by Lynn Schwalbe-Larson

Created on: July 25, 2008

Do you believe in witchcraft? That ancient art of focusing energy to intentionally influence reality? Most cultures have a name for its practitioners, be it witch, bruja, strega, sorcerer. As many definitions of witchcraft exist as names, depending which country you're in and who you're talking to. In legend and fiction, popping up anywhere from modern culture to passages in certain translations of the bible, are stories and definitions of what a witch and witchcraft are.

In bookstores throughout the world, you'll find at least one shelf, if not more, full of books on witchcraft; its rich history, practical guides to learn the craft, books describing various types, personal anecdotes by those practicing the craft, even books about herbs and all their many uses. There is a wealth of written word pertaining to the subject.

Critics have called it "an absurd practice" that exists only in the minds of people who have no grip on reality. Critics call practitioners "twisted", "idiotic" and worse yet "evil". They present images of black-cloaked nasty women (Or, gasp! Naked!), standing before images of the devil, voicing horrible incantations, and calling up demons to do their bidding. Do I believe in that type of witchcraft? No. That's Hollywood witchcraft, far far from the truth of the matter.

The witchcraft that I believe in is practiced by people who use their gifts to help others, to heal, to provide services that enable others to receive guidance and draw closer to the divine. They use their gifts to better their own lives and to gain understanding of the workings of nature.

Magic is a tool, neither good nor bad unto itself. Like a hammer that can be used to create or destroy, the results of magic depend on the one practicing it and their intent.

Does it exist only in the minds of the people who use it? Again, matter of opinion. I tend to think about the fact that all living things have the same quarks and electrons as do the non-living, such as rocks and water; that matter and energy are not separate. The human mind is included in this, and thoughts create energy. This energy, also called the bioenergetic field, and the electromagnetic field, can be focused with intent and effect one's surroundings. That is what spell-work is all about.

There is a tired argument that states if magic and witchcraft are real, why doesn't it appear in the news? Why doesn't it cause an uproar?

Magic is subtle; it is not fireballs bursting from ones fingertips (though that would be fun!) There are no obvious dramatic scenes the nightly news would be interested in. Bias against witches and tons of misinformation still run rampant and therefore many witches prefer to remain unnoticed and live their lives peacefully, privately.

Many people "shoot down" the idea of magic, but not too long ago, many pooh-poohed as well the idea of the existence of life so small you can't see it with your naked eye. The point is, quoting a high number of people who don't believe in something, does not prove it doesn't exist.

I believe witchcraft exists. I believe in the witches who fight injustice and hate, who support freedom for all people, and tolerance for different spiritual beliefs. Who use their craft to guide positive energy to where it is needed most, who co-create with the divine creator of all. Who do not seek publicity or fame, but quietly work behind the scenes.

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