I must admit, my journey into the realms of Hermeticism, Witchcraft, and Esoteric Spiritualism has been met with skepticism at every turn. As a generally ‘okayish’ Buddhist, I’ve tried to do well with mindfulness, and compassion.  The world of "High Magick: A Guide to the Spiritual Practices That Saved My Life on Death Row" by Damien Echols was an entirely foreign and bewildering landscape for me.

My initial exposure to this book was thanks to research after I watched the "Paradise Lost" series, which documented the harrowing story of the "West Memphis Three." Little did I know that this true-crime series would serve as a gateway into a world of spirituality and mysticism I had never explored before. It was only because of this connection that I decided to pick up "High Magick" in the first place. Without the background of the West Memphis Three case, I might never have ventured into this uncharted territory.

Upon reading Damien Echols' book, I was struck by the profound transformation he underwent during his time on death row. His account of finding solace and meaning through the practice of High Magick was truly eye-opening. Echols describes how these esoteric practices saved his life, providing him with a sense of purpose, inner strength, and a deep connection to the unseen forces of the universe.

As a Buddhist, I was initially resistant to the idea of incorporating elements of High Magick into my own spiritual practice. It seemed like an incompatible blend of beliefs, like an odd merging of worlds.  However, Echols' compelling narrative and the authenticity of his experiences gave me pause. I began to see that spirituality is a deeply personal journey, and what works for one person may not work for another.

I cautiously started exploring some of the techniques and concepts presented in "High Magick." To my surprise, I found that certain aspects resonated with me on a profound level. The idea of harnessing the power of the mind and connecting with higher realms of consciousness appealed to my Buddhist sensibilities. It was as if I had discovered a new facet of spirituality that complemented and enriched my existing practice.

This unexpected integration of High Magick into my Buddhist path has led me to adopt what some might call "Dark Buddhism." I've come to realize that spirituality is not confined to rigid categories or belief systems; it is a fluid and ever-evolving journey. While I remain a “joe average” Buddhist, I also acknowledge the value of exploring different spiritual avenues and finding common threads that can enhance my understanding of the universe and my place within it.

In the end, Damien Echols' journey and his book have opened my eyes to the possibility of embracing diverse spiritual practices, even those that initially seemed incompatible with my beliefs. It's a reminder that wisdom can be found in unexpected places, and that our spiritual paths are as unique as we are, constantly evolving as we seek greater understanding and enlightenment.

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