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Rambling Witch | Converting to Christianity, Denouncing Witchcraft, Leaving the New Age..
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- čas přidán 18. 06. 2018
- In response to the recent conversion and testimonial video from a full-time cardslinger and popular witch in the CZcams community, I put these thoughts together as an attempt to explore the concept of the testimonial, the psychology of those who leave witchcraft/New Age for Christianity, and how it can affect those who remain within the Craft/New Age. Please watch the entire video before making any judgement about my intentions. I am not trying to bash or harm Elyse. I'm glad that her decision to make a testimonial has opened up this opportunity for exploration and discussion.
There are a few other things which I didn’t mention in the video but which I would like to clarify or point out:
I know that not all factions of Christianity are interested overly in evangelising and saving souls, and that not all sects and denominations are fundamentalist in their outlook. I am specifically referencing the kind of Christianity which does really push its agenda of winning souls for Jesus and which seeks actively to change the minds of non-believers whom they have no issue with describing as ‘hell-bound’ and that kind of thing. (I also want to stress that I know you can have a relationship with Jesus which falls completely outside of Christianity, just as I have a connection with The Blessed Virgin which falls outside of Catholicism.)
In the video, I mention that there is a difference between witches who just become interested in the craft for power, sex or money and then ‘true’ witches who are interested in it for deeper reasons. I regret the wording of this sentence - it came off as catty and judgemental which wasn’t my intention! I wanted to clarify that I am NOT saying that you can’t use magick for power, sex or money! But I just tend to see a pattern of this amongst those who denounce their former beliefs in testimonials. It’s as though they only saw witchcraft as either a meal ticket or as something which they believed would relieve them of all their issues and make everything better (like an unrealistic panacea). They were sorely disappointed and disillusioned with the craft because they were actually focusing on the wrong things or seeing it in an unhelpful way.
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I just want to make clear that I never intended to hurt, shame, or in any other way negatively affect anyone. I was sharing my experience as many many people asked me to do. I also want to be crystal clear that I did not go into tarot for monetary gain, power, sex, or anything of the like. I was blessed to have my business and connect with the people I did. I took my job seriously and I did my best at all times. I am not now nor have i ever been homophobic and I never intended to share links that would in any way harm my friends that are homosexual. i loved them then and i love them now.
I do not expect to convert anyone or ask people to adopt my beliefs. I respect everyone and their choice to believe and follow whatever path they choose. I am SINCERELY SORRY to anyone who felt hurt or triggered by anything I said.
Wild Moon Woman Thank you Elyse. You are already so missed. I wish you well! Thank you for the light and inspiration that you brought to the community while you could. ❤
Love you Ana
Elyse, I was subscribed to your channel though I don't know much about you. Sad to see that your channel is down. If I had subscribed, it was because there was good, nourishing material. Maybe there will be a balance for you that includes New Age and Christianity as you continue your path. There is no need to throw everything out. In any case, I wish you well and best of luck.
@Wild Moon Woman: As a former subscriber (and a member of the LGBT community) I completely believe you when you say that you are not homophobic. But if the homophobic links mentioned here are indicative of the spritual teachings you are choosing to promote or surround yourself with, it hardly makes much of a difference; willingly promoting or enabling the harmful beliefs of others, whether or not you personally share those beliefs, still contributes to harming others.
I do wish you well, though. I hope you'll be happy. And I hope you find a version of Christianity that seeks to uplift people, rather than demonize them.
Just wanted to say I have a lot of respect for you coming on and writing this apology, Elyse. There are so many people who wouldn’t, and I wish you all the best on this new path.
Ive just come back to witchcraft after 14 years as a “Christian.” I was told that I needed to burn all of my witchcraft supplies and “repent” for the evil that I “connected with as a witch.” I went through years of misery and the church leadership put a “banner over my head” and continuously put me down for my past. I finally have returned to my “roots” as a witch. I feel such joy and peace. The whole lot of people that I was friends with who were “Christians” have cut me off now but I realized that I don’t need their negativity in my life. I plan to walk out my days in peace and tranquillity as the witch that I am. Thank you for posting this.
Kara Elder
Wow, you took a big leap to go back to your truth. I commend you! Thanks for watching x
Kara Elder Same, Kara, same. I feel so much anger at letting myself be controlled by fear in my 20s and getting rid of all my stuff. I've remained on a Esoteric Christian path, but I've come to understand I will never fit in their box and I will never be controlled by fear again.
Kara Elder I’m a mystic Christian and I’m so sorry you went through that. I really dislike fanatic evangelic Christians, so judgemental towards others. I wish you an enlightened and happy witchy path! 💙
I'm doing the same thing, it's awesome! I've always deeply regretted giving in. It won't happen again.
Kara - I love your story and boy do I understand what you're saying! ❤️ I'm an esoteric christian and incorporate a variety of spiritual practices in my life. For a time in my 20s my husband and I participated in his parents bible based shepherding group (which is on the list of bible based cults), but I'm 50 now and have been away from that for a long time. It was sooo toxic. Not just religious toxicity but serious psychological shit. I am harassed to this day by them, even though I have very low contact. I have no room in my life for toxic christianity. (Or toxic anything LOL) Thank you for sharing this! I'm glad there are others like me. :-)
Thank you for posting this. Very honest and frank. I found myself nodding along and agreeing throughout. I have nothing else to add, even though many have asked me for a response. I shall just direct everyone here 🙏🏼
Hermit’s Cave
Thank you so much for watching and I am happy to provide your ready-made response! 😁
Well, I watched her video and I must say I was surprised. Like you, I am very happy for her and hope she finds the peace she needs. We all have different paths in life, different stages of spirituality that we evolve through in this life and sometimes they just happen without warning. However, her business was more than tarot. She was providing spiritual help, through tarot for those that needed guidance and perhaps some resolution in their life. By denigrating her old path, she’s taking something very precious from the people that really valued her opinion and her insights. In a way, like a counselor who leaves you hanging. Of course, we should really never put anyone on such a high pedestal, or we’re bound to be let down. Any pursuit of divinity I believe should really start within. If you’re always looking outside for the divine and and never really recognize the spark within, you’ll never really be satisfied with any religion. The empty feeling that needs to be filled can’t be filled by just a deity or dogmatic structure. After a number of years the restlessness will follow…anyway, that’s just my two cents.
Yes, Luna Solare, thank you! That's exactly it, like a counselor who then suddenly says ah, Freud and Jung, all a bunch of crap! You are so right about pedestals and spark within, but sometimes one only realises when something is gone what your subconscious was doing with it ;-)
You are absolutely right. Well said.
Beautifully said!
As a former collegue and friend of Elyse I was also impacted by her video. You cant imagine how much I sincerely appreciated this video. You have so eloquently put all of my thoughts into words. Im so greatful that we have such an intelligent witch in the community. Thank you Kelly Ann for being a mouth peice for so many of us here. Every single word in this video was absolutely Perfect. Love and blessings to you.
I have to say it breaks my heart whenever I see someone who drowns themselves entirely in one specific "path" or "religion" where they insist on parking their brain at the door or putting on blinkers like a race horse and only see things in one very specific way. I was baptized and raised in the Episcopal Church, started reading tarot and took a temporary witchy path, years later converted to Catholicism, fell away and returned to my pagan path. I never considered anything evil or demonic, even though the church as an institution would, but instead saw it all quite normal to explore and integrate into my life as more "tools" to deepen my spirituality. After all, Christianity is so pagan based! I do understand the joy and passion of starting a new spiritual journey. I felt the same when I was an aspirant to a cloistered religious order. Yes, I would have been the only tarot slinging nun around! But not once then nor now has it ever occurred to me to demean other paths or feel the need to strip away what has made me who I am and am still becoming. And now, in spite of following my pagan path fully, I have no problem reading the Desert Fathers or Merton, or the life of a saint, learning from them, keeping my eyes and ears open for whatever messages are meant for me, just as I would with my Norse Pantheon. I have always felt that the world is full of many tribes and it would only be natural that we follow different paths to the divine. That none are completely correct and none are wrong, so long as one is not harming another or themselves. In the end, when we die, if there is something beyond, I think we are all in for a big surprise! Just my thoughts! I wish her well, but I hope her heart opens wide for spirituality is a big and wonderous place and all paths should be respected.
