads echoes the same truth. She does not weigh or record, but she guides — illuminating the threshold and amplifying the prayers of the soul so they are heard. Compassion, one of the virtues associated with her, also makes her presence here feel natural, reminding us that guidance is not only about direction but about care. Though these are completely separate belief systems, in our humanity we cross over boundaries and allow our lives to be shaped by what is just, fair, and right.

Together, the triad embodies a cycle of truth and passage:

Hecate amplifies and carries the soul’s voice.
Anubis weighs the heart, ensuring fairness in judgment.
Thoth records the outcome, preserving truth and wisdom for eternity.

For the living, their message is just as vital: how we live shapes the weight of our hearts.

Card Pull: Justice (Crossroads Oracle)

The Justice card appears as a reminder that the heart is always weighed — in myth, in ritual, and in life. To walk with a lighter heart, we must be willing to live fairly, to release bias, and to remain open to truth even when it is uncomfortable.

When your actions are impartial, when you treat others with fairness, and when you hold yourself open to growth, your heart becomes lighter. Not because you are perfect, but because you are honest. This is the balance that the scales of Ma’at demand, and it is the balance we seek.

Ask yourself:

Where in my life am I refusing to see the truth because it would demand change?

Where do I need to soften my judgments — of myself or others — to find balance?

How can I act with more fairness and openness today?

Justice teaches that the weight of the heart is not fixed. Every choice lightens or burdens it. Today you are invited to choose truth, fairness, and openness — so that when your heart is weighed, it will not be heavy with what you refused to face.

If you're interested in daily affirmations based on the Crossroads Oracle cards you can find an e-Book download here.

Guided Reflection: What Would Your Heart Weigh?

Take a quiet moment. Close your eyes and picture the Hall of Ma’at. See Anubis steadying the scales, Thoth holding his pen, and Hecate lighting the hall with her torches.

Ask yourself:

What am I proud to carry in my heart right now?

What weighs me down? What truths or regrets have I avoided?

If my heart were weighed today, what story would it tell?

Journal your reflections. Keep them safe as a reminder, or release them — burn or bury them as a ritual act of renewal. This is not about punishment. It is about clarity, honesty, and choosing what you want your heart to hold.

A Gift for You

To support this reflection, I’ve created a Protection Visualization that helps you ground, release fear, and face your truth with courage. Use it before journaling or altar work.

Download the Protection Visualization here.

The weight of a heavy heart is not just a story for the dead. It is a mirror for the living. Each day we decide what to carry, what to release, and what legacy we will leave behind.

Our conscious reminds us that truth matters, that our choices are recorded, and that wisdom endures beyond time.

If you’d like to go deeper, my oracle decks, eBooks, and classes offer ways to bring these lessons into your own practice in my shop.

And every purchase supports the Blessing Box of Goldsboro, providing food and care at the crossroads of our community.

May the weight of our actions be guided by fairness, compassion, and truth, so that when the scales of judgment are balanced, they reflect a world moving toward justice and peace.

Have a glorious day. 🔥

BY HER FIRES.COM

The Triad of Hecate, Anubis, and Thoth: Guardians, Guides, and Keepers of Wisdom

2025-09-13T06:12:00.039-04:00

This triadic connection has been quietly shaping my practice for years, but only recently have I felt ready to share it. Hecate has always stood at the center of my path, and over time Anubis and Thoth began appearing in ways that felt natural — inevitable, even. After sitting with their presence for years, I finally feel called to speak about how their roles intertwine as guides, guardians, and keepers of wisdom.

In my spiritual work, I’ve long honored Hecate as torchbearer, guide, and amplifier of magic. But pairing her with Anubis and Thoth reveals a powerful harmony — each distinct, yet deeply interconnected.

Hecate: Messenger and Amplifier

Hecate is often described as a messenger goddess, a carrier of words between realms. She doesn’t just deliver prayers and invocations — she amplifies them, ensuring they reach the ears of gods and spirits.

She also has a role as escort of the restless dead — those caught between worlds, untethered, or forgotten. With her torches, she lights their way, guiding them toward passage and peace.

And as a goddess linked to the moon, she governs cycles, thresholds, and illumination in the darkness — a thread that connects her directly to Thoth.

Anubis: Guardian and Witness

In Egyptian tradition, Anubis stands as psychopomp — guiding all souls into the afterlife. Unlike Hecate, whose domain is often the restless, Anubis escorts every soul to their rightful place.

He is also the witness of the heart-weighing, present when a soul’s deeds are measured against Ma’at’s feather of truth. His role is not only to guide, but to guard the sanctity of justice.

In this way, Anubis shares a role with Thoth, who records the outcome of judgment. Both stand in the liminal moment where a soul’s eternity is decided.

