Some believe we choose our life’s challenges and gifts from a cosmic shelf before diving into the earthly realm. Emerging into this jarring world, we cry out, our memories of chosen paths hidden by a mystical veil. Yet, echoes linger, a relentless itch beneath our skin, signaling hidden oddities and unique gifts aching for release. Something beckons us into Waking the Witch.
- Part I: The Alchemy of Identity
- Part II: The Deviant Path
- Part III: Through the Fire
- Part IV: Echoes & Silence
- Part V: Planting the Seeds of Sanctuary
- From Shadows to Light: Waking the Witch
- Enter the House, Enrich the Coven
Waking the Witch Within
A Witch is born from this necessity – answering the urgent whispers of the unseen, harnessing raw intuitive power, and rebelling against spiritual conventions. We, the summoned, rise for times like these. My journey, perhaps not unlike your own, has braved pandemonium, endured tears, and celebrated triumphs. It’s a tapestry woven from mystical insights, heart-wrenching losses, and unyielding resilience.
Invitation to the Covenstead
So, let me part the veil of secrecy and welcome you into my sanctuary, my covenstead. I offer you a place at my table and a cup filled with the brew of our shared experiences. As the steam waltzes between us, carrying tales from my soul to yours, may you find comfort, friendship, and a reflection of your hidden journey.
Inside the House of Blackthorn
Now, dear witch, behold the House of Blackthorn, a sanctuary crafted from ancient whispers and modern dreams. Here, you’ll unravel my essence, understand my steadfast vision, and witness the seeds of a future I fiercely nurture. But first, allow me to unveil the pivotal revelation that forever altered my path.
Unveiling the Witch’s Secret
Are you prepared to unearth the truth at every witch’s core? This key, once turned, could unlock your profoundest awakening or open a door you’ve long feared to tread.
Part I: The Alchemy of Identity
Embracing the Witch Within
In the dance of shadows and light, I discovered my true self. It wasn’t about finding a place in the world but creating it. This is the alchemy of my identity, the forging of a spirit within the furnace of societal alienation and self-exploration.
Embarking on a Path of Self-Discovery
From shadows to light, this mantra has not just whispered to me; it has roared through my veins. It’s been my constant companion, guiding me from an obscured existence into the clarity of self-realization. Far from spaces of fear, the shadows served as my sanctuary, cradling unexplored potential within me, waiting for its moment in the sun.
Overcoming Labels and Embracing Identity
In my youth, I didn’t merely dwell in the shadows; I thrived in their embrace, feeling like an eternal outsider. My skin, a tapestry of Mexican and Indigenous heritage, set me apart, as did the hushed labels that society carelessly threw my way — “gay,” “different,” “other.” Poverty wove itself into my narrative, alongside a physical appearance that seemingly granted others free rein to cast judgment. It was amidst these trials that I forged my identity, embracing my truth: I was a Witch.
The Struggle Against Invisibility and Silence
My story isn’t a plea for sympathy but a bid for understanding. Each of us carries a unique narrative, shaping our worldview. My script, written in the ink of resistance, pitted me against a father lost to alcohol, who reflected his pain onto me. I wasn’t just the silent victim; I was the boy who questioned, who challenged, who demanded respect — and found blame instead. Confusion reigned in me. Why did my cries for decency provoke anger?
A Leap of Faith Into the Unknown
My rebellion wasn’t confined to earthly conflicts; it pierced the spiritual realm. The Pentecostal fire-and-brimstone sermons offered no refuge, pushing me instead toward a force they would deem heretical. In this ‘Devil of the Witches,’ I found sanctuary, an escape into something profound, liberating, and unequivocally mine.
A Divine Encounter at the Crossroads
My true awakening — my divine epiphany — erupted under a sky ablaze with twilight’s colors. There, in my grandmother’s haven, shielded by orchards and silent crossroads, the world’s cacophony receded. In the ensuing stillness, a mysterious flame flickered to life, transforming before my eyes into divine femininity. In that moment of cosmic connection, when Hekate’s eyes met mine, a vortex of raw power affirmed my identity, my purpose, my path.
