15 Comments

As a Black woman, I think I am a member of a group perpetually perceived as at the very least, witch-adjacent: powerful, mysterious, creative, in the best iteration: dangerous, angry, unknowable, and other in the worst iteration. I’m fine with that, either way.

Expand full comment
author

As I noted earlier, you might as well embrace exactly who you are, because, without fitting in to societal norms, everyone will treat you like a witch anyway

Expand full comment

Although I don't identify as a witch, as an intersectional woman who is assertive, thinks critically and speaks up about systems change and anti-oppressive leadership--all of which breaks me from the mold of what is socially idealized and acceptable for a woman--I'm pretty sure others may consider me to be one!

Expand full comment
author

Whether you identify as a witch, or not, the sad reality is that women who do not conform to the norm, are always going to be outliers.

Expand full comment

Story of my life! 💯

Expand full comment
Jan 14Liked by Nancy Hendrickson

Apparently there is nothing so threatening as a smart, competent woman. I’ve always been concerned that when the going gets tough, the finger pointing starts. We have to be ever vigilant about this. A protection bottle under the front doorstep wouldn’t hurt either …

Expand full comment
author

I’m going to create one and tuck it behind a Vining plant that I have on the left side of our front door. I love that idea, and you were so right about about the finger pointing.

Expand full comment
author

I like that idea, Shelley. Where would we place one since we’re on the 2nd floor?

Expand full comment

One option to consider is placing one of whatever protective piece you're using on each side of your door.

Expand full comment

Thank you for this great conversation. Do I identify as a witch? I have never taken on that identity. However... it is a good question. I know I have a strong inner Gypsy, I remember speaking with her from early childhood. Perhaps she is an astral twin of an internal Witch. I certainly live outside of what is expected and regularly consort with planets, trees, weather, and non-human forces. I love your words and considerations.

Expand full comment
author

Thank you Laurie. I really don’t think it matters if strong women call themselves a witch or not. I love that you consort with planets, trees, weather, and non-human forces, and am pretty sure that makes you very witchy in the eyes of the “normal“ world!

Expand full comment
Jan 15Liked by Nancy Hendrickson

Many years ago, I was able to go to Edinburgh for the first time. I found myself trembling upon arrival. I had that reaction every other time I went, as well. It’s been more than a couple of decades since I’ve traveled but I felt like I’d lived there and died there. Perhaps, in another life,someone thought I was a witch? I’d like to know more -- and I’d like to know about my ancestors. And that’s what’s drawn me to your work, Nancy Hendrickson.

Expand full comment
author

I’m delighted to have you here. I think I’m going to put a section on my website with genealogy resources. But I am also going to put a page about using a pendulum to learn more about ancestors. If you felt that way in Edinburgh, clearly your life, there was not one of love and comfort.

Expand full comment
author

Thanks, I actually have a Vine plant on one side of the door. There isn’t room on the other side though.

Expand full comment