Guidelines for a Magickal Life By: Branwen        They incorporate ideas from Wicca as well as other traditions, but I do not think of them in terms of those traditions. For me, they are a mirror to which I can hold my actions, the reflection of which will tell me if I am being true to my path.   It is not sufficient to say you are a "witch" or to practice magick. You must also live as a witch.   Do not look for excuses for why you cannot follow the path.   Accept responsibility for your failures as well as your successes.   Celebrate the phases of the Moon and the changing of seasons. Do so not because it is part of a ritual calendar, but rather because these acts keep you in tune with Nature and Spirit.   Honor Spirit or the Goddess, but recognize that the spirits of all entities in the Universe are equal.   All life is sacred; all acts are ritual. Your actions should reflect your own divinity and that of all beings.   Achieving balance with the Earth is essential for a magickal life.   Responsibility toward the environment and the Earth's inhabitants should be evident in the activities of your daily life.   Do not take more from the Earth than you need to live. We are mere visitors here; the Earth is eternal.   Wealth and fame are not necessary ingredients for a magickal life.   Know that the joy of life is a gift. Know it as a cat knows it, in his bones and blood.   Power is a sacred gift and must be used wisely and with humility. Pride in ones power will ultimately cause failure.   Power should never be used to prove your ability or in any form of competition with others.   Power should be used to create happiness, not sorrow.   Be certain of your intentions when performing any act of magick. Magick is neither good nor evil, positive nor negative.   The intentions of the magician determine the path it will take.   Act always with honor and accept responsibility for your actions. It is honorable to protect your loved ones, but be willing to accept the consequences of your actions with honor as well.   Words are sacred, use them wisely.   There is honor in truth.   Your word is sacred. Others must know that they can depend on you absolutely.   Learn to forgive yourself and others.   Knowledge is the foundation of the Craft. Never believe that you know enough.   Teach those who truly wish to learn, but take care that you do not teach those who only wish to serve themselves or harm others.   Teach the Craft with pride, but not to enhance your own pride.   Recognize that even the least knowledgeable of students may offer you lessons you need.   Live your life in a way that is above reproach to the rest of the world. In doing so, you will bring honor to all witches.   Do not be drawn into the feelings of hate and anger expressed by others.   Be able to look into a mirror and be truly unafraid.