Chapter 1: The Impact of Isolation

The COVID-19 pandemic undoubtedly disrupted many lives, including mine. I acknowledge the profound effects it has had worldwide and on my personal journey, leading to challenges beyond my control. Acceptance has become my way of coping with these changes.

Yet, amid the turmoil, I've discovered reasons for gratitude. The solitude and stillness that accompanied the pandemic provided me with the opportunity to reflect deeply on my life. It enabled me to confront those aspects I cannot change, allowing me to focus on what I could influence to become my best self.

Before the pandemic unfolded, I was involved in Alcoholics Anonymous and navigating a transitional phase in my recovery. During this time, my sponsor suggested I explore Paganism, particularly Druidry. Although I had heard the term "Pagan" previously, I was unaware of its significance. It turned out that my sponsor identified as Wiccan, which sparked an avalanche of questions from me.

Raised in a non-denominational Christian household, I was subjected to religious practices that my mother deemed essential for our family's reputation. We attended church every Sunday, participated in Bible studies, and engaged in youth group activities. Summer vacations were spent at Christian camps, including one memorably named "Id-Ra-Ha-Je," which humorously suggested a preference for Jesus over fun.

I also attended a private Christian school during my middle school years, where I was required to take Bible classes and memorize verses, often leading to creative cheating on tests! Daily prayers and chapel attendance were mandatory, and failure to adhere to the dress code could result in detention. This environment made me realize I didn't resonate with the beliefs being enforced upon me.

Reflecting on my upbringing, I see the extent to which religion was imposed on me, stifling my freedom and childhood joy. I recall a time before my family's religious shift, when I was a curious, creative child exploring nature, collecting bones, rocks, and various treasures from the earth.

As I delved into Paganism, I felt an awakening. Nature-based spiritual paths resonated with my soul, prompting extensive research. I was amused to discover the similarities between Christianity and various Pagan practices, including Witchcraft. For the first time, I found the liberty to believe in multiple deities—or none—without fear of retribution.

My newfound interests flourished in areas such as Tarot, pendulums, and various forms of divination. I began exploring energies, crystals, numerology, astrology, and even spirit communication. Meditation became a part of my journey, albeit a challenging one, and I found joy in conversing with my plants!

The pandemic led me to a crucial practice known as Shadow Work, which parallels the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. I recognized emotions I had buried, which were never addressed in my recovery process. This journey required digging deep, confronting uncomfortable feelings, and reevaluating aspects of myself that no longer served me.

Through rigorous honesty, I've experienced profound personal growth. My life feels transformed, as if a part of me is struggling to emerge. The old version of myself is fading, making space for my true self to shine.

The pause created by COVID-19 was a blessing in disguise, facilitating a much-needed shift in my life. There is still much to learn about myself and the world around me, but my journey begins here.

I believe in respecting diverse beliefs. I share my experiences not to dismiss others but to express my truth. What positive changes have you experienced during the pandemic? When was the last time you paused to gaze at the moon?

Love, Quinn

Chapter 2: Discovering Witchcraft

In this segment, we explore the intricacies of witchcraft and its historical context, highlighting the significance of these practices in modern spirituality.

The first video titled "1/2 The Art of Witchcraft - Secret Knowledge" delves into the foundational principles of witchcraft, providing insights into its practices and philosophies.

The second video, "Matthew Goode And Teresa Palmer Talk About The New Sky Series 'A Discovery Of Witches'," offers an engaging discussion about contemporary depictions of witchcraft in media and its cultural implications.