Well done Kelly-Ann. Very therapeutic video for me. I'm still working to free myself from Christian thinking, years after I left it. What I call 'worm theology' The, 'we are so unworthy' crap. This is SO damaging and can lead to suicide. Does the Christian then feel bad for leading someone to kill themselves? NO! They then say that person has committed another sin by taking there life!! I remember saying to a Christian, 'This is not free will! It's more like Christ has a gun to your head. 'Believe in me, or "BANG" Go to hell'.
Debbie your comment is very therapeutic. You are listing all the reasons why I know I should not even be entertaining the thought of going back to it. It is really something to try to get freed from that toxic frame of mind. I know some of the people on here are giving me a bit of backlash for my earlier comment. But I'll take that backlash if it will help me stay on the right track. I am so glad we are having this conversation right now. It is exactly what I am dealing with at this time. Everything happens for a reason.
Blessings to you Viraix V. Always be you. I've often thought about doing a video reversal of the Christian conversion video, about how I'm now more free. Don't think I could cope with the back lash though lol. Maybe one day.
M S I can completely relate to this early "inner knowing" of the truth. It happened one Sunday morning for me while I was in Sunday school. I remember it being around about when I was in the primary age class. Because I remember the locations of the rooms and which rooms were for which age groups. I begin crying in class and the Sunday school teacher asked me what was wrong. I told her I did not believe I was going to heaven. She said, "You're a good girl aren't you? You do what your parents say? You believe in Jesus Christ? You believe he rose from the dead blah blah blah blah blah?" I told her yes. She says, "Then what's wrong?" And I just remember continually reiterating to her while crying that I just did not believe I was going to heaven. Even at that early age, I knew something was wrong. I just didn't know what. And finding myself in a tug-of-war with that old dogmatic religion even to this day is really sickening to me. But I'm working through it.
Debbie: the night before I watched this video by Elyse I had a horrible dream (nightmare) about worms. I kept wondering what it meant. I think you just answered it. Thank you!
Same experience here and I feel the same way. 🙏
Firstly, Kelly your shirt is absolutely divine.
I really enjoyed Elyse's channel. I feel hurt more than disappointed, angry, or betrayed but at the same time I hope she is happy. I think when this happens in this community there is a type of mourning process we go through. As much as we received comfort and joy from the individual it's a hard pill to swallow to realize we won't be able to go back to that person for guidance and support at a time when we need it most. In fact that person you'd seek support from is now demonizing your chosen coping mechanism. I think that it's important to remember no matter how many like minded individuals you find in this community your journey and path is individual and unique to your own experiences. One cannot allow another persons choices and experience color their whole world.
Alright on to watching the rest of your video. 💖
Havana J HI So very well put I felt the same as you, watched her videos they were always so uplifting ,less then half way through I had too shut the video off I was getting so annoyed , I too came from a very conservative Christian backround, I deal constantly in my own family from my sister and sometimes from my ex spouse abusive rhetoric and ignorance that's so unbecoming of supposable "Christians" that I wonder sometimes how they don't become a turn off towards there Faith with such intolerance . I can understand that she's excited in her new found faith again and I wish her Happiness. But God, or the Divine Blesses us with all different gifts through this life and beyond this one too. I Hope she finds the peace she is looking for, just was taking back a little to be in this community for as long as she was to go out and deny our Peace. I did go back and finish the video, never think she would pull it. LOVE AND BLESSINGS TO YOU ❤❤❤
When Kelly-Ann says, 'I'll be back with a fresh cup of tea,' obviously I have to pause the video and make myself another cuppa ;)
Rambling Witch is my favouite kind of witch. Thanks as always for sharing your thoughts.
Thank you. You have verbalized how I was feeling and the empathy you have for those of us who left the rigidity of Christianity. I had enjoyed her channel but gave her the respect of listening to her reasons until she started calling other gods & goddesses demons & her view about the New Age movement. I couldn’t listen after that because I knew where that was headed but I feel better listening to your response.
So, so, grateful for this video, Kelly-Ann. I was talking about Elyse's decision with my husband and started crying. I loved, loved, her content and had gotten two readings from her in that past that resonated so deeply with me. I couldn't even finish her testimonal video yesterday and at the time I wasn't sure why I kept clicking away to other things. Coming back today and watching your video, it really hit me that I'm hurt and I'm still healing from the Christian teachings I was brought up in and tried so hard to conform to, but just couldn't. I was triggered when Doreen announced her decision, and it's happening all over again only this time a lot closer to home with Elyse.
I decided to do what you did and ask myself what can I learn from this, what is all this showing me? And for me, it was a realization that although I still have some healing work to do, I've come a long fucking way from where I've been. I too want to celebrate! Celebrate and honor where I am now on my soul's journey and look back on my own experiences with Christianity, take a deep breath, and acknowledge the lessons, and be fucking proud of myself for choosing to walk away from a way of life that was not healthy or beneficial for me!
Thank you, thank you, thank you
Berne Carman
Babe, YES!! I am so happy that you are going to take this opportunity to marvel at how far you’ve come - how perfect! 💋👍🏻💖👌🏻🤗 Well done, and I hope you can work through this jarring experience as productively and swiftly as possible. I commend your work and your journey! X
You hit the nail on the head....”go silently” I couldn’t agree more. 💗
@Monica Merino she didn't say she didn't matter anymore.. She's just stating go silently and not bash everyone on the way. Read things properly. Who's the snowflake really huh?
I’m not even halfway through the video but here i am in your comments can I just say first, that blouse and that hair and those red accent pieces! Own it! I love you so much Kelly-Ann. When I saw your comment on my video and how you said you would be making a Video Response I was like 🙌🏽😍 I fan-girled. You’re everything and I truly mean it. Thank you for your wonderful insight and support! Okay back to watching the rest of this video.... ❤️
I'm so glad I watched this on the 60 inch! It NEEDED a BIG screen for the big messages in it! Way to go Kelly for yet again putting it so eloquently.
I was in denial of the triggers. I freed myself so long ago, I thought “this can’t touch me.” Thank you for holding space for us.
Ash Red
Thank you for your strength. X
I was raised a Jehovah's witness, instilled with fear of demons and Satan etc... and while it didn't trigger me (a lot of water has passed under the bridge) I feel deeply sympathetic towards any of her followers that it has triggered, it can be like rubbing salt in a wound.
I loved your video on Doreen Virtue and I love this video too... so much respect for your ethical and compassionate views. 💜
clio 76
Yes!! I was raised Jehovah’s Witness as well, and oh my - THE TRAUMA. It took me many, many, years to unravel the guilt and fear that I grew up with. It’s been amazing to find a relationship with the Divine without feeling wounded.🙏💕
I'm still trying to make my way through the comments but I wanted to stop and thank you, Kelly-Ann, for making this video. Thank you for watching Elyse's video and taking notes. Thank you for your perspective and your way with words. There is so much empowerment in this message especially for those of us who have been bludgeoned by toxic christianity... which is probably most of us, at least here in the US. Much love and many many thanks!
The title made me nervous, I thought you were quitting, don't scare me like that! :p
Atomic Topher 😅😂
Atomic Topher
Me too!!! And i just found her so I almost died
Real disappointment is that a person who was empathic, peace-loving, and people loving, denounces all of that and becomes intolerant and caustic.
Caden Rolland Exactly. It feels like a slap in the face to the people who admired her.
Caden Rolland - agreed. It made me so uncomfortable - like I was being schooled in my choices and they were wrong.
Yasss. I was like, WHO IS THIS PERSON?!
Nothing can "make" you uncomfortable. Your feelings belong to you. You make yourself uncomfortable. Nobody has to accept anyone else's choices. Nobody has to be politically correct. Move the fuck on.
That's where it lies with me too. If someone feels like they mesh with another path, especially a theistic one, that's all fine by me. My only problem comes when they use their conversion to feel the need to convert others or in a negative light; like calling atheists pedophiles or goes from being inviting to other groups to supporting homophobic and bigoted ideologies the had previously shamed.
