The Virtue of Strength

Over the next couple of months, I will be reviewing the virtues that are found in the Charge of the Goddess as adapted by Doreen Valiente. The 8 virtues include Mirth, Reverence, Strength, Beauty, Honor, Humility, Power, and Compassion.

We will be starting with STRENGTH, which we need now more than ever in the midst of the current events in the world. Per Merriam-Webster strength can be defined as:

·         the quality or state of being strong: capacity for exertion or endurance

·         power to resist force

·         power of resisting attack

·         a strong attribute or inherent asset

·         degree of potency of effect or of concentration

·         one regarded as embodying or affording force or firmness

We can contextualize Strength in the physical, mental or emotional sense. Our bodies, minds, and spirits can have varying levels of strength depending on our personal situations. We need to cultivate and maintain strength for various needs. Several other words come to mind as I think of strength: stamina, resilience, perseverance, fortitude, protection, grounding, foundation.

I chose to highlight “strength” at this time of the year because we are still in the midst of winter, a time when we often need all of the above to survive the cold and mental impact of darker days. Many people experience seasonal depression during this time, which is much like an attack on our body, minds, and spirits. Maintaining our strength (even if that means taking needed medication or seeking therapy) can help us endure and resist the impact depression can impose.

Strength can also be related to the boundaries we enforce to protect ourselves physically from the harsher winter weather and from things or people that do not support our goals.  It can also be a time of rest to regain strength for the new cycle of seasons. It is time to consider the strong foundations we must create to reach our goals. This can require a time of rest and reflection to plan.

When working magic, it is often very important to engage in grounding and protecting/shielding techniques prior to whatever you plan to do. This can be a simple as imaging yourself rooted to the Earth with a sphere of light around you that allows in what you need and keeps out what you do not. Witches cast circles in order to bolster the area in which they work so it is strong and protected.

When crafting magical workings and rituals, consider the potency of the desired outcome and whether you will need to revisit the working to boost its stamina. You can also plan specific workings or rituals focused on building your physical, mental and/or emotional strength.

It is important to acknowledge when your strength feels low. You do not want to push yourself too hard. Remember that crafting and actually participating in magic can deplete your energy. Rest is absolutely necessary.

Remember you can rely on others as a source of strength and support if they are willing to do so. Turn to your spirit guides, deity, and the Earth itself as a source of strength. Create magical experiences promoting peace and relaxation. Consider when you might be able to provide strength and support to another in need. Strong bonds between us, whether in magical or mundane life, fortify all we do. There is strength in numbers.

Know that you are not alone. You are stronger than you know. There are no weaknesses, only places to grow. Imagine the Strength tarot card. A figure stands gently touching a lion. Strength can take many forms. Below is a poem or prayer that I offer you to get in touch with your STRENGTH.

Like the rock of a mountain

Deep roots of a tree

Let the earth’s foundations

Strengthen me

Like the flowing springs

And the falling rain

Let the water’s sustenance

My stamina regain

Like the gust of wind

And a warrior’s song

Let the winds push

Perseverance along

Like a flaming torch

And heated metal

Let the fire’s warning

Protection settle

-Kelody Fey