What is Magic?

The dictionary definition of magic is to change reality with the power of the mind, to influence or change forces beyond our usual control.

Some people believe that this is impossible, however, as Arthur C Clarke pointed out "Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic."

So before going any further, I want to give a few examples of "magic" that have crept into the world without people being aware that they are magic. Many people swear by affirmations, the use of a key phrase repeated over and over, in writing or verbally, to attract something in to your life. For whatever reason, call it magic or God, or just pure chance, there does seem to be some basis that affirmations work. Tradionally in western science, it is not believed possible to influence sub-conscious bodily functions, yet many advanced practionners of yoga are able to do this very easily. In the last ten years it has become widely accepted that somatic theories of illness can be valid. You may argue that these things are not magic, but where do you draw the line?

In the case of affirmations, the phrase you are using is acting as a focus for your will or desire. This is a common theme through nearly all paths and traditions of magic, be it a complicated higher magical ritual to a simple herb spell. You use an object or objects to focus and channel your will. One of the easiest ways if you are new to magic is to use simple things such as a candles. A flame is a very potent symbol and something that is easy to focus on. Light a candle, relax and focus your intent on it, you may want to add a visualisation, of perhaps a new job or meeting someone new, you might want to write something down and burn it in the candle to seal it, you may want to say something out loud, like a prayer or mantra. These are all forms of simple magic.

A note about black and white magic. If I buy a knife to cut my apple, is the knife a good knife? If I buy a knife to murder my neighbour, is the knife a bad knife? Magic is a tool, and an extension of you and your will, use it wisely.