I haven't watched yet but just want you to know I'm really glad you're talking about this. I think many of us have questuons or want to discuss this, but like you said, we don't want to come from a place of judgement or hate. I have no doubt you'll handle this topic with grace and empathy, as you always do ❤
Great video, Kelly Ann. I pretty much feel the same way. I must admit, before I say anything, I wasn't an avid viewer of Elyse's videos. However, as a pagan and witch who has brought Mary Magdalene into my practice and who is looking towards Jesus more and more (not in the way she does, of course!), I was certainly curious about her transition. Because I don't know her, I feel as though it would be really disrespectful and inappropriate for me to psychoanalyse her video on such a public forum, though the psychologist in me was connecting all the dots as I watched. Right now, she is clearly on this massive high now that she's on this new path but that's not going to last...not to the degree that she is experiencing it at the moment, at least. I genuinely hope that this path is everything for her that she says it is. I wish nothing but peace for her and do not want her to experience another let down. It's such a shame because, from what I have seen of her, she is this shiny, bright light that has so much to offer and anyone would be lucky to be her friend, partner, etc. I do take issue with her assertion that people who are new-age - whether that's witches, pagans, or wiccans, etc - live as though everything is ok, that there are no consequences, that we don't recognize that there is evil in the world, etc. I'm sorry but that's bullshit. I find it hard to believe that someone on a new-age path would ever have had that kind of viewpoint, which kind of makes me question what path she was on in the first place. Nothing like mine or anyone else I know, to be sure. Like I said, I wish nothing but the best for her. If anyone else has incorporated traditional Christian influences like Mary Magdalene, Jesus, the Virgin Mary, etc, into their practice, I would be super stoked for you to say hi. We are definitely in the minority on that one. :)
What is Elyse's channel?
Here is the link to her channel but she has since deleted her testimonial video.
czcams.com/channels/wCMVj5zUySGzLcETDIwmAQ.htmlfeatured
Lorelei Hi, I am a Christopagan, lovely to meet you. You are not alone =)
Thank you!!
Hi hon I'm here too🤗🤗🤗
I was a Christian and now I am pagan! Best decision of my life!! Most of my Christian "friends" don't speak to me. Great! The less negativity the better
I would be your friend...🎑
Thank you for this video and holding space for the community. I grew up in a very conservative Christian family and had to extricate myself from it. So for me I found Christianity to be oppressive and controlling especially as a woman. So for me videos like hers are very triggering. I always thought that the Christian god was like an abusive husband - you can’t have any other friends (gods) than me, you must publicly denounce your former ways, you are a terrible horrible person and now jump through these hoops to prove your worth to me.
+Lauri_Tarot
That's somewhat accurate but I think it is more helpful to see these polarities as masculine/feminine instead of authoritarian/nurturing. Or chaos and order can also be a good way of looking at it.
What you call "conservative" people are actually just people who are more concerned with order and structure, things like tradition and boundaries. These are not bad things, as they are actually necessary to the health and well being of any community or society. It can kind of be seen as the father/masculine side of nature, something we all have experience with in our lives and we all typically need in order to be a well rounded individual. It doesn't have to be authoritarian at all.
Liberal or left wing people tend to embody more feminine principles but they can just as easily manifest these traits in an authoritarian way. Something that was seen in the Soviet Union for example. You can use authoritarianism under the umbrella of compassion or equality as well.
Liberal/left seems the be the mother of the political spectrum and it also embodies chaos or the unknown.
There are times when it is good and even necessary to be open and accepting, but there are also times when it is best to set boundaries and establish order. Both things are needed. We have seen the results of countries deciding to take on one extreme or the other and it never works out well.
The Nazis embodied order/masculinity in the extreme and well, we know how that turned out. And the communists embodied chaos/femininity in the extreme and millions of people also died.
It's about having a balance in these things. And learning to see where the other side is coming from and recognizing the ways in which we benefit from each other in the same way you would recognize that you benefit from your mother and father in different ways.
And when I use gendered language here I am not taking about physical, human gender. I am talking about spiritual principles that are found all around us in nature, yin and yang.
I grew up with conservative parents and they were in no way authoritarian. I was more naturally open and liberal but was able to see the ways in which their perspective was sometimes correct and needed. They were always nurturing, but they happened to be more traditional and structured than I was and I appreciate that to this day.
Maybe some conservative parents are authoritarian, but that could just as easily happen with more liberal parents as well.
To say that conservative parents "prize authoritarianism more than compassion" is just a very biased and ignorant view that hasn't been thought through or explored in a fair way. You're writing off an awful lot of people based on what seems to be your own personal bad experience.
Often it can be the compassionate thing to do to be intolerant or to not accept something, especially if this thing is bad for your loved one. Sometimes being compassionate means being strict or setting down strong borders.
Brianna Larson I know where you are coming from but your reply seemed only to address the commenters' family experience in a way that judged that. We cannot judge that experience because we didn't experience it. I would only say there is a fine line between setting boundaries and oppression. Parents have to walk that line every day because the impact of their behaviour persists. Not every parent gets it right. It's a skill that has to be learnt over time as no child comes with an instruction book. It is the role of every adult to learn how to parent themselves, and if their childhood was difficult, that will carry on into their own relationships in adulthood. So those wanting to be parents should strive to be what they want to see in their child. That means for example, setting boundaries in healthy ways; having emotional control; communicating effectively; being consistent, and compassion. The latter surprising is the hardest to attain. We forget what it was like to be a child or a teenager. Compassion for oneself and your child is the most powerful tool in building a positive relationship between you. Without that, the day to day frictions grow into conflicts and relationships break down. That is what I sense happened from the commenter's post. Sometimes these things leave a legacy.
This comment is fucking powerful.
BigHenFor thanks for your thoughtful response. The person above makes a lot of assumptions and judgments without knowing the full picture.
Im Christian... How am I supposed to feel oppressed??? I am taught God's way and its my choice to follow or not! If God is a controlling husband then why does his word say his mercy and grace and forgiveness is out of love if u make a mistake and do something wrong. Yes something wrong because most of the laws of the land are based on the same commandments in the bible. Murder, stealing, lying, adultery.... Ect
Tarot doesn't FIX problems. it helps you try to fix them. trying to gain something from a tool without doing the work is no one's fault but our own
Also who can follow a God that puts rules on you. Send you to hell if you love the wrong person. No thank you
Couldn't agree with this more! No amount of decks collected or readings done in a day will do the work automatically.
I was raised a Hindu and went to a Christian school where I was constantly told that I was going to go to hell. It was hard enough being a teenager trying to adjust to a new country. I made a decision then that I could not follow a God that would turn their back on me for being different.
@@Emmastayofftheinternet God doesn't send u to hell he just can't allow u into his kingdom and paradise if ur are not his following child but then ur option is where Satan sends u. But u all seem to have a good relationship with Satan so maybe he promises u a paradise called hell or maybe he calls it something else. If u trust Satan and where he will send ur soul then put ur life in Satan's hands. Good luck 😊
@@devonsspiritualquest2930 he didn't turn his back on u.... He brought the truth to u to save u from the wrong path that will lead to devistation
Thank you for this. If I'm honest, I did feel a kind of way when I watched the testimonial and in the weeks leading up to it. I thought I was being less than generous by feeling angry with this situation. I am angry. This "demonic" path you were on paid the bills for you and yours . WE paid your bills and now you are judging me??? Of course leave it to K.A.M. to break it down for me.❤ You do you, Elyse...but don't step on those of us who are perfectly content on our own paths. Demonic? The only thing demonic in my household is the stack of dirty dishes in my sink😅😅 Love your beautiful fucking soul, Kelly Ann !!!!!
This is what bothers me the most. She took money for these "demonic" services, but then glossed over that by saying she was "blessed" by her business. Um. Hm. What??? I'm sure she's trying to soothe ruffled feathers, but if I really thought I'd exposed people to demonic stuff, and that was a bad thing, I wouldn't be worried about placating people. I'd be like "NO, they are demonic and you need to stop! This is dangerous! Seriously, get away! now!" Because that's what people do who think they've harmed someone and really care.
My only demonic thing in my household is the stack of dirty dishes. That’s hilarious !!! Thank you.
I have tried to stay silent on Elyse's transition, but it's actually really affected me. I'm still reeling... I really appreciate that you took time out of your day to address this topic, and that you clearly realise that this can be a difficult time for some people. My own reaction has caught me off guard.
