Mixed Metaphors

I just finished reading a book sent to me by a friend.  Actually, she sent me the entire series (all 14 books) because they have great meaning to her.   The stories helped her in her spiritual quest and she had told me how much she enjoyed reading them.  I was enthusiastic in encouraging her to keep reading stories that gave her strength and a sense of self.

I was surprised to get the package as I didn't expect any result from my endorsement.  I like to see what speaks to loved ones, so I read the first book.  I tried to get into it, but I felt discomfited.  I kept questioning myself because it wasn't holding my interest the way some books do.  I found myself arguing with story points in my mind.

The series follows a family of witches and various clans of witches.  I don't want to dismiss anything that means that much to someone I love, so I examined what specific things in the book raised questions in my mind.  I knew I didn't have any objection to the witchcraft or spells or magic.  I've read and watched plenty of stories that involved the occult.  And I am a firm believer in whatever metaphor works for you is what you should use.   

I finally pinpointed the problem.  My world view is one of belief in power – all the power there is - available to each of us.  I believe that we can call on that power for ourselves at any time we need it.  However, I also believe that we have free will.

Everything in my life is at choice.  I make the choices.  I cannot make choices for anyone else and I cannot force anyone to do anything, including me.  I couldn't get behind the idea of love spells that would take choice from someone.   And I believe in consequences of choices.  Not, punishment, consequence.  Nothing happens in a vacuum. 

In my life, I have lived through some horrific experiences and been deeply hurt by some people.   What I have learned is that vengeance doesn't help.  Hurting someone else does not make me feel better or be better.  So, the idea that magic could be used to hurt others and was justified, was uncomfortable for me.  I do like a narrative that includes vengeance and destructive choices, if there is a path to redemption, growth, or finding another way.  I do believe in that.  I know people can change.  I know people can find ways to make amends for mistaken judgment and action. 

I want to make clear, this is my belief system and my metaphor and I am not speaking for anyone else.  I am glad that there are plenty of metaphors floating around, enough for everyone to find their own.   I think it is great that my friend has found a belief that works for her.   I see way too many people foundering and lost because they haven't found something that resonates with their very soul or they think it isn't acceptable.  We each get to choose what we believe.  So, choose for yourself.