The face of the Green Man looms in trees here in the West, while in Asia the contented face of the Buddha beams across the land on temple walls. In Egypt the mystical face of Tutankhamen peers through space and time, the epitome of ancient Egypt. There is indeed something magical about all these faces—but all these faces are masks.

We like to look at these symbols, these faces of time and tradition. They bestow something upon us, and when gazing at these faces, we find peace, knowledge, and reverence. We honour the cultures and their peoples every time we look into these faces and masks, many of which have magic and myths associated with them. It is said that if you look upon the face of Tutankhamen, you will never want for anything, while gazing upon the face of the Buddha will bring you peace.

Ancient priests and tribespeople wore masks to emulate the gods. Masks serve the purpose of distancing the wearer from other people by making the wearer appear strange and mysterious. In magic itself, masks are sometimes worn to aid the invocations of the gods. However, many gods like to change themselves into different things in order to walk among their people. Zeus is one god who changed his identity many times, usually to seduce a new lover, and Odin is known as the god of identity and masks because he often changed his appearance and hid his true identity in order to walk among his subjects.

 If you are wearing a mask for whatever reason, whether literally or figuratively, and you feel you are not showing your true self, then perform this spell. Sit in front of a mirror while wearing your mask and say this spell into your reflection:

This mask of mine that I must wear

Shields me from the wear and tear.

Those I love can see the truth of me.

From behind the mask, I am free.

As you sit in front of the mirror, imagine removing that mask so loved ones can see the true you. Keep your guard up when out in public by all means, but always be open and honest with those who truly care for you