I left the Christian church 3 years ago and have been doing lots and lots of shadow work and searching. And my Christian experience is part of my shadow work. Before I became a Christian I was happy and I did what I wanted and loved my life. I still had trials and disappointments. But I danced in the rain played in the dirt, loved the dark, listened to dark music, and I felt that I had the power to do what I wanted. I believed in nature and had amazing dreams. I collected things and believed I had the power to do what I wanted with my life. Till one day someone told me I was a sinner and going to Hell. As an empath being told I was evil and hurting God and others, made me feel awful. Fear drove me to the Christian faith. And fear kept me believing for 22 years. I had a tragic event that completely opened my eyes. I realized that I was pretending to be someone I was not for fear that I would be punished by God. So I left quietly. I went back to the way I was as a child. I decided that my spiritual practice is my own and can be whatever I want it to be. I have one son that is a devout Christian and I can see his struggles and the fear that haunts him and it breaks my heart. I just started watching videos about witches and pagan beliefs. This ladies video came up and I was thinking wow they told her she was evil and it worked. It’s sad 😞. Thank you for your video explaining this whole ordeal. I think you were more than gracious. Christianity is scared people scaring people. It’s completely based on fear. And that is so sad.
I would like to know where she got the idea that everything is good and everything okay to mess around with. Never have I ever seen, read, or heard that regarding most pagan and new age beliefs. This is were I feel that she did not understand her "religion" at all and was not looking within herself but focusing only on the "fun" aspects of the new age.
wikedwitch80 I totally agree with you even I, being luciferian and working with demons if you will, realize that there are some spirits and demons that I should not bother with, and that is simply because I recognize that somethings are not for me too engage in. That does not mean that someone else cannot work with those particular entities. It doesn't mean that I am demonic. I just get better results sometimes for certain areas of my life working with those Ancient Energies. And it does not mean that I forsake The Goddess or The God or Mother Earth. I still work with all of them.
I keep seeing a lot of videos popping up stating that people are being too harsh about the choice to move from new age/pagan beliefs to Christianity and that it really just stems from people hating Christianity or being uncomfortable about it, and its so frustrating because that attitude is so dismissive and people being upset with Elyse's testimony is much more complicated. There were a lot of really awful judgemental views shared in that video and people are rightly upset about it and I appreciate you adding that to the discourse. Great video, I definitely don't think you were being an arse.
I’m 64 and STILL get triggered by xtian dogma. On top of that I live in a small town where they would not just shun me but delight in doing damage to me if they knew I was pagan. One example is a group here banned together to try to prove me unfit and incompetent as my adult daughters 24/7 caregiver. Now try to convince me that THAT’S not “evil, demonic, etc”. This is 2020 and I am not free to express my truth for fear of having my daughter removed from her home and thrown into an institution. If she were physically able to travel we would move. And when we arrived here when she was still healthy enough to travel I had NO CLUE I was dropping into a vicious group of people who believe that everyone who doesn’t believe like them should be murdered or put away. I fell like I’ve been dropped into a war zone on another planet. Thank you very much for this video and reminding me that I’m not the only one still wishing freedom from a close minded system.
She deleted the video today before I could watch the whole thing. I was about 15 minutes in, so I didn't see much of it. I saw this change coming when she took down her altars back in January or February. I unsubscribed back then because I didn't want to see what was to come, but then today my curiosity got the best of me. I was wondering what happened and wow... I wasn't expecting her to say we are all following a demonic path. I peeked at her instagram recently and saw the changes happen there and I commented telling her that I'm happy for her though I'll miss her videos. I heard she had deleted them all from another you tuber. I didn't realize at that moment that she had gone so far into the zealot side of Christianity and I dm'd her to say that I had a friend who is a Christian, but she owns and runs a metaphysical shop and uses her beliefs to teach her children how all these metaphysical practices can be linked back to Christianity. She even finds ways to link other deities back to Christianity, which doesn't work for me, but to each their own. I was just offering her a new resource and she blocked me instantly. I had read a couple of comments where she said she wasn't sure what some of her experiences were. I thought maybe this would help her... I guess not! 😂
I've never watched your videos before, but you are so well spoken that I had to subscribe. I'm glad one good thing came from this and that was me finding you. I'm happy to replace her videos with yours at this point. I found your video thanks to Rose at the cackling moon, someone mentioned you in the comments. I look forward to watching more. 💖
Marilynn Casida
You did absolutely nothing wrong in offering that resource, and it sounds like your friend with the shop has a fascinating journey! 😮🤗😁
Thanks for subbing! Nice to have you along for the ride! X
Marilynn, how cool to happen to come upon your comment here, my friend! All things come full circle!
The thing I appreciate about some Christian practice is the emphasis on devotional work. It reminds me of Bhakti yoga that most people are familiar with because of the Hare Krishna movement. But I would urge Christians to read the Bhagavad Gita after they read the New Testament. Then go back and read the Gospels...and I doubt you'll feel the Christian way is to tear other people down and judge them.
I'm not Christian - I'm a witch and have been for 30 years. But I read widely and my thoughts on the New Testament were that the mythology was familiar and Jesus made some excellent points. It's a shame Christians don't actually follow him. He said don't judge. Don't be materialistic. Don't trust people with worldly power because it's not really real. The kingdom of God is within you. (ie...not through a priest or a building). I can't fault him. But I haven't met a Christian who actually follows his teaching.
Karmically I think it's bad that essentially, many churches stand between people and their God. I have always been very bothered by that and so when I teach my energy healing courses, I am always very aware that many people come to the New Age as refugees from a paradigm that's decimated their spirit and set them at odds with themselves. If people followed Jesus' actual teaching, I don't think they'd experience that same damage.
So I would say to people if you're drawn to Christ, that's great - be careful of people who tell you what they think he meant rather than what he said or did. If Jesus says don't judge and your Church tells you to judge gays for example, who will you choose to follow????
(Sorry for the essay...I feel strongly about this!)
Well said, from someone who follows & believes the teaching of Jesus, but NOT church dogma. Love the Creator, and love each other...how hard IS this? Churches preaching hate against anyone, or instilling fear to control the masses, are not following his teachings.
I got my own beliefs based on a lifetime of spiritual research, and I do not need a church to tell me what to believe, and what not to.
Kelly-Ann putting her torchlight in the dark corners is why we're here! Cardslinger as genuine teacher. Thank you for your honesty, Lady Maddox. 🌙
Thank you for punctuating the difference between "persecution" and "receiving nasty messages from some people".
First off, well said. There is no chance of you ever changing, at all. You're very much in your true element, what you were born to be. Ty. "Polishes pentacle"
And of course, the first thing they teach you when you convert to this brand of Evangelical Christian is that you will be "challenged by demons trying to dissuade you from the path", by which of course they mean any person (usually a well-meaning friend or peer) who will try and figure out what's going on with you and possibly disagree with your new belief system.
And, just saying honestly- Jesus would never do a testimonial condemning others from some isolated pulpit that only broadcasted but didn't receive. It's one thing to dialogue with others in person, and to discuss beliefs and ideas with other people that have the ability to respond, etc. but to just create a video where basically you are given a platform for your views with no one to converse with you (disagree with you, challenge you, dialogue with you, engage with what you are saying) is not the way to genuinely reach people. It's fear mongering. And it's wrong to do that to other people, which comes down to ethics and compassion for others, which is what Jesus Christ was all about. I'm seeing too much fear-mongering from isolated platforms in the world right now, especially here in the US, and my tolerance of it is gone because it's created so many problems that are ripping people apart.
Jesus wasn't in the habit of washing his hands of others who followed different paths, either.
I wish Christians would spend some time actually studying the teachings of Jesus Christ (not the Bible, but Jesus Christ). There's such a disconnect there that does such a disservice to so much good.
thank you!!
I feel that Jesus and his teachings have been butchered and bludgeoned by all forms of Christianity throughout history! His name is used to force political/gender control over most of the world..
Jesus was supposed to be about love, acceptance of everyone, belief in ones self. That is how you find light in your spiritual path! Not fear, control, hate, and segregation which is what Christian politicians force upon us!
I think your video was definitely well said💜 I have been trying to figure out why the testimonial irked me. I tried to tell myself that I shouldn’t care what path someone follows; more power to them. However, I realized that this did bring up a lot of religious baggage. You are absolutely correct in stating that this is a wonderful time for us to do a bit of shadow work and to celebrate our current path. Love your videos as always💕
"I wet myself because Satan was outside but it was really a strong wind." HAHA! Kelly-Ann! LOL Oh my Goddess, that is too funny. I got so much more from this video, don't get me wrong, but that comment!
Blessed be, well there sre alot of pressures there, I am exmuslim and I converted to Wicca because I read about it and I loved it, but you don't know how do I live in a muslim country, i am obliged to practise Islam and let me tell you it is horrible !
Good for you that you followed your way!!! Don't give up and the best of luck to you.
