Witchy+ Swap #1 A Friendly Introduction

Many of us follow spiritual paths and religions that are considered unconventional or “alternative”. Yet, while practitioners may call themselves by different names and labels, while we have widely varied beliefs and ceremonies, different tools and practices, many of us would be comfortable sharing together in circle.

Witchy+ is the title of a series of swaps I look forward to hosting. My expectation is to share the topic from different creative perspectives: writing, ATCs, songs, prayers, recipes, spell-work and so on. The “+” in the title is to include those who don’t identify as “witch” but live a faith uncommon to the western mainstream, this includes those who have created their own relationship to Creator, or understand that energy in a different way; it includes those who know their Power and how to use it, as well as the “witchy-curious” and the baby witches just starting their journey.

Unfortunately, the socio-political climate we live in is quite stressful. So many of us are going through this alone, and a solitary path is not an easy one to maintain. The idea behind this series is to share and celebrate our beliefs and practices in ways that are fun, creative and respectful, and hopefully, encourage each other to deepen our work or practices for our own benefit, the benefit of others and that of all of existence.

These swaps are created conscious that there are boundaries and limitations to the sharing of these beliefs. If there is anything you feel you cannot share- DON’T. But don’t let that stop you from participating and enjoying the benefit of fellowship! There are always events and activities that are public as well as witchy-adjacent activities we can share. And many of these swaps coming up will allow you to share as much as you feel comfortable sharing.

If anyone has any ideas, or would like to open this swap to International players, I’m open for suggestions, so feel free to message me here on SB.

Here is the first swap!

Witchy+ A Friendly Introduction

Some of us have come to our Paths by accident, others are part of a lineage (blood-related or not), some feel they have been “called” to their practices by Spirit and yet others have created a path guided by circumstance or synchronicity. Some of us have been practicing since childhood having inherited our ways and others arrived seeking healing, wholeness or acceptance. Some of us are just curious…

What's your story?

You’ll have one partner to write to and share your story with, as best you can, within the boundaries you define. Here are some questions you may like to expand on:

How did you come to your beliefs? What are your beliefs overall? How did you arrive to your Spiritual Path as you express it today? How has your practice changed/evolved, over time, practice and study? What’s your favorite part about your beliefs/practices? Do you belong to a coven/group/fellowship or are you a solitary practitioner? Do you have a title, or a label specific to your culture/practice?

This is not a list for you to answer but more of an inspiration to get you started. Imagine you are joining a circle of practitioners, people you know are open to accepting you and your ways, How would you introduce yourself? What would you share? Then go from there!

Swap Requirements:

-This is a writing swap, so make sure you spend some time writing. -Handwritten or printed are both acceptable. -To meet requirements you’ll send your partner a minimum of 2 pages of writing (1 sheet has 2 pages). -Sheets must be 6x9 in (15x23 cm) or larger. If you use the smaller size or do a note card, definitely send 2 sheets/2 sides written. -Feel free to decorate the pages, but it’s not required. And it will not be counted towards your two page minimum.
-Make sure to write the swap name and your user name in your letter so you can get rated! -Rate your partner appropriately as soon as you get your swap! -You don’t have to like/agree with what you got, as long as you got something on time and meeting requirements. -Per Swap-bot FAQ: “I got my stuff and it met posted swap requirements (5 points) I got my stuff, but it didn't meet the posted swap requirements (3 points) I never got anything (1 point)”

Participation requirements:

• Swappers will require a thoroughly filled profile and recent activity on the site, especially as the swap nears. -If you have low ratings, even an old one, you need to reach out to me on SB with the understanding that an explanation will not guarantee participation. However, not reaching our will guarantee no participation. -I’ll review accounts and check my swap-bot email before assigning partners and remove anyone who signed up, doesn’t meet the requirements of the swap AND has not reached out to me on their own. -Please keep in mind that these actions are only what I can do and does not guarantee your swap partner will send your goodies. -If you don’t get your swap, reach out to your partner to resolve it first. Give them the benefit of the doubt and a reasonable amount of time to respond. Inclement weather and natural disasters don’t always make the national news, and personal issues are rampant among us all, so offer some grace. A “reasonable amount of time” is a week or two, in my book. And that can be extended if there is good communication, but you do you, Boo…If you don’t get a response after a reasonable amount of time, then rate them a one. -I CANNOT angel swaps. Participate at your own risk.