Thoth: Scribe, Magician, and Lunar Guide

Thoth may not lead souls like Anubis, but he is always present at the moment of judgment. His task is to record the truth — inscribing the results of the weighing of the heart.

Beyond this, Thoth is a god of wisdom, language, and magic — the one who gave humankind writing, knowledge, and the power of sacred words. Without him, the truths of the cosmos would remain unspoken.

Thoth, too, is a moon god, linking him to Hecate through their shared lunar influence. Where she shines torches at the crossroads, he reflects celestial light onto wisdom and memory.

The Triad Connection

When we see these three together, a powerful sequence emerges:

Hecate carries and amplifies the message, guiding the restless toward passage.
Anubis receives and escorts the soul, standing as witness to the weighing of truth.
Thoth records the outcome and preserves wisdom, ensuring that divine balance is upheld.

This triad doesn’t just govern the passage of the dead — it also teaches the living. They remind us that our words matter, that truth will be weighed, and that wisdom is eternal.

When I was becoming a Keybearer, I had to choose a title — and I chose Scriba, the Latin word for Scribe. At the time, it felt like the right fit, but over the years its meaning has deepened for me.

As Scriba, I hold the key to our stories — our past, our present, and the possibilities of our future. In this role I seek to preserve, share, and amplify the words of our community: the experiences of those who walk with Hecate, and the wisdom of those who honor her companions.

It wasn’t until I began working more closely with this triad of Hecate, Anubis, and Thoth that I realized just how aligned this choice was. Thoth, the divine scribe, recorded the truths of the heart-weighing and safeguarded wisdom for eternity. Hecate carries messages between worlds, amplifying them so they are heard. Anubis witnesses, guarding the process of passage and judgment.

In my own way, I step into that lineage — recording the voices of our covenant, witnessing our struggles and triumphs, and carrying forward the words that matter so they will not be forgotten.

And just as words become sacred when written, so too do symbols become sacred when placed with intention. One way I honor this triad is not only through story, but through space — by creating an altar that embodies their presence and brings their roles into daily practice.

Scriba - Icon for CoH Keybearer Rev. Renee Sosanna Olson

A Triadic Altar

To honor this connection, you might create a small altar with three simple symbols:

A torch or candle for Hecate

A scale or jackal image for Anubis

A pen, feather, or journal for Thoth

This altar becomes a threshold itself — a space where messages are carried, truth is weighed, and wisdom is preserved.

Invocation

Here is a short prayer you can use at your altar or in ritual:

Hecate, torchbearer and messenger, carry my words.
Anubis, guardian and witness, weigh my heart.
Thoth, keeper of wisdom, record my truth.

To support your work with this triad, I’ve created a free Visualization you can use before altar work or meditation. It helps you ground your energy, set boundaries, and open safely to divine presence.

➡️ Download the Triad Visualization here.

Working with this triad has opened new pathways in my practice — reminding me that magic isn’t just about casting, but about speaking truth, moving with integrity, and learning from wisdom across cultures.

If you’d like to go deeper, my oracle decks, eBooks, and classes offer guided ways to strengthen your spiritual connection in my shop.

And remember: every purchase supports the Blessing Box of Goldsboro, helping provide food and care at the crossroads of our community.

Let wisdom, new beginnings, and creative expression shape your day.

Have a glorious day. 🔥

BY HER FIRES.COM

Magic Comes at a Price - That Price is Action

2025-09-07T06:03:00.024-04:00

Throughout human history, the practices of magic and religion have played essential roles in shaping spirituality. This article delves into the intricate rituals of magical spells and draws comparisons with the prayers found in Abrahamic religions, such as Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. By examining their structural and ritualistic elements, we gain insights into the ways these practices connect individuals with the divine.

In the realm of magical spells, practitioners follow a distinct structure, incorporating specific actions, words, and tools. This careful arrangement is designed to create focused and intentional rituals. Elements like candles, herbs, symbols, and chants are employed to enhance practitioners' connection with spiritual forces and amplify the energy of their intentions.

Comparatively, Abrahamic prayers take a more verbal approach to communication with the divine. Traditionally, individuals express their thoughts, requests, and gratitude through spoken words. While not as reliant on tangible items, some religious practices may include the use of religious symbols or specific dress codes during prayer to enhance the connection between the worshipper and the divine.

Both magical spells and Abrahamic prayers share commonalities in their approaches to spirituality. Symbols, whether in the form of candles or religious attire, amplify the practitioner's connection with spiritual energies. Repetition is another shared aspect, with chants or prayers providing a means to build energy and focus intention.

Additionally, the rituals associated with both practices may vary in complexity. Magical spells can range from simple, solitary practices to elaborate ceremonies involving multiple participants. Similarly, Abrahamic prayers may be conducted in various settings, from private moments of reflection to communal worship during religious ceremonies.

While serving distinct spiritual purposes, the rituals of magical spells and Abrahamic prayers share common threads in their structured approaches to connecting with the divine. The diverse expressions of spirituality, whether through repetition, symbolic tools, or communal ceremonies, reflect the rich tapestry of human engagement with the mystical and spiritual realms. Understanding these varied paths fosters respect and appreciation for the myriad ways individuals seek spiritual guidance and connection.

In both magical and religious contexts, the power of intention is paramount. Whether crafting a magical spell or offering a prayer, individuals express their desires, hopes, and concerns with a specific purpose in mind. This focused intention is believed to set energetic forces in motion, creating a metaphysical ripple effect.

However, magical practitioners and devout believers understand that thoughts and prayers alone are insufficient to manifest change. As the catalyst for transformation, action plays a vital role in turning aspirations into tangible outcomes. In the realm of magic, practitioners often follow rituals with real-world actions, aligning their behavior with their intentions to bring about the desired results.

The importance of aligning one's actions with prayers is emphasized within Abrahamic religions. The idea that faith without works is dead underscores the necessity of translating spiritual convictions into practical deeds. This principle suggests that prayers gain potency when individuals actively contribute to the betterment of their communities and the world.

The fusion of thought, prayer, and action takes on new dimensions in the contemporary landscape. Activism, social justice initiatives, and charitable endeavors become integral components of translating spiritual intentions into real-world impact. The modern practitioner understands that contributing to positive change requires internal reflection, prayer, and external engagement and advocacy.

This integration is reflected in movements where individuals, motivated by their spiritual beliefs, actively participate in addressing societal challenges. Whether supporting environmental causes, championing human rights, or advocating for social justice, the modern practitioner recognizes that the bridge between the ethereal and the tangible is built through purposeful action.

In navigating the realms of magical practice and religious devotion, the acknowledgment of action as a pivotal force for change is a common thread. While thoughts and prayers serve as potent expressions of intent, the synergy of these spiritual practices with meaningful, tangible actions amplifies their transformative potential. In the modern world, the alchemy of thought, prayer, and action propels individuals to create positive, impactful change in their personal lives and the broader community.

What do you think? Is magical intention or thoughts and prayers enough to manifest change? How do you ensure that your magical intent translates into action?

Have glorious day!

BY HER FIRES.COM

I Walk with the Goddess: a Metaphor for Personal Responsibility

2025-09-07T05:50:00.030-04:00

In the realms of paganism and witchcraft, the phrase "I walk with the Goddess" echoes through sacred spaces, whispered in rituals, and woven into the fabric of spiritual practices. But what does it truly mean to walk with the Goddess? Is it a tangible journey, a metaphysical connection, or perhaps a metaphor for the profound responsibility that comes with embracing the divine feminine?

Join me in contemplating this enchanting phrase as we unravel the layers of meaning behind "walking with the Goddess." Let's navigate the realms where the mystical meets the mundane, seeking to understand how this expression transcends the physical and beckons us to embrace personal responsibility in the dance with the divine.

Modern goddess worship is a vibrant tapestry woven from diverse threads of spiritual exploration, distinct from the monolithic structures of Abrahamic religions. In the embrace of goddess spirituality, adherents find solace in the fluidity of deity, often personifying the divine in multifaceted forms that mirror the complexities of the natural world. Unlike the rigid monotheism of Abrahamic faiths, where a singular male god takes center stage, goddess worship invites devotees to revel in the divine feminine. The sacred feminine manifests in myriad archetypes – from the nurturing Earth Mother to the fierce warrior goddess – offering a rich and nuanced panorama of divinity.

In goddess-centered traditions, the interconnectedness of life is a cherished principle, fostering a deep reverence for the cycles of nature. The goddess is not an abstract figure residing in the heavens but an immanent force interwoven with the tapestry of existence. This contrast with many Abrahamic deities' distant and patriarchal nature underscores the more intimate, accessible, and egalitarian relationship practitioners share with the divine in goddess worship.

Moreover, goddess spirituality often eschews rigid hierarchies, allowing for a more inclusive and egalitarian approach. In many traditions, the divine is not confined to a distant and unapproachable deity but is recognized within every being and the world around us. This interconnected perspective nurtures a sense of shared responsibility for the Earth and its inhabitants, echoing the intrinsic connection between spirituality and environmental stewardship.

While Abrahamic religions emphasize doctrines and sacred texts, goddess worship frequently places a premium on personal experience, intuition, and direct connection with the divine. The goddess is not confined to ancient scriptures but is a living, breathing presence encountered in the tapestry of daily life. This emphasis on personal gnosis over rigid dogma empowers individuals to forge unique and intimate relationships with their chosen goddess or goddesses.

