Am I doin' it right?

[poz]

How do you know if you cast a circle right? or if what you invoke is really there? Some times I can't tell

[Mairwen]

If you do, and it is, then you know. There's no doubt. If you doubt, then you're probably doing something wrong, or doing something that's not right for you.

[Dagda Moon~Lily]

I've only cast a circle a couple of times, but for me, it seems that there is a totally different feel to the area. :D

[Rick]

The first several times I was in circle, I was acutely aware of all the energies, the presences, etc. Later, I guess it became a little more routine, or comfortable, or whatever.

Just be very still in your spirit. Don't worry about it happening, just let it happen. It may this time, or next time. Some things can be forced, some can't.

Relax. :sunny:

[Sunday's Child]

What happens if you don't close your circle when you are done with the spell or ritual?

[Mairwen]

Well, in my tradition, we don't cast circles all that often. However, when we do, we don't "dismiss" them, either. They'll dissipate on their own. ;)

[Edited to add: Gwyddons do not "do" spells or have volumes of spells nor teach spells to their students.]

[Sunday's Child]

Meriwen, where can I learn more about your tradition? By reading the books you suggested?

[Mairwen]

*trying to remember where and when I suggested books*

http://pagan.drak.net/gwyddon

[Eudaimonia]

As with everything else, it requires faith. Sat night, two friends and myself will be casting a circle, along with other rituals. When others believe, it's easier for your heart to believe.

[mol]

Another good thing to think about is...

If you Know the Circle is there.

It is.

[Semele]

If you build it they will come!!

8O

[Revelation]

Sometimes, you won't know.
As with anything, sometimes we do doubt our abilities and talents. Not everyone "senses" energy. I don't, for example. I've been in many, many groups hwere everyone was amazed at the "Strenght of the circle" or the "presence of the gods" or what have you, and I dont feel these things.

When I cast a circle, on the very rare occassion that I do, I don't *know* that the circle is there. I have to have faith that it is. I can't sense the circle. THat's now how I"m wired.

So dont feel bad if you don't "know". Contrary to what others have suggested, not all of us are blessed with the strength of character to know what we cannot feel. Sometimes, all you can do it have faith that you've done it right, and that will have to be good enough.

[Astraea]

Semele, you cracked me up!
I no longer cast the circle in my practise. But I used to during the time I considered myself a Wiccan. For me, it was a matter of refining a circle casting ritual that was comfortable to me.
In my opinion, focus and confidence are key. I think most practitioners will tell you these concepts are important to your craft. If you are comfortable with the rituals you perform, you will then be able to refine your power to focus, and then will have confidence in your abilities. Get comfortable with a casting ritual and you will have no doubts about your abilities.

[SamuraiInBlack]

My personal question on this matter stems from lacking the books and other resources. Tomorrow morning when I'm not so tired I'll probably try to look for some online resources.

What does the circle do? Is it important for a beginner or is it important always? I've understood that most people that start out begin by casting the circle.

And then over time as they progress they don't cast the circle anymore. As if they don't need to. That often leaves me confused.

[Mairwen]

I'm from a Tradition which casts circles at only certain times for certain things ~ not for everything like a lot of Wicca do. Our circles are used for Initiations, mostly, as they symbolize the Womb of the Goddess, and don't serve/have the same purpose as a Wiccan circle would.

[Mairwen]

Here's another take on what Elm said. In our Tradition, we never, never undraw a circle (even though we have directions to do so, for whatever reason) nor "dismiss" anything within it. Why? Because in our circles, we're one big family, the Tuatha of Kerridwen ~ and that encompasses us, our Guardians, our Elements, our Gods, and whomever/whatever else is present. Besides, we like having these folks and energies present at our study sessions and God Feasts ~ and they enjoy them too. It would be more than rude to ask them to leave before they had a chance to join in on the fun! 8O

[Myst]

In the beginning you may not be ready to really sense the energies when casting a circle or doing other magickal work. Basically, if you're like me, there's still this barrier - common teachings from school and elders that basically teach this stuff is make believe and you're nutty if you see, hear, or feel things that can't be explained scientifically.

So if you're happy casting the circle go ahead; trust that whatever you do, as long as you have good intent and a clear focus, will work in the right way - even if the right way isn't what you've planned! ;)

[ladyrowan]

Revelation,
was very interested to read your reply.
I also do not sense these things, but do have a strong faith that they are there. I'm quite happy to leave it at that.
People tell me that i will, but after being a pagan for approx 30 years, not sure that things will change for me that much now!

Only things i feel are good and bad 'atmosphere', and can feel when my dad is around me.:)

[Myst]

ladyrowan : I was surprised by your comment.

All my friends are telling me I'll hit a "breaking point" or something, and if you haven't maybe I won't too.

Interesting

[ladyrowan]

Hi Willow only just seen your answer!
Don't think you won't just because i haven't, everyone's different and i'm sure if you're actively seeking it, you will find it! :sunny:

[Mairwen]

Originally posted by Mairwen
Here's another take on what Elm said. In our Tradition, we never, never undraw a circle (even though we have directions to do so, for whatever reason) nor "dismiss" anything within it.


Maybe I should edit this to add: That's how WE do it, but I'm sure there are some Gwyddons who do uncast and "dismiss", since there are directions to do so. We just find it rude and "unseemly".

[goldenwind]

How do you know if you cast a circle right? or if what you invoke is really there? Some times I can't tell
all it takes is a little bit of imagination,friend
if you see it/affirm it to be then so shall it be :shift: