We have all heard stories about mystics, warriors, and witches and how they have been honored or defamed across centuries, continents, and cultures.

How their society responded—by respectfully valuing their wisdom, protection, and healing, or by fearfully dealing out banishment, imprisonment, or death—has left its imprint upon our collective psyche for good or ill. These figures tap into an archetypal power and shake up the status quo. In our increasingly turbulent times perhaps they have something to offer.

Mystics bring new information into consciousness. What is the source of their knowledge? By what criteria do we deem them wise or psychotic? Warriors may battle to the death. What are they fighting for? Who or what is the enemy? Witches cast magical spells of healing or evil. What is a spell? What guides them in their work? These archetypes all involve a dance with the light and shadow of Consciousness, Power, and Love. If we are called to embrace or embody aspects of these archetypes, how might we approach the task?

In this eight-week series we will examine historical and mythic examples of mystics, warriors, and witches to better discern what contributed to their effectiveness and elicited a receptive response. We will also explore the personal relevance of embracing these energies for greater self-awareness, personal integrity, and heart-guided service to the world.