I've been quiet for some time now recovering from a hip replacement last July and the second replacement (other hip) in February. You would think that down time would have provided all of the time needed to write, but foggy mind doesn't make for clarity. Now, it's time to write!

I've been spending time of late in trying to think of ways to help during this COVID-19 pandemic and the necessary isolation that has resulted to keep people virus free or at the least minimize transmission and exposure. Our Tradition has postponed or cancelled large gatherings. Our coven has cancelled open events. I have cancelled workshops. And, we are all navigating new ways to remain in touch. So, I wanted to use this post to offer some suggestions: 

 

Teleconferencing:

There are a number of platforms available that work beautifully for setting up virtual meetings. Zoom Teleconferencing offers a free option with a 40 min. limit on call. You can upgrade to a pro plan for 14.99 p/month, but usually the 40-minute marker has worked well for our coven book discussions, check ins and social time. 

Three of our children are in California, one is in Arizona and one is here. We have often Facetimed or Skyped the west/south kids, but now with the "stay at home" orders our Philadelphia daughter is unaccessible in person as well.  

Facebook Messenger Video offers group chat function. I like using this since it is not limited to apple devices. We just purchased a Portal device (totally not necessary, but a good investment for us), which made it feel as though everyone was together in the same room. 

Beyond reaching out socially, the video options can be used for ritual, memorials and more. Recently a dear friend suffered a loss of a loved one and was saddened even more in that they would not be able to have a memorial service because of gathering limitations and closures. I suggested that they could still have the memorial, each family member in their own space, someone setting up an appropriate altar (or other) and use the video conference to speak words of comfort, celebrate the deceased's life, raise a toast, etc.  

If you routinely work with a group or circle, the Esbats or Sabbats could be written to allow for everyone to gather via teleconference and move through the working together, each in the safety of their own space. 

Audio:

Consider recording your favorite meditation or pathworking and sharing it with friends and loved ones. Keep it short and simple. Any phone has a voice memo/recording app or the capability of downloading one from the App store. Once recorded, these can be shared or uploaded to Dropbox (I use the free account and just routinely delete old files so I don't have to upgrade fir more storage space) and embedded in an email. 

Photos:

A lot can be achieved in the sending of a singular photo of something that brings, joy, hope and laughter. Look back through some of your photos and consider sending out to friends and loved ones those that brought you the most joy. It may be a reminder to the person receiving of a wonderful day spent together or an image that will bring a smile or chuckle to the recipient. 

Some Offerings of My Own

I write. I teach. I record a lot. In thinking about how I could help these are a few offerings to our community:

Teachings on the Path

This site is a repository of my workshops over several years. All include live audio and handouts from the session. During this limited accessibility to in person learning, I am offering one free course through May 1st.  Click here for more information about the course listings and more:   Free Select-a-Course

The Inner Chamber on YouTube

This is a channel I set up with select video about the Craft.

Teachings on the Path with Robin at Bandcamp

This account has a selection of recorded pathworkings and meditations

A Year and a Day on the Wiccan Path

An online course in the foundations of Wiccan/Magickal practice

Please stay safe and be well. Be creative and remember to reach out as you are able to friends, loved ones and community.  Blessings...Robin