In friendship circles within the witchcraft community, we often find ourselves entangled in a web of shared secrets, mutual empowerment, and a profound sense of camaraderie not unlike a coven. However, sometimes lurking beneath the surface of these magical bonds lies a complexity that demands our attention - the intricate dance with a narcissistic friend.
Initially, the bond is crafted on the loom of shared interests and a genuine connection. The relationship sparkles with love bombing, where both friends uplift each other, basking in mutual admiration. It's a haven where frustrations, hurts, and even the occasional 'witchy gossip' find solace in a space of trust and comfort.
Yet, as time unfurls its enigmatic web, the signs of narcissism begin to manifest. The narcissistic friend's facade of support and promotion gradually crumbles either because they find a new focus or favourite person to give their attention to or simply becuase they feel like they are not getting the admiration they need, but when the one friend asserts independence or confronts the manipulation, the love and praise bestowed turn into venomous words and public displays of contempt designed to embarrass, to hurt and to ultimately destroy the other.
What was once a platform for mutual growth and empowerment transmutes into a battlefield. The narcissistic friend, who clearly feels threatened by the other's awakening, seeks to undermine their power, labelling their craft as inadequate or insincere. They orchestrate a performance, painting themselves as the victim, manipulating the emotions of their followers to garner sympathy and numbers to join their plight to destroy their one time friend.
The transformation is stark, from championing the other's prowess to decrying their abilities, from confidant to critic, from ally to adversary.
In the wake of such a fallout, the witchy community becomes a witness to this abrupt shift. The once-promoted friend is now painted as incompetent, their crafts belittled, and their character tarnished. But herein lies the conundrum - whose truth holds the weight? Is it the lashings out of a wounded soul for losing a friend or is it that they lashing out because of exposure of their deceit cloaked they cloaked in friendship?
When faced with such situations, it's crucial to consider the motives behind the sudden and in most cases, it is a brutal, malicious and very loud denouncement by narcissistic inclines folks. Is it a wounded ego seeking revenge, or are they simply revealing themselves as being capable of long-concealed truths? Regardless, the character of the one lashing out becomes and should become extremely questionable.
As practitioners of the craft, we are guided by principles of authenticity, empathy, and discernment. Therefore, it's imperative to tread with caution, acknowledging that within the witchy realms, just as in life, not all that glitters is gold and sometimes, that gold has a slippery silver tongue.
At the end of the day, navigating friendships within the witchcraft community demands a discerning eye and a compassionate heart. While painful, the revelation of narcissism within a friendship serves as a poignant reminder to prioritise authenticity and integrity, even in the mystical realms we traverse.
Remember, dear witches, the true power lies not only in the spells we cast but in the bonds we nurture with honesty and empathy.
On a more personal note - to those reading this, especially those who know what this blog is about and those who are still ensnared by the narcissist's charms: know that clarity arrives in its own time. Peer beyond the glittering facade, find truth amidst manipulation's symphony. Your journey for freedom will echo the many battles fought by others before you, but know your power to break free resides within. Believe you deserve truth, authenticity, and freedom from deceit's shadow. If your eyes aren't yet open, it's okay—clarity takes time. But remember, when it dawns, forgiveness will dwell in my heart, but the memory of turned backs, the memory of your sharp tongue will linger. Understanding waits, but our friendship's thread has faded.
Blessings on your journey of revelation and empowerment.
Blessed be.