In today’s society, we are all linked with computers in some form or fashion.  We can rarely get away from them entirely;  from our desktops, to laptops, to eBooks, to smart phones, most people interact with computers on a daily basis. Those who don’t cross paths in the form of emails at work, or library book searches, or even just driving our cars.

Computers are everywhere, and they have become integral to our lifestyle.  As I pull out my iPhone to find a local restaurant where I can treat myself to a well-rated  breakfast, I can’t help but wonder how computers came to play such a key role in our lives.

Computers aren’t just becoming a part of our lifestyles, they’re becoming a part of our magick.  There are a number of websites out there that host Books of Shadows, or free books such as “Aradia, The Gospel of the Witches” and “The Gardnerian Book of Shadows”, and a host of others.  Sites with free spells abound as well… some good, some bad, some just down right scary.  Technology and computers allow us to express ourselves with a level of anonymity that any in-the-broom-closet pagan appreciates.  We even have online covens and colleges such as Sacred Mists, providing training in a multitude of traditions, keeping in tune with the inherently progressive nature of The Craft. Ultimately the internet as an energy source and computers as the tool to access it, can be used for more than just storing information, sharing spells or telling others what we think. Your computer can become a magickal tool in itself.

A computer is the ultimate in self-serve imagery.  Feeling blue? Find a fun and lively photo and make it your desktop, or add it to your screensaver.  Need a pick-me-up? Find an image that energizes you, and use that instead!  Need a kick in the Muse? Load up Flickr, Photobucket, Bling, or Google Images, or any of a number of graphic
search engines and surf to your creative heart’s content. The web is virtually limitless and, to the techno-pagan, an abundant resource for magick.

If you’re technically capable (software and skills) you can make a meditation movie using any of a number of different applications (some free) to blend images and sound.  Record your own voice or use music from your favorite artist and add a soundtrack to a slideshow of calming images.  Make it your very own.

At work and need a break?  Load up your favorite online radio show or pop in a CD and put your headphones on.  Just let your mind follow the music and go!

With a small time investment and some free applications on the internet (or paid ones, if you so choose) you can take your computer magick a step further.  Use your computer as your magickal tool … no wands, knives, candles or incense needed!

Here’s an example of a spell that has been altered to work in our techno-pagan world. This spell is traditionally done by writing down your habit to get rid of on a piece of paper and flushing it down the toilet (yes, you read it right). By using your computer, you can accomplish the same action utilizing the keys on your keyboard!

“Delete That Habit” Spell

What you will need:
Computer or Laptop (creative users might be able to use smartphones, too)
Your favorite online source of images
A graphics manipulation program (Gimp, Photoshop, Photobucket Online, etc.)
A habit or reaction you wish to get rid of

Instructions:
1. Using your graphics program, create a collage that is no larger than is viewable on your screen.  This collage should have images and words that reflect the habit or reaction that you want to get rid of. Spend time making your collage, identify with each of the components. It’s okay if there’s only one or two things on there if those things mean something to you.
2. When you’re done, save the file to your desktop or other easy-to-find location.
3. Find the file you just created in your file manager.
4. Bring to mind the image. Feel free to re-open the file if you need to look at it again.
5. Visualize yourself pushing away those images and feel that you’re pushing the habit away.
6. Make sure the file is close, select the file and DELETE!

Know that you can get rid of that habit, in fact, it’s already done! Now you just need to follow through.

Play with your computer, enjoy the technology.  Feel the energy that it brings and add it to your toolbox. Just don’t forget to leave the computer and go outside, where you can surround yourself with nature and ground the energy that you are tapping into each time you work with your computer as a magickal tool.

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