Finding Solace in the Cosmic
Isn’t it a familiar ache, this hunger for belonging? For a resonance that bridges the chasms between us, making us feel less alone in our turmoil? This universal quest has propelled me through tribulations and triumphs, guiding me from the fringes into my uncharted truth.
Extending a Hand in Unity
These trials have cemented an unwavering resolve within me: to forge a space where every voice amplifies, not fades; where every identity finds celebration, not suppression. Have you felt the earth-shattering jolt of transformation, where your inner world shifts, steering you towards your truth? Share these pivotal crossroads with us. Together, let’s craft a legacy of resilience and rebirth.
Part II: The Deviant Path
Crafting my own Witchery
In the chaos of struggle, a path cleared before me: The Old Gods reached out, and Witchcraft embraced me in a profound homecoming. This wasn’t a fleeting encounter; it was a relentless pursuit of knowledge that continues to this day. As I delved deeper into the dark arts, I felt a resurgence of life within me, an awakening. I wasn’t just studying; I was transforming, reclaiming the fragmented pieces of my identity.
Finding My Tribe in the Digital World
In the nascent days of social media, I found my tribe within Facebook’s burgeoning communities. We, the seekers and mystic souls, converged in groups dedicated to Paganism, Wicca, Witchcraft, and metaphysical exploration. Discussions were fiery, debates intense, and discord, inevitable.
Unveiling the Shadows
However, a troubling pattern emerged amidst the fervor. I noticed a palpable hesitance to delve into the ‘taboo,’ the shadowy topics left untouched in silence. But why were we, the truth-seekers, avoiding these realms? Our path in the Craft calls us to challenge norms, unveil hidden truths, and grow relentlessly.
Birth of the Deviant Voice
Driven by this realization, I ignited the flame of “Deviant Witchery” and became “The Deviant Witch,” a voice for the silenced topics and a beacon for unrestricted exploration.
Navigating Human Complexities
My mission steered me through tumultuous waters. I grappled with my flaws, learned about empathy and boundaries, and connected deeply with others. Some individuals became pillars in my life, while others departed, leaving behind lessons dressed as pain.
The Triumph and Turmoil of Creation
Co-authoring “The Deviant Grimoire” stands as a proud beacon during this storm. However, shadows trailed behind the success. I experienced the bitterness of fractured friendships and the sharp pang of betrayal, realizing that my spark attracted an audience with varied intentions.
Lost in the Spectacle
A harsh truth surfaced: my fiery passion often masqueraded as mere spectacle. I had slipped into a character of my own unintended creation. This revelation served as a crossroads, urging me to seek solace in introspection rather than conflict.
The Journey Inward
I chose healing, distancing myself from “The Deviant Witch” persona. As I ventured inward, the external world shifted. Applause turned to silence, and solitude wrapped around me, revealing the precariousness of finding worth in digital affirmations.
Awakening the Spell Within
In this silence, a revelation dawned on me. I was more than reflections of others’ expectations; I was an uncast spell, brimming with potential. This phase of silence was not an ending but a bridge to a realm where wisdom and authenticity reigned.
Weaving Wisdom from Wounds
Now, I stand poised to weave healing from scars, embracing my true identity as a witch, a healer, and, above all, a genuine spirit on a journey through light and shadow.
Part III: Through the Fire
Trials, Transformation, and Rebirth
Magic, much like transformation, doesn’t happen with a snap of the fingers. It’s a journey through the deepest parts of our souls, a deliberate unearthing. It requires sifting through the shadows, confronting the monsters that lay hidden, and sometimes acknowledging that we were the unrelentless storm in our own lives. For me, the unraveling began when the threads of my world started to fray.
