This state of affairs isn't necessary something to fret about-one can expect a bit of weirdness to ensue whenever ignorance and fear are in the mix. In a way, ill-conceived popular notions about ghosts and Witches serve us. We're remind of the fact that Witches serve us. We're reminded of the fact that Witches and spirits are meant to walk hand in hand, as ambassadors for the living and the dead, and as friends. As Witches, we're sensitive to the spirits. We're aware of them and we're able to connect with them. We're able to remain calm and coolheaded instead of running away in fright.
These abilities give us a duty to be there for our spirit friends when they need us. If it's indeed true that the dead wander in great numbers on Halloween night, then there are definitely going to be plenty of ghosts out there that could use a helping hand, whether it's in the form of communicating
a message to or from a loved one, or finding liberation from spiritually hindering earthly bonds. Why not use your special statue as a spirit liaison to make this Samhain a night to remember? Here's a magickal formula to try:
Helping Hand Powder
3 parts marigold blossoms, dried and crushed
2 parts white sage, dried and crushed
1 part graveyard dirt taken from around the roots of a large tree
Mix this blend on Halloween night in the proximity of a graveyard or haunted dwelling. Place a round mirror in the bottom of a bowl. Light a candle and hold the bowl so that the flame is reflected in the mirror. With your wand, trace a circle around the bowl, making thirteen complete rotations. As you do so, chant:
Life has gone out, flame of spirit burns bright,
All can shine on this Samhain night.
Spirits around, come play, if you can,
Come dance through this mirror I hold in my hand.
Next, put the herbs and the dirt in the bowl on top of the mirror. Using your fingertips, crush the mixture into a finely textured powder. As you do so, chant:
Magickal marigold, sage, and earth,
Embody the dead and give them birth.
By the light of the Moon, I charge this powder
To invite the ghosts and lend them my power.
Rub the powder on your palms or face, then hold out a friendly hand to welcome any wandering ghosts to join you. This powder attracts the attention of spirits and helps facilitate cooperative interactions between the living and the dead.
-Melanie Marquis
