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Magic and Witchcraft consists of training yourself to be orderly and organized in both mind and actions. It is a learning process that is designed to grow continuously as you practice and learn more about the universe around you and the inner workings of the mind. The most appropriate place to keep a record of what you do and learn is in your own Book of Shadows.
A Book of Shadows is not so much a 'Witches Bible' as it is a 'Witches Diary and Study Guide'. It is the one personal tool that you use to keep notes on what spells you have used, what events have happened in your workings and things to investigate next. Done correctly your Book of Shadows will be the ultimate reference manual as you learn your Craft.
As with any of your Craft tools, making your Book of Shadows yourself is the best method for inserting your own energies and aura into the project. Although you will not be required to learn how to pulp trees for paper or preserve and tan skins of whatever kind for your cover, there are many ways to customize your personal book. One can merely use the bound blank page books available although starting with a three hole ring binder will serve one better as time progresses. This way you will be able to add pages as needed as well as reorganize them along the way.
Since your Book of Shadows will contain information on a number of topics, it is suggested you begin by creating various sections. One may be for keeping and adding the words for specific spells you have used or are working on. Another section may be a literal diary of what you work on and the results. Having a place to keep notes on research is useful as you learn more about the workings of magic and the Craft. The ultimate reasoning behind such organization is for ease of finding the information you need quickly and efficiently.
There is no law that says you can have only one Book of Shadows. You may wish to go to the extra effort of making and decorating one specifically for the aesthetics of using during your spell work. Painting and calligraphy of specific spells and incantations is useful for firmly placing the words into your memory and add to the emotional energy buildup as you work your craft.
Your Book of Shadows can be as elaborate or simple as you desire. This is, after all, a visual extension of your personality and resolve. It will contain a record of your personal achievements as well as information on potential failures and research on improving your results. That your Book of Shadows is a personal account is why it is important to keep it secure from the prying eyes of those who have no good intent towards you. If you work with a group, it may be best if you create a new Book that is just for the general use of the coven.
An added advantage to keeping a record of your work is that occasionally reviewing the enclosed information will disclose your advancement in the Craft and give you new insights into your own self as you progress along your path. Even if you ultimately evolve along a totally unforeseen path in your magical growth, having a record of where you came from and what led you on is invaluable for expanding your understanding of yourself.
As well as writing and researching on the paranormal and occult phenomena that intersect our reality, Douglas Mefford can also be found helping spread literature to the world at Bell, Book & Candle Publications or hanging out at his bungalow in Greenwoods Village.
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