Reply #4

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[wisdomsbane]

I perform magic on a somewhat regular basis.  I assume that it has the power to actually affect change in the world or I wouldn't bother.  So assuming it works (at least some of the time) I have a couple of questions:

Do you feel magic is more effective when coupled with religion, or separated from it?  Do you pray (to anyone/thing) for favors or success?  Do you ask that other entities carry out action on your behalf?  Is this really magic, or is it worship?  If you practice non-religious magic do you believe that the energy comes from within you or without you?

I don't practice religion and magic in the same breath.  However, I don't think that those who do so are wrong in that.  I don't tend to pray to any deities for anything, although I will thank the appropriate deities if certain things do happen.  For example, when I write an article that happens to be good enough to get published, I thank Athena for that, but I don't pray to her for the wisdom to accomplish that, nor to any Muse (or other deity/spirit of inspiration), for that effect to happen before it happens.  I believe that magic comes from inside of you, whether it is a force or not, I don't know. 

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