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<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\nI spent today at Sacred Journey UU Fellowship<\/a> in a workshop on magical tools led by Phaedra Bonewits. Phaedra is perhaps best known as the widow of Isaac Bonewits<\/a>, which is unfortunate since she has an impressive magical resume on her own<\/a> \u2013 including a term as Vice President of the national CUUPS Board of Trustees. <\/p>\n I have the usual assortment of magical tools. Some (like the athame I rarely use any more) I purchased in the early days of my Pagan and magical exploration, while others have been acquired as the need for them arose. I don\u2019t use many tools in my personal practice, but they are very helpful in public rituals.<\/p>\n Magical tools are props \u2013 the title of Phaedra\u2019s handout for this workshop was \u201cPropping Up the Magic.\u201d They help focus and intensify the work of the magician and\/or priest. With use, they become psychological triggers, helping you to rapidly shift into an altered state of consciousness. They also provide visual cues to other ritual participants, helping them to see what\u2019s being done as well as hearing it. <\/p>\n This workshop covered the tools traditionally corresponding to the four elements. <\/p>\n Air \u2013 the sword or athame, a tool of the intellect. The world is often messy and gray, but there are times when we need boundaries. Blades draw limits. <\/p>\n Fire \u2013 the wand or staff, a tool of the passions. Staffs bar \u2013 they stop entry. They also serve to direct power. <\/p>\n