I laughed all the way through your video. I am in awe of your thoughts and the way you express them. I have been following Elyse for a long time and wish her the best on her new path. I disagree on one thing with you Kelly Ann. I am glad she posted her video (which is down now) and explain what she was going through. I think it was courageous of her and owed it to the her followers who supported her all these years. Obviously, she chose a path which separates and discriminates but, like in every community, the pure heart wins. I wish her to keep a pure heart. It is obvious that by denouncing the community as evil worshippers that I will no longer watch any of her postings as I just have no more interest in her message.
I think that it would have been better to post a video after maybe writing down some key points or a loose script, a succinct message would have been better than a long winded stream of consciousness type of video. In any case there were a lot things that would have been better left out...
A simple: "Hey, I used follow this path, I now follow this path and this is how I feel about it..." something like this would have given closure... But what's done is done.
The only thing that I can say on the matter is that I felt very sad for her. I wish her nothing but peace, but the whole video seemed like a long discourse by someone who's struggling desperately to find something to fill a hole within. I fear that years from now she's going to be in the same position, though for her sake I hope that is not the case.
Sovereign Self yes, that’s exactly how I felt.... desperately searching. I find it so very sad...
I agree with that. She seems lost.
Same, felt like she was trying to convince herself.
"the whole video seemed like a long discourse by someone who's struggling desperately to find something to fill a hole within.“ Exactly.
I felt that too. I only watched a few minutes before I found it too sad and too uncomfortable to continue. I still feel like she's searching and clutching at anything to feel better
When I watched Elyse's video,I saw a struggling soul,a soul trying to find their way to peace and light. But as I listened,I also heard the disregard & disrespect for others and their life experiences, the ignorance of moral philosophy and ethics, the callous and callow evangelizing that chills me to the core. Why? Because as a student of history,I know where all that "othering" leads. Thank you Kelly-Ann for holding the space,for enlarging the conversation and,I suspect, a few hearts & minds.
So well said! I love Jesus & my spiritual practice. It doesn't have to be one or the other.
Yes!!!!!!
Exactly
Thank You! My head is spinning with this because I want to try it out but not the way they want me too
I still recognize Jesus Christ and God, but I also practice the craft for the good to do away with evil.
@@patricksaxon3983 I truly love that
So we'll said Kelly-Ann! I'm so glad you're sticking up for our community!! The problem with the testimony was that it was denigrating to our path. And that came from someone we considered a leader in our community, someone we had invested in, either in time or money. Thank you for expressing that so well!
Didn't trust her after I saw she followed tomi lahren on ig lol
Krystal Peralta Oh HELL to the NO! 😱
Kelly-Ann Maddox yep it was super disappointing, as I really enjoyed her channel when I first started getting into witchy CZcams 😞
Ewwwwww
who is Tomi Lahren? sorry I still new to a lot of Instagram stuff.
Jujube Hexx She's a professional bigot who started out doing social media rants and then started getting paid to spew hate on Fox News.
I loved every word of this video. Humurous, intelligent, sensitive - and gave me space as a person who’d been feeling rather “shut up” by previous opinions implying there’s only one “right” way to feel about the whole event. There’s only one thing I would add. It’s not only people who used to be in fundamentalist Christianity who could feel uncomfortable feelings around this. I’ll explain. Since about 5 years of age I have had strong psychic experiences, and always have been attuned to the “other side”. I was brought up Christian (I don’t believe in boxes so I don’t see myself as having “left” it but...) and even had a stint as a “born again” variety. I tried my best and really studied the bible as hard as I could. I asked awkward questions (all the Christians hated that), asked what other people thought, generally chewed it over. I found that much as I envied devout people for their strong faith, I simply could not twist my brain around the whole thing. So I found my own eclectic path. Along the way I got into tarot. I am a quiet, hermit-like person and I don’t have anyone around me who is “like me”. My family hasn’t got an esoteric bone in their body and if I try to bring anything up they act embarrassed and change the subject or just look blank and uncomfortable. I have one friend who likes to talk woo with me, but she lives far away and is only interested, not really a fellow woo person. I work in a super conventional setting, and if I gave away any sign of my interests I doubt I’d last long there. The ONLY thing I have that supports me, tells me I’m not “crazy” etc is the internet community. So in a funny way people who put out a lot there I guess begin to feel like a virtual “family” to me. I used to listen to Elyse a lot. Then she disappeared a little from CZcams. I didn’t think much of it, people get busy. Occasionally I used to look at her instagram so I thought I’d have a look there instead. I was used to seeing cards and inspirational quotes. When I suddenly saw bible quotes appearing there I have to admit I was so deeply shocked and upset at this sudden, total change out of nowhere that it really surprised me. Then added to that it felt like I was getting the message from others that this was wrong as a reaction, that I should feel happy and fine about it all.
About Testimonies. I’ve seen the titles now of many. What even is the POINT of doing one? The believers already believe. The non believers aren’t going to be impressed. I kind of get it (it boosts the morale of the believers I suppose) but ultimately I don’t get it. They all have very similar titles, and those titles also I don’t get. Why should “new ager” and “Jesus-loving Christian” be mutually exclusive? I know the text book answer to that but my heart disagrees.
So there you go - there are as many possible reactions and reasons for them as there are stars in the sky. There’s probably more to say but I’m also beginning to see the amount of energy the subject is taking from me as negative. So many thanks for giving a wider range of people a voice, it was much needed and appreciated.
SpiritWing
I’m glad that the video helped and thanks for sharing your story. X
She was given a heads up about her path shift through Tarot?? By who the demons?🤔🤣 ok Im going to get petty so I better go for my morning walk to commune with my evil pagan ways.
Erica Cutter I thought the same exact thing when I watched her video! 😂😂
Brilliant. I’m rather the one who goes on without being too affected so especially appreciate you are holding space for others in the community. Great points. Respectful and all encompassing. X
m.czcams.com/video/Wh1VU-_OF98/video.html
I really like your point of view in this video! I am actually a Christian witch and I cannot understand how someone could make witchcraft or Wicca etc as evil or worshiping the devil! What I find difficult about my belief is that it does not fit into either! I am very lucky to have a Christian family that accepts me for who I am and what I believe! I think everyone has a unique spiritual journey but Christians a often very narrow minded!
You're more like Jesus than they are! 🎑
Amen to this 🙌💓 Honestly, I wholeheartedly agree with everything you’ve touched on in this video, and I thank you for discussing the truly weird feelings that naturally come from what’s occurred here with Elyse’s transition and testimonial. I’ve gotten readings from Elyse, and I talked with her many times. I liked to think of her as an acquaintance-like internet-friend as well as a guide and a source of inspiration. Her readings for me were far from harmful; they were joyful and warm and empowering. I love the way you ended this video with a sense of celebration for your own path, as I felt the same after processing Elyse’s testimonial video. Although it is nearly impossible for me to fathom how someone can allow themselves to assume with overwhelming certainty that because the Spirit with whom they connect feels to be a specific spirit, that this means everyone is really or should be connecting with that same spirit (or else) ... there was one part of her video that made me open my heart wide and forget that terribly weird feeling under my skin, and it was when Elyse described the loving and free and true connection she was experiencing by hearing God within her, and that’s because I know just what that feels like, but obviously in my own (witchy) way. I’m also privileged to have grown up without organized religion in my life, and I’ve communicated with that Source within all my life, only realizing the depth of this experience in my mid and now late 20s. It’s the most beautiful and significant aspect of my life, and to know Elyse has found that makes me happy for her. I would have appreciated less demon theories etc. also but like you, I felt I could see clearly that she had a fundamental lack of understanding about this path and that Christianity is what will fulfill her. I only hope that she might widen her view of it in time and allow it to be a more expansive understanding that perhaps integrates the best parts of her past beliefs, as I always took her to be an amazingly compassionate person and admired her devotion to the divine feminine, and I hope that helps to eventually cancel out some of the less compassionate and rigidly hyper-masculine aspects of Christianity ... but ultimately, it’s her path. Anyway, thank you, Kelly-Ann, for making this video. Your insights are always a blessing.
Kelly you are truly a bad ass and I would be devastated if you left your path and took all of your content off. I would not be able to deal with it because you helped me find myself. Thank you for always talking about everything and never stop please. Blessed be.
I didn’t know about this woman, just binge watching KAM videos. Your comments have really helped me process my feelings about family members who have turned evangelical Christian.
