Ethics

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"Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself." - Tolstoy Ethics are as individualized as the path chosen. I follow the Wiccan Rede, but I have several friends whom do not. This is not to say that they go out to intentionally create chaos or are vindictive. They are my friends, by choice, which is indicative of their good hearts. I respect their choice and they respect mine. This does not mean you have to sit back and let the world take advantage of you! You are allowed to protect yourself and those you love. This doesn't mean you should send out negativity, nor does it mean you pick a fight. As I have said from the beginning, what you do affects others. You are responsible not only for yourself, but also for what happens to those about you that you do magick for. You are not allowed to take away someone's free will. You don't get to decide that because your feelings are hurt that you should cause anyone else pain. Well, you shouldn't. You need to begin by looking inwards. I once read that when we are hurt or angry, it isn't really because of what the other person did, but rather it is something we have a personal issue with. Think about this. You aren't really mad at the person, you are mad because you didn't have any control over the situation. Not only does this bother you, you realize this is an issue that has repeated itself in your life over and over again. So who needs the work? You need to begin with yourself. Why does this pattern repeat itself? Often times we find we have simply allowed ourselves to be taken advantage of because it's easier than to stand up and say, "I have feelings! I don't have to be a victim! I can say "no"!" I am responsible for my own thoughts, feelings, and actions!" If we don't create that invisible line, how can we expect others to honor it? You will be surprised to discover that if you set boundaries and stick to your guns, others will be more respectful of you. It is said that to get respect, you have to give it. If you don't respect yourself, you won't be respected. It's that simple. There is nothing magickal about that. The same holds true with love. Basically, ethics to me means, I will not take advantage of others. No one is more or less valuable than I. Material things are not more important than the human spirit. Compassion does not mean you are weak. Having a spine does not mean you have to be hateful. Ethics equals responsibility!