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Course #1 Lesson #7 What's in a name? Silver beings this chapter by discussing how names can be labels, and folks, this is not always such a good thing. I mean sometimes it amazes me that people have like nine months to come up with a name for a child and then you find out what they are choosing. My real name is nothing to brag about mind you, but when I've heard other names I can't help but think "that poor child". You all know what I'm talking about lol.
One of the most creative and descriptive thing you can do for yourself is choosing your craft name. I believe this name should describe you who are, and who you are wanting to become, at least in some fashion. Silver has told us how she got her name, and hopefully that will prove helpful in choosing yours. There are many methods of choosing a name, but one that I'd recommend is thinking of several possibilities, listing them all, and then seeing which one seems to fit the best. Don't discard a name to quickly, it just might turn out to be the one you choose later.
Getting back to the meaning of the name, I think it's important that we realize that when we first come to the Craft, or even after we are old hands at it, we are constantly growing and evolving. While choosing your name, its important to remember that you will be, in essence, building your new self, your new personality. Or, maybe even better put, allowing your real self to shine through. The name you choose will reflect that person, maybe not to others, but to yourself. So take your time, and really consider carefully what name fits you the best.
I also want to reiterate what Silver said about taking too many names right away. If you are in a Coven then you may want to choose two names, but I'd put a limit at that for now. As you grow into your name(s) you may later find that they need to change, for whatever reason, or you may want to add a name. But before you get carried away, remember that these names are an extension of yourself, and not some "dress up" toys that can be put on and taken off at will. Allow yourself time to get comfortable in your new name, and then look to add or change.
Writing Assignment: If you do not yet have a craft name, take the time to work through Silvers writing suggestion. List what strengths your name should stand for, what traits you hope to add to your life, what animals, deities, etc. you feel a connection with. All these will help you in determining your craft name. Once you have chosen your name, or if you have had the same name for a while, write a statement about why you choose that name and what it means to you.
Lesson 7 Quiz
1. T/F Names can become labels, both good and bad.
2. T/F Silver suggests that we limit the number of names we choose in the beginning.
3. T/F In order to practice magick, I must have a craft name.
4. T/F My Craft name is a symbol of my new personality and an extension of myself.
5. T/F I completed the writing assignment for Lesson 7.
Lesson 7 Quiz Answers
1. True
2. True
3. False - you don't have to have a craft name if you don't want one, the Lord and Lady still know who you are
4. True
5. Well, you know lol
Continue on to Lesson Eight
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