A Toxic Fog
The poison of my work environment was a slow, creeping fog, suffocating me daily. Love, a supposed beacon of light, turned its back on me, retreating into the shadows because my identity as a Witch didn’t fit within the confines of conventional acceptability. Consequently, the sting of rejection was a familiar pain, yet it tore at freshly healed wounds.
New Love, New Challenges
However, life, in its unpredictable rhythm, ushered in a new love — a joy amidst chaos. Our connection, woven through daily conversations and shared dreams, was a message of hope. Nonetheless, the decision to move to Mississippi was not without its thorns. Imagine, a Witch rooted in the progressive-ish soil of Northern California transplanting himself in the deep south, an environment notorious for its harsh judgments and unwelcoming arms.
The Crucible of Mississippi
Mississippi wasn’t merely a challenge; it was a crucible. The land, rich with the weight of history, pressed down with a heaviness I hadn’t anticipated. Moreover, the people were an impenetrable wall of stares and whispers. Yet, the most heart-wrenching trial was watching the slow dance of death, as my partner’s mother withered before us. Consequently, her passing marked a rupture in our lives, a void that death left in its wake.
Confronting Mortality
Then came my confrontation with mortality, a jarring brush with the afterlife that left me reeling. Fighting to balance out in a sterile hospital room, I grappled with the fragility of existence. Accordingly, we had to leave Mississippi not long after I was released from the hospital. I mean, days. Our departure was a frantic escape, a caravan of broken hearts and shattered worlds journeying back to California — the prodigal Witch returning home.
Pandemic-Induced Isolation
But home was not as we left it. Significantly, the world was in the grip of a pandemic, an invisible storm altering the fabric of our society. I found myself numb, disconnected from a world caught in the throes of panic and isolation. Furthermore, my business, once a thriving organism, seemed to wither in this new world order. Even within the community, I felt like a ghost, visible only when convenient, yet hidden away like a shameful secret.
Cycle of Death and Rebirth
This cycle, drenched in the energy of death and rebirth, became my crucible. From the ashes of my old life, new insights emerged. I understood that existence is a series of seasons, each with its own lessons and purpose. Importantly, death ceased to be an end; it became a doorway, a transition into new dimensions of existence. Like a phoenix, I embraced the fires of transformation, emerging renewed and resilient.
Potantial in the Void
In the void, there’s potential for creation. It’s within this cosmic womb that we’re reborn, forged through trials into beings of newfound strength and wisdom. For in the tapestry of life and death, every thread is a story, a lesson, and a step towards becoming who we’re truly meant to be.
Part IV: Echoes & Silence
The Search for Authenticity and Value
As I emerged from the shadows of my journey, I sought to weave magic back into my life. With renewed vigor, I stepped into the light, creating content, gracing events, and sharing my voice on various platforms. Yet, the echoes of past disappointments lingered like a haunting melody. Commitments dissolved into silence, and promises evaporated, leaving a trail of ghosted opportunities and abandoned collaborations.
A Personal Reckoning
This wasn’t mere professional disillusionment; it was a personal reckoning. Standing firm in my truth, I advocated for inclusivity, challenged racism, and celebrated queerness in all its forms. My refusal to mute my convictions isolated me from those I believed were friends or sometimes self-referred allies. However, in that isolation, I found clarity. Each setback, each broken promise acted as a signpost, directing me towards a profound transformation.
Unyielding Efforts
Despite the universe’s signals, I persevered with familiar paths, pouring my soul into my Halloween Oracle. Nevertheless, the response was as disheartening as it was illuminating — eight copies sold. This was not a failure in number, but in the stark realization of standing alone amidst a sea of silent onlookers. It wasn’t the silence that disheartened me. Instead, it was the realization that my passion was burning at both ends, yielding only the ashes of exhaustion.