I'm re-watching this, and I get to "I'm back... the tea is fresh, the candles is fresh, I'm ready and feeling refreshed, so let me carry on..." and I'm just like, Lol, you're such a great human. I love how real and down to earth you are. You're just amazing. X D
Love the idea of New Age testimonials. LOL - Seriously, a brilliant video. I don't mind when anyone finds a different path - what I do mind and have a problem with is that the very people who made money by "preaching" New Age type shade, start bashing us. I feel they should just keep their mouth shut - move on, and leave the evil New Age bashing out of it. Agree, Elise didn't harm anyone of her clients through reading Tarot. I love my path, and I am proud that I have the Goddesses in my life.
Lynn S
Totally - it’s amazing how quickly people forget who they owe for what they have.. Moving on and changing is not a crime, but there is a way to do it respectfully and a way to do it distastefully.
Exactly
Lovely video to the situation. I am sure it will help others. I had the same thought that she connected to the safest male energy she could have a relationship with. Anyway, I am one of those that escaped that faith and all through that time I felt Mother Earth, but that is a different path or a totally different story. May we all find the right path for our selves. Cheers
This is probably the best video I have seen on this topic. Aho Sister. You command of eloquence is medicine to the heart ♥️
I so needed to hear this. Happy for her too but disappointed w her speech. It floored me but this brought me back up!
I've said it 1000 times, to coworkers, family and friends. We don't need to say every thing we are thinking. When something is going to hurt others its not only reckless but its selfish to verbalize every thought to people who have supported and cared for you. Some things, when hurtful, are better left unsaid. I understand her need to share her newfound happiness but she could have done that without throwing everyone else under the bus...but isn't that what so many "Christians" do. Their way is the "right" way and the rest of us worship and work with demons. I am not surprised. Thank you for offering comfort and support in a way that is not hurtful to anyone.
Kelly-Ann, THANK YOU for speaking up with your take on this. You make some very good & important points. I loved Elyse's tarot videos, and thanks to her I rediscovered my love for Tarot! Her videos gave me so much joy. However, upon watching her "Testimony" video, it was upsetting to hear all the negative descriptions of the "reality" of her life (before finding Jesus Christ) that never really made it into her videos. She made hundreds of videos about the wonders of Tarot, her path with Tarot & spiritual exploration, and then denounced all of it by sharing how miserable, depressed and anxious she truly was... how actually she was addicted to the boyfriends or the idea of finding love from another that would finally make her feel loved & complete/codependency... how an open exploration of Spirituality failed her and left her feeling empty... etc. When I heard all of this, I felt betrayed, lied to. When one acts as a professional on social media, has a business with paying customers, customers whom she reads for and provides support to, says, "Hey folks, um, sorry, that was all bullshit, dangerous, potentially evil business, and I removed all my videos because they have nothing to do with who I am now," it's disturbing. Most disturbing to me is the zeal with which she's flipped, the black/white thinking of Christianity/Jesus as the ONLY God, and the "I'm nothing" talk, and God has saved me, etc. Based on the historical info she provided her her testimonial, she has a lot of wounding and likely needs psychological support. If Jesus is making her feel better right now, Great! But the euphoric state she's claimed to be in since being "saved" will not last. The only thing we can rely on as human beings is that everything (including ourselves) is always changing. It was a shock to the system when she removed all of her youtube videos without so much as an "FYI, I'm going to be removing all of my content..." One day they were there, the next they were gone. People can have Christianity AND Tarot in their lives; it doesn't have to be one or the other. It would appear that she's "thrown the baby out with the bath water," and it's a shame she's so short-sighted and doesn't realize that she'll continue to change and grow (at least I hope she does!), and this experience is just one of many she will have in her spiritual journey throughout the rest of her life. Anyway, I wish I had more time to refine my thoughts. I wish her all the love in the world, and I would never wish her anything bad, as she always presented with love & light that that was inspiring. But your thoughts are important, and it was brave of you to speak up in the manner you did. I appreciate it!
Hi Garnet Moon Tarot, that was well said. Thank you Love n light gaynor xxx
Brilliant video as always Kelly-Ann.
"Dancing with us by the light of the moon with satan..." 😂😂😂
I cackled. And I'm in a hotel. Please dont make me cackle with satan again or I'm gonna get a noise complaint 😈
You ever dance wirh the devil in the pale moon light?
That was the best!
HA! So much for her NOT watching your video! LOL! Thank you Kelly-Ann for putting out there "every" point we've been trying to make all over the place. Blessings to you for your level headness, insight and overall level of fairness.
Yes, go silently.... you summed it up perfectly.
Eliza West exactly
I agree that it's what is called triggering, to hear people tell you that Christ is the only way, when you grew up in an oppressive and hurtful Christian environment. I felt a complete sense of freedom when I left that religion, and someone telling me that I am wrong is uncomfortable.
Especially as someone who left Christianity and has come to this kind of lifestyle, to be reminded of this sort of oppressive stuff.
Brilliant video. The only thing that I can add that no one else seem to touch on is that Elyse mentioned that her sister had converted first and she was afraid to lose her relationship with her sister. If I remember correctly, in some of her videos she had talked about how her sister had turned her on to oracle and tarot cards, and she also mentioned that they still read for each other frequently. I think her sister was a huge influence on her recent decision. I hold no grudges, or feel hurt in any way, just more or less surprised. I do wish Elyse and her sister blessings on their new paths and I truly hope they find what makes them happy. Thank you for making this space.
Wow! This was a very even and intellectual conversation, one that wasn’t set out to damn anyone, but to soothe and educate. I was nervous clicking on this because I don’t enjoy content that “bashes” other people, but I was so pleasantly surprised to find a video that was very Temperance like! I’ve never seen you before, but I really enjoy your energy. New subbie!☺️💕
Fairy Wisdom Tarot
Nice to meet you, darling! Thanks for giving the video a chance! I would have been wary of it too! X
I was interested in psychology due to my very Christian upbringing, & I learned that anything that keeps you in a fog (Fear. Obligation. Guilt) is an abusive or dysfunctional relationship- in a church, at home, work, marriage, or any other relationship ever... It saddens me to hear that people feel guilty over their cleansing rituals or other “witchy” habits/lifestyle... No higher power should make any person feel ashamed for their life as long as it does not harm them. I find that some religions tend to shame/blame (scapegoat) & punish/turn-away people rather than help people search their dark, shadow-self for healing & revealing. I am newer to witchcraft, but I understand a lot of values of the “major” religions & understand various facets of psychology, & I think you have a lot of good points on this topic; abusers tend to follow the same patterns & you see the ripples in their followers/enablers, there is a lingo & behaviors you can observe, & when you talk about how she responded, I got chills because it sounds like she is in a double-bind because she is thinking very rigidly (black & white thinking essentially). You are right that people have their own path to healing, & I think no matter the structure of religion, if there are rotten apples in positions of power (tending towards men in Christianity), it can become a toxic environment for people who dwell in it.
I find this so crazy. I was raised and confirmed Catholic BUT I still do tarot, I believe in my witchy ways. I believe being a witch is still in my blood despite the religion I was brought up in and comfortable in. I have steered very outside of the religion and I believe that my actual spirituality doesn’t sit JUST in Catholicism. It sat in so much more connecting with the earth and indulging in so many of the positive vibes and research and wanting to learn EVERYTHING...to watch someone completely switch over and denounce it....it angers me. I don’t just work with Michael the archangel and the blessed mother, I also work with Hel and Isis. I can’t grasp my head on it and i know people may look at me weird because of how I choose to identify my path, but i find it very fulfilling balancing both the catholic religion and my witchy path. I’m also Puerto Rican i was raised with kinda both worlds around me. It’s so nurturing and for me personally I’m glad I found that spirituality. And I agree, it’s so damaging no matter what you believe in to send anyone to links to hateful websites. LOVE IS LOVE no matter what. And we need to encourage love and support for all.
Kelly, Thank You so much for talking about this subject. When I watched her video I was uncomfortable for all the reasons you brought up. I feel you gave me some tools to work with this. I appreciate your time you put into this. So much Love to you!!!
I agree that most people that seem to be doing conversion videos from pagan or new age religions to Christianity talk about thier past religion in a way that shows they didn't really have an understanding of it. It look like they were often doing in it for mainly superficial reasons instead of seeking the divine which they claim to have been doing.
wikedwitch80 agreed..I felt that she didn't really understand much about pagan beliefs and witchcraft!
