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The phenomenon of streaming without garnering an audience is perplexing. Despite my efforts to stream various content, such as "Fallout 76" and co-working/study sessions, I have not attracted viewers. I engage with other streamers by participating in their live chats and Discord communities, yet this interaction is not reciprocated. My sixteen followers do not acknowledge my streams, raising the question of their purpose in following me. This situation presents a boundary tha

Have you ever found yourself in a conversation where the other person seems to know everything and you feel lost? You're not alone. Many people experience discomfort when faced with someone who possesses more knowledge, leading to feelings of insecurity or defensiveness. This tension can transform simple discussions into challenging encounters. In this post, we will examine these situations, explore the psychological dynamics at play, and discuss practical strategies for enha

Disagreements are a natural part of human interaction. They can happen in casual chats with friends or intense debates in public forums. Yet, a common reaction to disagreement is silence. Why do people often withdraw or stop responding when faced with opposing views? This post explores the psychological and social dynamics at play. We will look deeply into the reasons behind this silence and provide insights on how to handle disagreements more effectively. The Nature of Disag

Grimoire magic captivates many with its enchanting portrayal in books and movies. These texts, often labeled as powerful manuals for summoning supernatural forces, hold a storied place in our culture. However, the truth about grimoire magic often reveals a more complex and less mystical reality. In this post, we will examine why grimoire magic is often dismissed as more fiction than fact, dispelling common myths while illuminating the true nature of this practice. Understandi

In the evolving landscape of spirituality, the intersection of modern paganism and Christianity has generated significant discussion. Many individuals who identify as modern pagans are increasingly reinterpreting and integrating aspects of Christian traditions into their own practices. This trend, while intriguing, raises serious concerns about cultural respect and the integrity of beliefs. Appropriating elements from a faith that is not one’s own can lead to misunderstanding

Kabbalah, a mystical and esoteric tradition rooted in Jewish thought, is gaining significant attention in modern spirituality. Many people are intrigued by its teachings and practices. But a critical question remains: must one be Jewish or Christian to practice Kabbalah authentically? This blog post explores the importance of religious identity in Kabbalah practice, delving into its historical context, spiritual significance, and the ramifications of engaging with this profou

Wicca, often marketed as a modern and nature-based religion, has captured attention and curiosity in recent years. Yet, beneath its colorful exterior, many critics highlight flaws that challenge its value as a serious belief system. This post aims to explore these shortcomings, shining a light on the reasons some consider Wicca a waste of time, while advocating for more substantial alternatives. The Shallow Foundations of Wicca Wicca is fundamentally eclectic. It pulls variou

A.E. Waite stands as a pivotal figure in the world of mysticism and the occult. His work has not only shaped the understanding of tarot and spiritual practices during his lifetime but continues to define the approach of modern practitioners. This post explores the reasons why A.E. Waite is hailed as the greatest of all occultists. We will dive into his perspectives, teachings, and the legacy that remains strong in today’s mystic community. The Life of A.E. Waite Arthur Edward

Freemasonry has long been a subject of intrigue, mystery, and controversy. At the heart of this complex landscape lies JSM Ward, a figure whose influence on the Masonic tradition cannot be ignored. While Ward's contributions are noteworthy, they come with significant concerns that merit a thorough examination. This post seeks to uncover the complexities of JSM Ward's legacy, stressing the potential risks associated with his ideas within Freemasonry and beyond. The Enigmatic F

Gerald Gardner, often called the father of modern Wicca, has greatly influenced contemporary witchcraft. His writings and practices have encouraged many to embark on the spiritual path of Wicca. However, his work has also attracted notable criticism. In this post, we will critically examine the controversies surrounding Gardner's theories and practices. We'll explore the views of scholars and practitioners, highlight misconceptions in his teachings, and maintain a thoughtful

I love the entry for Evelyn Underhill in the Kids Encyclopedia: Evelyn Underhill facts for kids Kids Encyclopedia Facts Quick facts for kids Evelyn Underhill Born 6 December 1875 Wolverhampton , England Died 15 June 1941 (aged 65) London, England Occupation Novelist, writer, mystic Genre Christian mysticism, spirituality Notable works Mysticism Evelyn Underhill (born December 6, 1875 – died June 15, 1941) was an English writer. She was known for her many books about religion

Dion Fortune remains a significant figure in the early 20th-century occult movement, captivating many with her ideas on magic and mysticism. However, if you take a closer look at her teachings, you may find that they might not be as groundbreaking or beneficial as often claimed. Let’s explore why investing time in studying Dion Fortune could be a less-than-rewarding endeavor. The Myth of Originality A key concern is the originality of Fortune's work. Much of her writing is la

Thelema, a spiritual philosophy founded by Aleister Crowley in the early 20th century, has attracted many followers seeking meaning and freedom. However, behind its intriguing ideas lies a pressing issue: selective adherence. This occurs when practitioners choose only the aspects of Thelema that appeal to them while ignoring its more challenging or controversial teachings. This post critically explores the implications of selective adherence within Thelema and highlights the

So I now have the Neophyte ritual of Waite's Independent & Rectified Rite and I'm in the process of transcribing it from the digital scans provided by Freemason's Hall. That will be a followed by a detailed analysis and then a comparison with (off the top of my head): The 1899 version featured in Torrens. To the best of my knowledge there isn't anything earlier that is easily accessible. The Regardie/Stella Matutina version that we all know and love. The version from Waite's

So it's a gloomy Tuesday morning so I thought I would turn to the blog, as a displacement activity for anything else that needs doing - and that includes any things, including gardening, laundry etc. etc. So I am still working on the Evelyn Underhill biography, although it has morphed into just a fairly specific part of her life - the part which excites me the most. I could spend months on her childhood, but her school days don't really define who she became, and everything p