Aphrodite

I usually tell people that Gaia brought me to this path, and this is true she did raise my awareness, walk with me and open the doors to Magic! It wasn't until recently that I realized that I have been a Goddess worshiper my entire life, especially during high school. You see when I was in high school I was still going to the church my parents told me to. I was rebellious, but there were certain things I just couldn't get out of, church was one of them. I hated every moment of it, and I never understood why. Now 15 years later I look back on life and memories that I didn't think I had began to reveal themselves. For years (as an adult) I had been ashamed of this incredibly vain, over sexed 15 year old bombshell I used to be. "I shouldn't be so aggressive, and think that I am so beautiful" these things lead to destruction. I wanted to fit into the "church" but I never understood why I clashed so hard with the church. I understand now, that it was the presence of Aphrodite in my life. A strong, beautiful Goddess who promoted everything that went against the church. I tried to find balance between these and I eventually threw everything out the window including Aphrodite, but now 15 years later I look back and yearn for her again.

Aphrodite was the first Goddess that whispered in my ear. Well the first one I remember, at least. I was about 15, 16, and 17 and she was such a huge presence in my life. I became obsessed with her and the female form. At the time I loved men, women were beautiful as well, but MEN were the object of my wants and desires. It is true that teens have a strong sex drive, but mine was stronger and fiercer than a 16 year old boy. I thought about sex every other second. I was a burning ball of fire! For English class one year we had to do one of those reports where we dress up like the person we are writing the report about. I chose Aphrodite. I wrapped up in a large sheet, and golden wig, and armed myself with Golden apples, and headed to class to tell her story.

Knowing what I know now, this was Ritual theater! My very first ritual, in front of a classroom of people, speaking as the Goddess. (looking back its mind blowing) I had absolutely NO idea that she would be such an influence in my life. That she was most likely responsible for the increased vanity and sexual drive. I had worshiped her, and she had rewarded me with what she gives best, sex and beauty. When I arrived in college all I wanted to draw and paint was beautiful nude women. I was told not to do this, what I drew wasn't art, to draw something else etc. I didn't listen and my grades suffered. I even started to screen print the three graces in traditional witchcraft colors Red, Black and White.

Here I am now as an adult, and finding her presence in my life again. It is different this time. I understand what I am doing, and respect her as a Goddess who is alive and present in my life. There is less destruction in this line of thinking. Sex has become sacred, beauty is sacred. Aphrodite IS Sacred! I find myself building a temple for her, for her in her amazing beauty, to honor her as the Sacred feminine. I am filled with gratitude for her presence, and patience. Now with acceptance, understanding and wisdom our journey continues.....