In the realms of modern goddess worship, diversity and inclusivity are celebrated. Various goddesses from different cultures and traditions are venerated, each contributing a unique facet to the kaleidoscope of the divine feminine. This contrasts with the often exclusivist stance of some Abrahamic religions, where adherence to a particular deity or doctrine is considered the sole path to salvation.

A stark departure from the structured prayer rituals of Abrahamic religions emerges within goddess worship. While prayer in Abrahamic faiths often follows a prescribed format, imbued with supplication and reverence toward a distant deity, magical rituals in goddess worship exude a more participatory and immersive essence.

Goddess worship embraces the idea that the divine is immanent and present in every aspect of life. Magical rituals become a co-creative dance with the goddess, a collaborative effort to invoke, commune, and align with the divine forces permeating the world. Unlike the structured prayers that often serve as a one-way conversation in Abrahamic traditions, magical rituals involve an interactive dialogue with the goddess, fostering a sense of partnership and shared energy.

In goddess worship, rituals are often designed to attune practitioners to the cyclical rhythms of nature and the divine feminine. Celebrating the phases of the moon, the changing seasons, and the natural elements becomes a way to connect with the goddess on a visceral level. This contrasts with the more doctrinal nature of many Abrahamic prayers, which often revolve around specific texts and established liturgies.

Goddess rituals frequently incorporate a sensory-rich experience, engaging practitioners on multiple levels. Using incense, candles, sacred herbs, and ritual tools contributes to an immersive environment that stimulates the mind and the senses. Participants may engage in dance, chanting, or meditation, fostering a holistic connection with the goddess. In contrast, traditional prayer in Abrahamic religions is often centered around verbal recitations or silent contemplation.

Magical rituals in goddess worship aim to cultivate a personal and transformative connection with the divine. Rituals are seen as a form of direct communion, enabling practitioners to tap into the goddess's wisdom, guidance, and blessings. This contrasts with some prayer practices in Abrahamic religions, where the emphasis may be on seeking intercession or divine favor rather than co-creating with the divine.

Additionally, goddess rituals often embrace the empowerment of the individual. Rather than a hierarchical relationship where the practitioner is subordinate, rituals aim to invoke the inherent divine spark within each person. This empowerment aligns with the goddess's archetype as a source of strength, wisdom, and nurturing support. In Abrahamic prayers, the emphasis may be on submission to a higher authority.

While Abrahamic prayer rituals are often framed within the context of religious doctrines and established traditions, goddess worship allows for a more eclectic and personal approach to magical rituals. Practitioners are encouraged to craft rituals that resonate with their unique spiritual journey, fostering a sense of authenticity and individual expression.

In essence, the magical rituals of goddess worship and the prayer rituals of Abrahamic religions diverge in their approach, reflecting the distinct theological perspectives and paradigms of immanence and transcendence. Goddess worship invites participants into a dynamic and participatory relationship with the divine, emphasizing personal experience, creativity, and co-creation in magical rituals.

For practitioners of Goddess worship, "I walk with the Goddess" is a profound metaphor that encapsulates a personal and intimate connection with the divine feminine. It signifies a journey of spiritual exploration and alignment with the energies and wisdom of the Goddess.

The metaphor suggests a continuous companionship with the divine, emphasizing a sense of partnership and collaboration in navigating life's journey. Walking with the Goddess implies seeking guidance, drawing strength, and participating in a co-creative relationship with the sacred feminine.

In Christian traditions, followers may express their devotion to Jesus by saying, "I walk with Jesus." This metaphor reflects a commitment to a life guided by Christian principles and teachings. Walking with Jesus signifies a discipleship and a conscious effort to emulate the qualities and virtues demonstrated by Jesus Christ. It implies a daily journey of faith, incorporating Christ's teachings into one's actions, decisions, and interactions with others.

In Islam, a similar sentiment might be expressed as "I walk with Mohammad." This metaphor symbolizes a commitment to following the example set by the Prophet Mohammad and adhering to the teachings of Islam.

Walking with Mohammad implies living in accordance with the values and principles outlined in the Quran and the Hadith. It signifies a spiritual journey marked by submission to the will of Allah and an effort to embody the virtues demonstrated by the Prophet Mohammad.

In essence, the metaphor of walking with the Goddess, Jesus, or Mohammad serves as a symbolic expression of a believer's dedication to their respective spiritual path. It conveys the idea of an ongoing journey, a conscious choice to align one's life with the teachings, virtues, and divine presence associated with the chosen deity or spiritual figure. The metaphor encapsulates the essence of a dynamic and evolving relationship between the individual and the sacred, shaping their beliefs, values, and actions along the way.

What do you think? Leave your thoughts in the comments; I would love to hear your feedback.

Remember, stay present and mindful.

Rev. Renee Sosanna Olson

Keybearer to the CoH

Founder of the Sanctuary of Hecate Brimo.

BY HER FIRES.COM