Power Over

We all carry power which impacts others and our world.

Whether one is praying, participating in intentional ritual, taking other action, or simply thinking thoughts, others or energies around us or them, can be impacted.

One thing that is important to know when using your power is what is helping and what is not.

In general, I would say that prayer is positive.

In my experience, the best kind of prayer is gratitude and asking for wisdom or help for self or others. This help could be good health, personal balance, protection, blessing, etc.

I feel it should not involve specific others acting as you would prefer. This goes into the zone of “power over.”

Power over means “I want my child to get good grades” or even “be happy.”

Power over means “Please make him (or her) love me.”

More extreme examples of power over are wishing or causing harm to come to others.

These hopes and wishes and actions are controlling of the destiny or lives of others.

The person you perceive as bad or negative may be on the verge of healing or a realization that will move him/her forward in a positive way. Or you may not know everything about them. They may carry heavy burdens or carry deep injuries within.

We do not know the path of another in this life. Our idea of what is best may not be what is best for another. Perhaps our child has an amazing destiny, and the hardship or challenge they face today provides a lesson that they need to arrive in their future as they must.

A better prayer would be to ask for the wisdom and ability to assist them navigate this situation.

Perhaps the specific sweetheart you wish for is not what will further your path in the best way. Another may be just around the corner who will lead you forward toward your best future. Or perhaps s/he will introduce you to something or someone that will bring you to harm.

A better prayer would be to ask for patience and discernment in finding someone you can share your life with.

At one point in my life, on my spiritual path, I became interested in what it meant to be a Witch. I knew that those who were persecuted in Europe several hundred years ago have been called Witches, and that they were in truth people who practiced Earth-based spirituality that were undesirable by those in power.

I read some books and met some people that identified in this way. I became familiar with the terms White Witch and Black Witch. I came to understand that White Witches were essentially healers of self/others and lovers of the Earth. I met a few people who were or knew others who identified as Black Witches. These people sought power that they could use to make things as they wished, attempting to control and manipulate others to gain money and power and “love” – sometimes actually to bring others to harm.

Over time I came to be uncomfortable with this designation of “Witch,” and to steer clear of it. I did not want to identify myself in a way that was vague in regards to calling forth wellbeing or harm.

Unless asked, I do not involve myself in wishing, acting, or even praying on behalf of others’ lives.

I hope to write more about power. We all have it.

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