Questioning Community
Subsequently, I questioned the essence of support, of community. Was it merely about numbers, or was it something deeper, something scarcely reciprocated — a genuine connection? This introspection revealed a truth I could no longer ignore: I was bartering pieces of my soul for the mere illusion of belonging.
Embracing Self-Worth
But then, amidst the echoes and the silence, a powerful truth emerged: I am valuable. What I offer is something no one else can — my heart, my being, my Witch. This unique essence is irreplaceable and worthy of respect and recognition. Consequently, I’ve been learning to step into that power, to affirm myself not just as a practitioner of magic, but as a being of intrinsic worth.
Birth of a Sanctuary
And with this realization, a revelation dawned — it was time to shed the persona that tethered me. ‘The Deviant Witch’ had served its purpose, but I, Michael Blackthorn, needed sanctity in my personal space. I yearned for authentic connections, for a shared journey of magical exploration. As a result, this yearning gave birth to the House of Blackthorn.
A Unique Haven
No longer would I conform to the traditional pathways of community. House of Blackthorn would be a unique haven — a coven, a family, a gathering of engaging minds and kindred spirits. Through my writings, through the intimate connections on Patreon, through every ripple I’ve created in the vast ocean of the universe, I extended an invitation.
You Are Not Alone
Here, in the House of Blackthorn, you are seen, you are valued, and you are not alone. I stand as Michael Blackthorn, The Deviant Witch, not above or before you, but among you. Together, in this sacred space, we will weave a tapestry of love, compassion, understanding, and relentless support. For this house is not built from bricks but from the heartbeats of every soul that calls it home.
Moving Forward with Certainty
As I move forward, I do so with the certainty that what I bring to this world is worth the investment. I stand for authenticity, for passion, for the transformative power of magic — but most importantly, I stand for me.
Part V: Planting the Seeds of Sanctuary
The Birth of House of Blackthorn
There came this moment when I realized I needed to keep some parts of myself for me, you know? It’s like in the stillness of my own thoughts, during those late-night heart-to-hearts I’d have with myself, I understood that not everything should be laid bare. That’s where the whole transformation started. It was as if I was reaching out from my own shadows, trying to find that part of me that was still wild, still free, still untamed and full of magic. And that’s how ‘House of Blackthorn’ began — it’s more than just a rebrand; it’s like coming home to a place that’s been there all along, just waiting for the right time to step into the light.
A Sanctuary Emerges
‘House of Blackthorn’ represents not just a new chapter but an entire new reality. Here, I can truly express myself, and I invite everyone to do the same. Bursting with ideas and dreams, I felt compelled to launch this blog as a platform for these inner visions. I stand here, not to prove myself, but to demonstrate the boundless possibilities awaiting us.
Journey of Transformation
Embarking on this rebranding process has evolved into a journey of its own. By embracing a slow and steady pace, each step offers therapeutic reflection. ‘House of Blackthorn’ stands as a sanctuary, welcoming misfits, seekers, and anyone who has felt the harsh sting of exclusion. Together, we’re forging a tangible community, valuing each story and voice that echoes in our shared space.
Rekindling the Flame
As ‘House of Blackthorn’ takes shape, a lost spark reignites within me. Brimming with excitement, I am prepared for the adventures on the horizon, eager to embrace life with unabashed fervor. I extend this invitation to you, hoping you’ll accompany me on this exhilarating journey. So, ready your broomsticks, and prepare for heartfelt discussions, shared anxieties, and mutual passions. I commit myself to this journey, ready for the unfiltered truths and raw authenticity of our collective experiences. Because, ultimately, we strive for the same goal: emerging from the shadows, guiding one another into the warm embrace of acceptance and illumination.
From Shadows to Light: Waking the Witch
As I stand here, on the precipice of this new adventure, I look back not with regret but with understanding. Life, with its tapestry of chaos and beauty, has been both a harsh teacher and a tender mentor. Each scar etched upon my spirit speaks of a battle fought, a shadow embraced, and a lesson learned. They bear testament to the witch I was, the phoenix who burned in his own flames, only to rise from the ashes, awakened and luminous.