Thank you for this video. I am also happy and supportive of all spiritual paths that don't harm others. Yet, some of her words did trigger me. In fact, I just went through an intensive PTSD therapy (Cognitive Processing Therapy) where I had to work with my mental healthcare provider to re-teach myself that evil is the choice of man, not a supernatural power possessing a person. For years I defended my abuser saying he couldn't help it, he was possessed by "evil." This led to panic attacks, fearing evil could strike anyone at any time. I finally re-taught myself that no, actually man makes the decision for evil and my abuser (an all others) are completely responsible for the harm they commit. It wasn't my fault, it wasn't fate, and I wasn't created by God to be hurt by demons. Her words attempted to unfold this incredibly true and important belief and I felt the beginnings of a panic attack. I actually had to go back to my therapy workbook to ground myself. Your video helped me counter this for good. Thank you SO much!
It was also not ok to say that the only reason we have morals and know right from wrong is because of her god. Just no. No. Excellent thoughtful video, thank you. Go silently. So much yes to that!
Kelly-Ann....I've always loved your videos, and learned so much when I was new to the tarot. I had to leave a msg to say you are such an articulate speaker, I could listen to you all the time...and this video was great! I completely agree with you! Thanks :)
Thank you for talking about this!! It is such an important conversation!
She popped onto a Facebook tarot group recently after being tagged and her former followers were still so supportive. I had to dig deep to just move on and not tell her to just go the fuck away. Why still lurk about tarot groups if its a demonic practice? I have my conclusions about that. Im all about light, love, and following ones own path but to drag those down you've helped? I have zero tolerance for this behavior. Im 42 and Ive been on my path for many many years so her declaration did not effect me on a personal level but boy did I get upset for those whom I knew would be deeply effected. So thankful you made this video for those who are struggling with this. Seriously Kelly this was so authentic and awesome. Thank you🙏
Side note: You look like the cutest, most put together librarian here and I’m living for it ❤
This was such an inspiring video for me, as many of your videos are for me. I’ve come upon the Path from the Word, and I’m still trying to undo all the damage that the Word has given...all that malarkey about demons and Satan and whatnot. It’s been a hard road, trying to ignore those messages that have buried themselves deep into my psyche. But little by little, and with your help and with Tarot, I’m beginning to come out of it. It is rather like a cult, although those in the Word would heartily disagree. But Tarot is my saving grace, as it were, and I am continuing to bond deeply with my deck, in regular practices and exercises etc. I don’t know what I would have done without Tarot, because the Word was not fulfilling for me and my “relationship with Jesus” was basically a sham, a sleight of hand, and non-existent, no matter HOW hard I tried, or HOW much I prayed, or HOW often I went to Mass or Adoration or said the Rosary or whatever. But with Tarot and other alternate spiritual practices, I feel my soul opening up and my spirit beginning to bloom. I feel like the sun has risen and my garden is coming to life. I actually feel my creativity returning after a long writer’s block of at least 3 years, and probably more, for my ability to create poetry began to slowly decline after I took up the Word about 5 years ago. Looking on it now, I can see that it was a dead end path for me, and that this new Path is life-giving, life-sustaining. Thankfully my husband fully supports me, as does my family and friends, the whole small handful. But I write this to respond to your video, which was also life-giving and quite refreshing and succinct. Thank you, Kelly-Ann, for every video you’ve put out there. I am a huge fan of yours and a day doesn’t go by without me watching something of yours, be it on Tarot or otherwise. I’ve learned so much and I’m in that spot where everything is shiny and sparkly and new. And you’re a part of what sparkles. Thank you for this. I appreciate you.
“I was so terrified because Satan was outside but it was just a strong wind” 🤣
I’m glad you made this video encouraging a conversation. I saw the video and I had so many emotions, even fear. I’m glad it’s not abnormal to feel this way.
My experience has been that bible thumpers can be predatory when they see people vulnerable. It's a shame. Ty for this video. Well wishes to elyse on her new path!
She is now in gods hands. No longer forced to really look at herself and face her fears ( hence the anxiety and nervousness she was talking about )
The problems of our lives are too much for us to have to deal with so you can now sit back and put everything in gods hands he will take care of it all for you.
She finally has a sense of relief it’s like night and day. God is here now to take it all on you are now pure and worthy of love.
The church is notorious in this one technique to pull people in
This anxiety ridden society of lost souls
Spirituality is painful and some people can’t take it
So putting it all in gods trust gives you more of that relief you are yearning for
Kelly-Ann, wow! I love your message, and I just wanted to say thank you.
I was raised Southern Baptist (in the US), and began going to church with my parents at the age of 4 or 5. Though I felt like I was a "true Christian", had accepted Jesus into my heart and had a real relationship with him, the thing which bothered me the most was the expectation placed on me of witnessing to others and the subsequent guilt if you didn't. I was always so shy, especially in my early teens, and I hated the idea of pushing something onto others if they weren't receptive to it and just having to talk to other people in general.
When I turned 18 and got my first job in retail, I finally had my excuse to no longer go to church on Sundays because most likely I'd be working. I basically never looked back, much to the dismay of my parents. At the age of 28 I lost my belief in "God" and "Jesus", which was really scary for me. I remember that day, my brain was on this constant loop of "oh my god, I don't believe in this anymore... oh my god, I'm going to hell for saying that... wait, there IS not hell!" and just on and on as I was startled by just how deep that indoctrination ran. When I finally got over the guilt and weird feeling of being "lost", I felt so free. It was really strange.
I completely understand people feeling Christianity, or any other religion, is needed for them. I also long for a spiritual experience again, so in no way do I intend to make others feel judged by me. However, when someone talks about their Christian life, I have this internal knee-jerk reaction of "oh god, no" and I just want to run away, like someone who's been faced with their abuser again. For the past 10 years I have been trying to figure out WHY I felt this way. I was never abused, physically or otherwise, by anyone in the church, but still I've had to check myself when faced with Christian doctrine by way of people or marquee signs in front of churches as I drive past because I have so much bitterness and resentment.
When I watched this video yesterday, it's like a light bulb came on in my head. I don't dislike the people, I don't dislike the preachers, and I don't regret the way I was raised because my parents were doing what they felt was best, and in general my experience was good. It's the FEAR and the GUILT it instilled in me which makes me bitter.
A couple of months ago, tor the first time in 10 years, I got an overwhelming desire to re-explore my spiritual side by way of tarot cards. And I am loving it! I feel connected to the cards as I'm learning to read, and it feels like coming home in a way. I feel I'm on the brink of a spiritual reawakening. I have always felt I have good intuition, a good judge of character, a rational way of approaching things, and an open mind, but the fear instilled in me from Christianity, the fear of demons, of shiny things which are beautiful and feel like a spiritual experience and connecting to spirit... it's all overshadowed by "Satan is beautiful, and he makes things look attractive, but they aren't good for you, only God is." Even in Tarot I can't help but have that sh*t banging around in my head, darkening my experience.
You succinctly put into words exactly what my issue has been, that my bitterness stems from that fear and the stagnation it causes by not allowing me to see it's safe to move forward. I trust my intuition in all areas of life, except when it comes to the spiritual because of the scarring caused by the fear of demons and eternal damnation.
Thank you for this video. Through this I was able to pinpoint, after all this time, where my issue lies. How the heck do I move forward with it? Therapy? Yep, probably so. Thank you again. I love your videos for the rational, practical, and analytical approach you take. So much balance, and it's something I need because I can so easily get caught up in my head full of fears.
When I began to follow my authentic path as a witch, I DID do a video. It was my response to everyone who asked me (especially my husband) “How I could just turn my back on everything I ever believed?” The fact is, I ALWAYS had problems with it but you hit the nail on the head when you said it was a path that was governed by fear: There is NO OTHER WAY TO GOD BUT THROUGH CHRIST. Ugh. Elyse’s video broke my heart as I spent years undoing the brainwashing I underwent as a child.
You and Wild Moon Woman were literally the first 2 Tarot people I subscribed to one CZcams when I first picked up the cards about 5 years ago. While I’ve never had a personal relationship with Elyse, it was actually jarring to me. I saw her Instagram posts before she dropped the video and I unfollowed, as well. However I did watch the video and there are loads of problematic things in that video, for me personally. I did feel judged, although I do feel that was certainly not her intention, and I actually felt sorry for her. However, I wish her much happiness. It’s upsetting, but it’s not my path and it’s not my choice. That being said, thank you so much for holding space. People gave her money and she helped people and she taught people, but the whole “evil and demonic” thing made me really disgusted because loads of people invested in her practice and paid her bills....if I’m being honest.
