I used to write for two Wiccan magazines (which I miss) One was called Whispering Willow. The name of my weekly article was "Calissta's Cauldron." My sweetie and I were talking abou it and he convinced me to start doing it again here. This article was first published in July 2000 - Issue 1. I am posting it here to get back into the groove. I hope you enjoy it and return every week. I also did a question and answer section about Wicca. I will be glad to bring that back as well. Feel free to write me any questions you may have and you may see my reply here!
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Runes have been traced back to Egyptian times as a portable from of hieroglyphics. They would burn symbols onto small stones and carry them in sachets around their neck as protection and silent communication. There is speculation that the origin of runes may have gone further back but there is nothing concrete that proves this. There are many different kinds of runes. They have different symbols and can be made of many different materials. The most beautiful I have seen have been made or rose quartz and moonstone. I have a lovely set made by a Kiowa Indian chief and have the symbols of our tribe on them.They are made of slate with red painted crvings and mean a lot to me because they reflect some of my heritage. Runes are used for daily predictions as well as more long term ones.
For example, some people have a pouch by their bed. Before they get out in the morning they get the stones and ask a question for the day. It could be something like What will today be like for me?" then they reach into the bag and pull out a rune. (or with some other kinds of runes they shake all of them and throw them down and read six or seven of them.) Others carry the runes with them at all times and pull one out everytime they need help or guidance. Forn more of a long term reading the usual procedure is to shake the pouch and line them up one at a time using the line up as a reference to what the future will bring.
Runes can be made very easily if one desires more of a personal touch. You can go to any art store (or even Walmart) and look for sculpting/modeling clay. Mold them and carve your symbols with either a pointed cuticle stick or small chisel. This type of clay can usually be baked in a 350 degree oven for about twenty or thirty minutes then once cooled sprayed with a clear lacquer to make them last indefinitely. *Be sure to read package directions as temperatures and times may vary. If you are not familiar with the symbols, you can find the basic ones in any New Age store or even Barnes and Noble. Making them yourself not only gives them a more beautiful touch but a more spiritual connection. I have alway had clearer readings with materials I have made myself. I am not putting down store bought however. There are some lovely runes made my Celtic,Norse and several other traditions.
You should not be afraid to make your own runes or to even experiment with your own symbols. You can assign each one your own meaning. After all, the heart and soul's own interpretations is rarely wrong.
May the Goddess live in your heart and be heard through your words.
Rev. Calissta R.
Copyright 2000
