A work of this scope and breadth requires a contribution from many minds, hearts, and spirits. It has taken over twenty-three years to compile and distill the information you read in these pages, and during that time I have absorbed techniques and disciplines that have influenced my own spiritual practice and hence my writing. So whether their participation in the book was direct or indirect, I am grateful to an array of individuals for their various contributions.
Many thanks to Mead Hunter, the editor of this and each of my previous works. His sharp eye and even sharper red pencil have kept me making sense on paper for the past ten years. It is his advice, wisdom, and insight that you will find pervading this book. My gratitude goes to my long time friend and High Priestess, Varda Ninna, who has supported my path with humor, kindness, compassion, political awareness, and a keen shamanic sense of the Craft. Varda also reviewed portions of the manuscript before publication, and I relied upon her input while making critical adjustments to the text. May the Goddess bless members of Moontydes, a women’s Wicca community in Riverside, California. These women have read my works and have unselfishly given me time to expand my practice and to explore new techniques in their community, which includes Saga Gefjon, Kestrel Morgan, Brigit Silverbranch, Athena, and Suleima. Saga was also instrumental in shaping the runes section of this book.
I have lit a candle and a stick of incense to the members of The Rainbow Warriors, who have contributed to my knowledge and understanding of many occult matters: Jayson, Druimaelduin, and Collie Valadez. Thank you, magical men. Love and blessings go to Christopher Penczak who has listened to me kvetch and who has guided me in many matters—both magical and mundane. I would also like to thank Matthew Ellenwood, Barbara Ardinger, and Karen Cummings for their time and insights over the years. P. McGill unquestioningly offered a collection of internet links that you will find in this work and on my website.
A big, appreciative gassho and bow go to Roshi Wendy Egyoku Nakao, who has facilitated my ever-gradual awakening and who has inspired the wisdom of Wisdom Moon.
Finally, un beso grande to my partner Edu, for opening many doors, for expanding my horizons, and for offering patience, support, and love during my latter adventures in the Craft.