I am triggered by all things christianity. Was raised christian and still attend church with my parents occasionally. (Mostly just to do something with them. ) but it is triggering that she could denounce all of her previous beliefs. Sad really. I was drawn to paganism because of the whole not preaching to others and trying to convert them.
miranybeetle witch hunts were a bussiness.
I didn’t keep up with WMW and honestly know nothing about her. Being brought up in the church of Christ in the North American south (Arkansas) I still find myself feeling guilty and ashamed of my pagan path. It is very true that those of us in the “Bible Belt” are often paralyzed by the thought of being found out. And indeed videos like Elyse’s, even though it is her truth, force me to second guess my own path. I watched her video and the guilt indeed does seep through the cracks, of an already less than stable foundation for me. Thank you for this video ❤️
Firstly thank you. I watched every minute of this and I needed it. I watched a few minutes of Elyse video and felt I needed a good cleansing . I am glad I didn't continue. I loved her channel. She was in my top 5 when started my journey (along with yourself, Ethony, Avalon and Owlmoon). I was raised a hindu and going to a Christian school being told that I I was going to go to hell was tough. Having immigrated to Australia, trying to fit in and being told that was not fun. I too am happy for Elyse. This is where she needs to be. But it makes me sad still.
Thank you for this video. I've had mixed emotions about this. I found her testimonial disturbing for many reasons. Her channel was one of the firsts I connected with in my tarot journey. I didn't see it coming at all. Still, I'm glad she's happy in her journey.
This was an excellent video Kelly Ann. I’m really happy that I took the time to listen to this. I think that you brilliantly expressed the disappointment that you have when someone not only feels that their way is the only way, but also the right way, and throws mud into the eyes of everyone that they had previously been associated with, while simultaneously expressing happiness for that very person. Bravo Kelly-Ann! Very well done! ❤️
Thank you so much for this video. I enjoyed it tremendously, and it's helping me to process. Thank you for all you do for this community. Many happy returns of the day.
Sorry serial commenter here. But thank you for speaking about the Christian God in a way I so agree with. Who can have a God in their life who would do such things. My god is not like that and I would never let a god in who would hurt those that I love simply for being gay or whatever. God is who you make them to be and that's not for Christian's to decide. We have been covering the God debate in philosophy and it's so interesting the excuses that a theist will come up with go believe in God. Anyway love the video xx
Thank you! This video is brilliant, and I needed to hear this, and I agree with Every. Single. Word. Seriously, I've journalled about this twice now, and my reactions were so close to yours (along with some other thoughts I'll just keep to myself, heh), and hearing you makes me feel validated, which helps so fucking much.
When I first saw you'd responded, I thought, "Wait, what? Kelly-Ann never engages in DRAMA." But of course that's not what you're doing. 🤣 I really appreciate you holding space for those of us who are feeling what we're feeling, and talking it out *with* us, instead of trying to talk us *out of* our feelings. As always, you are an absolutely badass healer. 💖
As a New Age Christian I was surprised to hear her say that an angel couldn't enter because of demons in her home. Wasn't it the angels who defeated satan and threw him out of heaven? Also if you believe every word of the many times rewritten to suit the needs of the church bible Jesus had been performing his miracles of healing, controlling the elements, etc and he said in John 14:12 "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth in me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father." Yet the church teaches that doing these things is evil. I also don't believe in the whole "Unworthy" thing. If I am considered a child of God and he created me as I am why would I always be in some way unworthy of his grace? I have children and would never feel they are unworthy of being with me because they make mistakes. Why should I believe that God who is wiser and greater than me isn't capable of feeling the same or have an even better view on that than I do? If Christians dig deep and go beyond the corrupted King James and many other versions of the bible they will find that Christianity is more pagan than they ever thought.
Not even half way through and such an incredible video! Thank you so much for discussing such a controversial topic. 🙏 I think hearing people's stories is super important and helps humanize us and connect us all. In fact, I'll definitely be working on a response video to this, detailing my personal "exit" from institutionalized christianity. I think it could be therapeutic to get it all out there if nothing else.
I all in for the witchy testomonials 🤣 #howIbecameaBadassWitchyPooh
Jezebel von Tex y'all are saying it for a joke but I believe it would be very cool. And revolutionary. I'm all for the Witchy testimonials. Flip the script on those fools.Lol💡
Viraix V I agree!
Let's get on that!
Would be in for a real witchy testimonial too 🙂🙏 But not to "convert" anybody. Just to share my experience and be able to maybe help someone who's stuck in the fear of trying to break free from anything outside pagan beliefs.
While listening to Kelly-Ann's response I realized that I have still got some shadowy left overs from my Christian upbringing. Btw: I talk to Jesus here and there and have always felt so loved and accepted. I remember 1.5 years ago: I had a major fallback and depression caught a hold of me yet again. I was in a town and suddenly felt such grief that I couldn't cope with the outside world anymore. I did what I often do: I walked straight into the next church, sat down and broke down, crying heavily. Yet,at the same time, I felt so safe and protected. No-one can harm you in a sacred space like a church or temple. In there, you can be at peace, no stress, no noise...
So, there I sat and then I just started talking to Jesus. I was like: "Jesus, you know that I follow another spiritual path but you also know that I never had anything against you personally. I totally vibe with you but just differently. If you can hear me...do you have time to just sit next to me? Can I talk to you? I'm so desperate, I just don't know what to do. I'm so stuck. What can I do, Jesus? Do you have an advice for me?"
So I sat there and just talked to him. And suddenly I felt this rush of unconditional love. The softness of his energy. And he had a message for me too. I had a clear thought in my mind: "I'm here for everybody. Religion doesn't matter to me. YOU matter. Just hang in there, Mirj. As chaotic as it all might seem right now I can assure you that everything's gonna be okay. Keep up trusting, I've got your back, your guides and angels have got your back."
The peace that came over me was like heaven to my soul. I'll never forget this experience. Ever. It was so beautiful, amazing, empowering. And...remember: I've just re-discovered my witchy self only a while ago. Was always spiritual but left the church and the Christian dogma years ago. It was my experiences with "God" (universe, source), Mother Mary and Jesus which led me to the Pagan belief 🙂 It allows me to fully embrace them without feeling "weird" or "off".
I got lost a bit here - so sorry! 🙈 That was already some kind of written testimony I guess🙈😅
Blessed be! 🙏❤️
I'm all on board, i think this is a fantastic idea. I am new to the youtube new age-y community and stumbled upon this, and what an amazing rabbit hole it is :3
But yes! Testimonials! I love listening to people's stories and i think it would be very helpful for the community as a whole
Elyse said that cardslinging never made her fully happy and she said her experience with the goddess was in hindsight demonic for her. She was super unhappy and it sort of hit a climax when her 3rd relationship broke up. I don’t think Elyse thinks her witchy beliefs are bullshit, she just wasn’t saved by them, they were ineffective for her. Not every Christian believes Christ is the only way for everyone, probably only for themselves. I found a great channel on CZcams by Champion of Coins and she’s actually Jewish and she uses tarot and witchcraft archetypally and her religion is her spirituality so you can do both. Christian fundamentalism would put everyone off it. I think people can be religious and have modern values and explore other faiths and mysteries and that’s the thing Christianity is portrayed in the media as being so out of touch but it can be sensible too.
This is a super old video but YESSS! You said all of this so well for both sides of the issue 🙌
As always, a brilliantly well thought through video mirroring my feelings from start to finish. Thank you for making this video and for linking to a creator I didn't know!
Thank you! Just beautiful. I’m so happy I’ve found your channel. My best friend died in evangelical Christianity and I lived 25 years of pretty horrible experiences there. I cannot emphasize how bad, bad can be in evangelical fundamentalism. It took me 20 years to rebuild my life and have a family again and a spiritual path of my own. I wouldn’t trade anything for my life now. Sure, I probably over reacted a bit, but it just wasn’t something I expected to find here. However...I’ve met some really wonderful new people through this event and removed some I don’t want to be involved with. So it’s all good.
Ninon Nickerson ❤️❤️❤️
Jesus, save us from your followers! 👹
I did see it coming. Coming from an Evangelical background, I really thought we were sisters from similar paths...so thanks for giving space for us to work through this.