A Simple Path:Journey of a Hedgewitch

*The Hedgewitch lives in the space between the Village and the Forest. Between the mundane and the magical. S/He lives with a foot in both worlds.
This column is dedicated to the Hedgewitches of the planet earth.

Supporting our Warriors

Early this year, I decided that America’s war in the Middle East had gone on long enough without my participation.

Up to this point I had been doing the best I could to will it to end, and that’s about it. Mostly, just feeling sad.

But I have been living a life of mindful gratitude, and in so doing, have discovered that the next logical step in my process is to mindfully serve.

I did some research, and found out that resources for pagan military personnel are virtually non-existent, and whatever they do to enhance their practice, it is almost exclusively on their own.

I found there were many service-men and -women who were in need of every sort of pagan supply. From incense and candles to altar items and books. Always books! (We pagans and our libraries, lol!)

So, I decided to organize an effort to send donated items to soldiers stationed overseas.

We have collected cds, cards, books, candles, herbs, oils, resins, charcoal, wind chimes, art supplies, calendars and almanacs, altar adornments, hundreds of sage smudge bundles, and so much more from folks who have heard about the pagan soldiers, and who have opened their hearts, cupboards and wallets, and donated to the Cause.

Folks who own shops have added a “collection” jar to the front of their store, and ask, if patrons wish, to donate their change to the jar, for shipping costs to get packages sent.

In a time of economic uncertainty, I have seen the outpouring of generosity and genuine care and blessing. People have given from themselves and the result is so precious. When I hear back from a soldier who has received a package, who is now able to create meaningful sacred space, in an environment where the idea of peace and harmony is woefully scarce, it touches me in a way beyond description. We helped that person. We enhanced their life and allowed them to keep their faith alive in a special and personal way..

I encourage you to find a way to serve. It has made brought such meaning to my life, and I am honored to continue the work. There are so many ways to serve.

Clean out the cupboard and donate gently used items to charity. Simplify your own life, while adding resources for someone else.

Write a letter, and say thanks to a soldier for their sacrifice.

Spend an hour with the lady across the street, who recently lost her husband.

Organize a fundraiser for the worthy charity of your choice.

Or sit quietly with a candle and add your energy to any one of the myriad causes which are already in progress..

We can all find a way to help, and I am here to tell you, it will transform your life.

Brightest Blessings of Summer’s Bounty!!!

author: Willow Winterborne