Familiars ~ Discuss:

I used the term 'familiar' in the question title soley because I couldn't think of any replacement terminology. Personally, I share my home with quite a few rescued animals, and love them all enormously quite regardless of magical potential. My cat Rosie has been with me since I was a child & I have a strong bond with her. I do firmly believe we have shared lives together and will do so again, but I would not label her a 'familiar' as this term (to me at least) degrades her as an individual & in her own potential, reducing her almost to being my 'sidekick'. She is definitely attracted to the energy created during spells & rituals, and always wants to be present (usually sitting purring throughout, which doesn't bother me at all & has never caused any problems!), and will occasionally pull cards from my divination pack with her paw, which I find fascinating. However, she doesn't do any of these things to request & I wouldn't want her to ~ I think it means far more that she wants to partake of her own free will. Maybe the term should be Feline (or Canine/Avian/Rodent etc) Witch!! :)

Added by: ~faye~

11-18-2002