Don't forget that you aren't the same person today that you were yesterday, and you don't always keep a friendship forever. So it could also be that people change up who they are closest to as Patron/Matron because you are growing up and changing as you go through your life. You are becoming a better person and sometimes you have a new view on life and find things happen and so you have a new person you want to be friends with.
When I was younger I referred to Lugh and Bríd as my patron and matron. I stopped everything for a long time, came back to it, and now I refer to Manannán as my mentor rather than my patron. It strikes me as more his speed to be a mentor than a patron, anyway.
I loved this video. Making vows is a huge step. I have only ever made vows to one deity (The Morrigan) and there is a long winded backstory to that. I made a video about it about 3 years ago but the audio is awful and so I was thinking about remaking it this October as a devotional piece. Having said that, I feel such a strong connection to Mabon at the moment and making my recent Mabon videos and exploring the local land with Him. I feel such a deep connection now that Mabon is certainly a more permanent fixture in my personal practice. Every newbie should watch this video and perhaps it will make them think twice. Not that I regret my decision to dedicate to The Morrigan, I would not be the person I am today without Her. She is my rock. Also, I am slowly but surely working my way through your videos. I’m learning so much. Thank you 🙏
Somehow, I missed this comment until today. I have a super close relationship with Mabon, but I haven't made vows. I'm not sure that it's even important. I feel more like we have an understanding which doesn't require words or formality. I am humbled that you are learning from my videos. I have been trying to look at more of yours, as I'm sure there is much I can learn from you, too.
I have seen people online advise against it. But alas I think I will make a vow of sobriety for one month. That is easy enough to keep. These vows are interesting things, I think I have recited a vow or two to Yahweh inside a catholic church at this point.
I personally do not make vows to my deities. It is a fluid and open relationship. I do devotionals, give offerings, and engage in prayer to them. But, I never promise myself to a deity as one would to say a spouse. I give of myself on a ongoing basis without demand or wanting something from them. Meaning that I will provide prayer and offerings to them without asking for anything. I mean, I wouldn't do that to a friend or family member, so why would I do that to them? I am free to ask their assistance, and they are free not to reciprocate. However, we know how that goes with human relationships, and the same applies to deities. No reciprocation in the relationship, on my or their behalf, usually falls into stagnation and dissolution. Which isn't good for either of us. What this does, in my experience, is allow for times when I cannot devote myself to them and times when they are unable to manifest when I need them. Neither are upset and both are satisfied within the relationship, because it is one of compassion and grace. This is no different than asking a friend for help renovating your house, but they are busy that week moving into their new home. One cannot be genuinely upset at them for not dropping everything for you. Instead, maybe you help them to move this week and the next they will help you renovate. The same rules I think apply to our relationships with deities and other spirits. One of accord and respect.
Interesting to consider.
Don't forget that you aren't the same person today that you were yesterday, and you don't always keep a friendship forever. So it could also be that people change up who they are closest to as Patron/Matron because you are growing up and changing as you go through your life. You are becoming a better person and sometimes you have a new view on life and find things happen and so you have a new person you want to be friends with.
Yes, of course! I think that's a good reason to stay on the careful side with vows.
I admire your opinions and your look at the entire picture! Thank you for sharing!
When I was younger I referred to Lugh and Bríd as my patron and matron. I stopped everything for a long time, came back to it, and now I refer to Manannán as my mentor rather than my patron. It strikes me as more his speed to be a mentor than a patron, anyway.
Whatever you call Him, Manannán is very special.
I loved this video. Making vows is a huge step. I have only ever made vows to one deity (The Morrigan) and there is a long winded backstory to that. I made a video about it about 3 years ago but the audio is awful and so I was thinking about remaking it this October as a devotional piece. Having said that, I feel such a strong connection to Mabon at the moment and making my recent Mabon videos and exploring the local land with Him. I feel such a deep connection now that Mabon is certainly a more permanent fixture in my personal practice. Every newbie should watch this video and perhaps it will make them think twice. Not that I regret my decision to dedicate to The Morrigan, I would not be the person I am today without Her. She is my rock. Also, I am slowly but surely working my way through your videos. I’m learning so much. Thank you 🙏
Somehow, I missed this comment until today. I have a super close relationship with Mabon, but I haven't made vows. I'm not sure that it's even important. I feel more like we have an understanding which doesn't require words or formality. I am humbled that you are learning from my videos. I have been trying to look at more of yours, as I'm sure there is much I can learn from you, too.
I really am enjoying this series. Thank you!
That's very kind! thank you!
Yup! I'm with you on all this, Old Witch. From a young witch who once made a vow. 😂
I have seen people online advise against it. But alas I think I will make a vow of sobriety for one month. That is easy enough to keep. These vows are interesting things, I think I have recited a vow or two to Yahweh inside a catholic church at this point.
Fascinating
I personally do not make vows to my deities. It is a fluid and open relationship. I do devotionals, give offerings, and engage in prayer to them. But, I never promise myself to a deity as one would to say a spouse. I give of myself on a ongoing basis without demand or wanting something from them. Meaning that I will provide prayer and offerings to them without asking for anything. I mean, I wouldn't do that to a friend or family member, so why would I do that to them? I am free to ask their assistance, and they are free not to reciprocate. However, we know how that goes with human relationships, and the same applies to deities. No reciprocation in the relationship, on my or their behalf, usually falls into stagnation and dissolution. Which isn't good for either of us.
What this does, in my experience, is allow for times when I cannot devote myself to them and times when they are unable to manifest when I need them. Neither are upset and both are satisfied within the relationship, because it is one of compassion and grace. This is no different than asking a friend for help renovating your house, but they are busy that week moving into their new home. One cannot be genuinely upset at them for not dropping everything for you. Instead, maybe you help them to move this week and the next they will help you renovate. The same rules I think apply to our relationships with deities and other spirits. One of accord and respect.
I love what you've written here!