Intentions and Aspirations

As we have already discussed, from the perspective of the Myth in question, will as a formed and conscious desire can manifest as a whirl and as a vector. At the same time, in everyday language, the whirl, establishing, aspect of volitional manifestation is commonly called intention, and the vector, directing, aspect — aspiration.

In other words, when we say that we “intend to do” something, we mean our desire seeks an opportunity for its fulfillment — and this precisely describes the formation of a whirl; whereas when we say that we “aspire” toward something, we mean that our mind is tracing the vector of transition from one of its states to another.

Thus, more or less consciously using these terms, we, willingly or unwillingly, describe what we are doing on the path to realizing our desire.

Obviously, for a Magus, it is important to understand how his energy moves, by what methods and along which paths realization takes place.

Therefore, when using the term “intention”, it’s useful to understand that we mean creating a stable structure which seeks to attract necessary resources for its manifestation, requires its own support, and has a semblance of will (that is, a whirl). When using the concept of “aspiration”, it’s important to realize that we mean a prolonged process that is merely set in motion, like an arrow loosed from a bow.

For example, if I say that I “intend” to write a post about whirls and vectors, I mean that I am seeking concrete ways and opportunities to do it; in this, primarily, “earth” energies are engaged. But if I say that I “aspire” to write this post, then it is primarily about desire and seeking inspiration, and I use the energies of “wind”.

Accordingly, when someone realizes they can find all resources needed for realization, he can form an intention; but when the path is unclear, and there is only a pull toward the desired result (or direction of movement), it is more appropriate for him to form an aspiration. This means that using whirl-based methods to influence reality is effective when the path to fulfillment is reasonably clear; whereas when it is not, it is more rational to rely on vectors.

The intention Magus, the whirl Magus, is a Magus who relies primarily on his Authority and his knowledge, seeking control and certainty. For him, the use of sigils, seals, and other solid supports provides the very lever with which Archimedes claimed he could ‘move the Earth.’

The Magus of aspiration, the vector Magus, is a person who relies mainly on Power and inspiration and is also open to the play of uncertainties. For him, it’s effective to rely on Runic or Ogham structures, acting like wings or boats carrying him along the seething currents of chance.

It is clear that an effective traveler combines both approaches, choosing the most appropriate approach in the current situation: setting intentions and building whirls when the situation allows control, and creating aspirations when the paths to realization are unclear.

At the same time, of course, it’s important not to confuse the formation of an intention with stubbornness and obstinacy, and the creation of an aspiration — with carelessness and frivolity. The choice of strategy must always be deliberate and balanced, accepting full responsibility for the consequences.