Finding Light in Darkness
In the solitude of my darkest nights, I came to understand the true power of the spells we cast, realizing they derive their strength from compassion and connection. Instead of viewing my journey through the shadows as a descent into an abyss, I saw it as a pilgrimage, a quest to discover the light within — a light that burns brightly within us all. This inner radiance stands undefeated, a steadfast force against the encroaching darkness.
Extending a Hand
Now, standing as the founder of the House of Blackthorn, I reach out to you. This haven mirrors every tear shed, every burst of laughter, and every solemn promise I made to myself and to you all. It stands as a beacon for the lost, a sanctuary for the seekers, and a sacred space where authenticity and solidarity form the heart of our magic.
Invitation to Magic
I invite you not merely to watch but to engage actively, to add your unique enchantments to our collective cauldron. As witches stirring from our slumbers, together in this mystical house, we commit to weaving spells of transformation. We do this not solely for ourselves but for the greater world. It becomes clear that our shared narratives and enchantments are where the true magic lies — potent, vibrant, and steadfast.
Emerging from the Shadows
So, let’s take a step together, emerging from the shadows. Together, we awaken the witch within and the indomitable spirit that craves a world infused with love, magic, and understanding. In this house, within this family, we value you for more than your spells or appearances; we see beyond the darkness. Here, you find a home.
Enter the House, Enrich the Coven
Within the welcoming walls of the House of Blackthorn, a unique coven thrives, and an open door awaits you. Have your footsteps been guided through life’s tempests, echoing with the solitary dance of your own shadows? Have you heard the silent call of the unseen, urging you to embrace your power? Know this: your journey has never been a lonely one.
Share your story:
Your experiences are the spells you’ve cast, a testament to your inner strength and magical essence. We invite you to weave your story into the very fabric of this House. Whether through tales of darkness that led to dawn or whispers of mystical encounters, your voice enriches us all. Comment below to cast your spell.
Become a Pillar of Our Covenstead:
Your presence in the House of Blackthorn roots us deeper into the earth and the ethos we share. Join us on patreon to nurture these bonds. Engage with your coven through being active across social media, we want to connect with you. Here, every shared reflection, supportive gesture, or offering of wisdom is a brick that builds our home.
Embark on this Sacred Path:
This collective journey is one of shared wisdom and mutual awakening. Find us across the internet to stay attuned to our communal rites, gatherings, and celebrations of magic. Within the House of Blackthorn, we craft a haven for every soul where the disenchanted become the enchanted, and seekers become finders.
In the embrace of the House of Blackthorn, you’re more than a member; you are a guardian of its magic, a curator of its wisdom. Together, let’s cultivate a sanctuary where the roots of magic grow unfettered, fed by our stories, dreams, and collective strength.
Join us at the hearth, fellow witches. In unity, we spark the alchemy of transformation, kindling the eternal flame of a community reborn.
Nadia Romanov says
This. Is. Exquisite. and Powerful.
I have known you for a lot of the journey you share and am so moved and inspired by how even in the darkest, narrowest of passageways, you kept moving forward, embodied the strength and wisdom to sit with your journey and discover your true destination that is in itself a yet to expand and flourish magical realm – all of your own making. Congrats my friend. All the love and blessings… and gratitude to you in your new venture.
Michael Blackthorn says
Thank you so much! I do appreciate your kind words. I am also grateful to have shared this entire journey with you. It’s so funny how we really are never alone and how each individual we come in contact with provides their own layer of influence in our lives and what we take with us and what we leave behind are all gems.
Ellen says
What beautiful, emotive writing. It’s like I could reach out to touch the ephemeral web of starry magic your words evoke. I’ve only followed your journey since 2018, but your words have reached me in dark hours to accept what I am. It’s a privilege to learn from and interact with you.