Does the wand choose the wizard or the wizard choose the wand?
It is certainly not essential to have a wand to work powerful magic – but, if you would like one; somewhere out there you will find the perfect fit!
You’ll know when you have as it will just feel very right, and your wand arm will positively tingle with anticipation...
In Ollivander’s the wand chose the wizard – which would certainly have made things a lot easier.
Here at Pendragon’s however we believe that
choosing a wand is a two way process. A wand can’t (unfortunately!) squeak up
and tell you it wants to work with you; instead you have to hold it and feel
whether you are in alignment with its own unique qualities.
Choosing
the type of tree from which to cut your wand is probably the most important
decision.
Traditionally, in Celtic and Pagan mythology, different trees and wood types have subtly different energies and are very different to work with. You may be interested to delve into the subjects of tree symbolism and energies in folklore.
Don’t get too hung up on all this though...
Symbolism is a useful magical tool, which can enhance and enliven our magical work by capturing the imagination and summoning archetypes – however, symbols are NOT our masters!
Just because someone, somewhere has
declared the Elder or Yew tree to be especially magical and potent woods does
not necessarily mean that they are the best for you personally. A special tree
you associate with your childhood or a happy memory would be a much better
choice...Or a tree that appeals to you for other reasons, however tenuous (your
subconscious mind knows best after all).
My wand at the moment is made of Holly from the garden. I like the energy of the tree. I love the way the dark green leaves are always there, steadfast and dependable; the way the bright berries seem so joyful and alive; and the way it reminds me of Christmas, my favourite time of year, the bringing together of family and friends. It is a very firey, warm and passionate tree, which is serving me very well for this phase in my life. I do wonder what your wand will mean to you?
So, cultural/crowd sourced symbolism has a useful place – it is a quick “go to” tool for a busy witch or wizard. It is important to remember though that the most powerful types of symbolism are always those which are the most personal – and usually the ones over which more time and careful consideration has been spent.
How should I cut my wand? Is there a special ritual I should follow, a correct way of doing things?
Short answer: No!
Do whatever makes you happy! You can make it as simple or as ritualistic as you like (plenty of ideas to be found online...) As a sort of minimum though, and as a sign of respect to the tree, I like to cut cleanly with a sharp knife – don’t saw or hack away etc. And personally I always thank the tree, but maybe that’s just me...
A final thought, remember, our personalities change, grow, and evolve as we go through life.
Choosing your first wand is an exciting an important decision – but don’t over think things- you’ll probably have several different types of wand throughout your lifetime, depending on your needs at the time.
- And it’s always the wizard BEHIND the wand that works the magic!
