One last pic of my new Altar, this time actually in use. It's not a great photo, I couldn't get 1 that didn't have the candles flaring out like crazy! Mainly, I wanted to share the first spell I did with it, in case it's something other practitioners might have occasion to use.
Naming no names, (the worst of the drama seems to finally be over, and I don't want to revv it back up again!) but a friend of mine was going through an awful rough patch recently, and, having obtained their permission, I came up with a sort of "Protection Plus" spell to try and help them. I set up my workspace, as shown, and recited the following incantation over a representation of my friend. (I used a plastic animal figurine of the appropriate species, painted to match my friend's fursona, but a photograph or even a slip of paper with the friend's name written on it would do just fine)
"Upon this night, within this hour
I call upon the Ancient Powers
To hear my words and heed them well
To aid me in this witch's spell
Tonight, I weave a mighty charm
To protect [friend] from all harm
I cast away from her every strife
To leave only good things in her life
I bid The Fates be ever kind,
That only happiness my she find
By the Powers of Earth, Wind and Sea
All darkness from her path must flee
As I do Will, So Mote It Be!"
I punctuated the last line with three sharp chimes of my Altar bell, and spent several minutes meditating on the representation of my friend. I visualized her completely surrounded by a soft, gentle, warm and loving light. I firmly fixed the intention the intention that the light should bring nothing comfort to my friend, but should any negativity seek to pass through and reach her, it would burn away as though cast into the heart of the sun.