Paganism/Wicca

» Jill Stefko - pow wow

Hi Elizabeth,
I learned, as an adult, that my great-grandfather, Pappy, was a PowWow (from Nazareth, PA). He died when I was two. As far as his PowWow doctoring, about all I know is that he cured warts and colds and was Lutheran. My family did not talk about PowWow until I read Silver Ravenwolf's HexCraft, reprinted as American Folk Magic. Since then, I have read all that I can about PowWow and have talked to people with the knowledge about the practice.
Of the people I know who believe in or practice PowWow, all are Christian, Lutheran, almost without exception. Their reactions to the occult and Pagan beliefs range from acceptance that these forms of spirituality exist and tolerance to being appalled because these things are, to them, the work of the devil.
According to my research, PowWow is passed down from the oldest male of the generation, the PowWow, to the oldest female of the next generation who becomes a PowWow to the oldest male of the next generation and on and on. The art can be passed down to a non-family member if circumstances warrant. It is also possible that the PowWow will not pass it down. Pappy either did not pass it down or he did so with a non-family member. As with other magickal practices, there is a lot that is shrouded in mystery and kept secret.
I totally agree that the gift or talent is genetic. Had Pappy handed down the gift, I would have been the one in line. I have studied the art. I have healed and protected.
There are problems in dealing with esoteric subjects such as magick. It is all theoretical and there is scant, at best, or, for the most part, no scientific proof that proves its existence. It is also very easy to mix with folk lore.
I enjoyed reading your comments. I believe that when it comes to subjects that cannot be validated by the scientific method, we have to keep an open mind.
Regards,
Jill