Novice questions.

[bleuphoenix]

If one has not yet established a proper relationship with the Goddess and God, is it wrong to still try to ask for their help?

In a nutshell, things in my personal life are one step forward, two steps back at the moment. I know this is because of personal flaws and I'm trying to correct them, but it is very difficult. Since I am still relatively new to this path, I have not yet identified properly with the powers that be.

But last night before bed, I did an impromptu ritual of sorts, lit a candle and prayed for guidance, to find the strength and wisdom to overcome these issues. There was no circle cast, nor did I have anything to offer them, I merely anointed the candle and let it burn for a while.

I am wondering if this was either right, or effective.

And speaking of candles, when one uses them for this purpose, are they supposed to be brand new and unburnt? And how long are they to be burned for?
I had no full candles, so used the stub of one that remained. I always thought it was best to just use what one had available at the time.

Hoping these questions don't sound too foolish.

Blessed be.

[Lukis]

Yeah thats cool Althia, i didnt realise snuffing is a must though, ive always blown them out, love the smell of the smoke ya see :)

The whole point is to tell the universe your will, so using the tools is to help with a conscious decesion which brings your destiny into play. But cos its the universe with the final blow one must adhear to any rules of the craft that have been proven to work and be true. Following your heart is really important but following the basic rules just pearls the outcome i think.

[Lukis]

I think so bro! :) im glad i learnt that one now! Thats a great explanation to Althia, ta darl

[Nika]

There are no foolish questions, and if we don't ask we won't learn :)
Your impromptu ritual sounds wonderful, and is indeed a ritual. You can connect with the gods whenever you feel the urge to, and often our best rituals are those that we do on the spur of the moment, using creativity and instinct rather than carefully preparing an elaboriate circle. Dieties don't care if the candle you used is brand new, frangranced with the best purfumes, and cost half of your daily earnings. It's all about symbol, heart and intent, and the simpliest rituals can often be the most effective as we aren't distracted with other concerns and keep our hearts and intents pure in what we are doing. Although it's generally considered ideal to use new candles consecrated for the general working, that's simply because it adds to the symbolic meaning and focuses your intent for the ritual. Pagans, all over the world and throughout time, don't always have specific, new, shiny tools to work with and often use what they have available on hand. Your ritual was right and effective if it felt right to you. There are no right or wrong methods, and how you connect with Nature, your higher self, and the gods is entirely up to you, and should always be personal. Although there are accepted norms out there, they generally are not "rules" per say, and should be viewed more as helpful guidelines. Your spirit knows what is right, use your intuition and you can't fail! :)
Hope this helps, and good luck with everything! *Brightest blessings*

[Lukis]

HERE HERE!

The word rule sounds so brutal doesnt it, guidlines sounds correct, more personal, cheers for sharing Nika that was an awesome post, learning that...