About Elementals

by Morgan LeFay

There are many, many different types of nature spirits in existence. We call them by a myriad of names - fairies, elves, devas, nymphs, gnomes, etc. One very distinct class of nature spirit is the one we call the Elementals. Elementals have similarities to other nature spirits, but are very different from what we typically think of as a "fairy".

For starters, elementals don't really have a definite form or appearance. If they choose to show themselves to you, they may choose a form that you will associate readily with the element they represent. A fire elemental may appear as a spark, a face in a candle flame or bonfire, or simply a warm spot that you suddenly walk through. A water elemental may be a cold spot. An air elemental could be a sudden breeze or tiny whirlwind in the dust. A smell, taste, or an unexplained pebble in your shoe could be evidence of the earth elementals at play.

The elementals DO like to play, but their play may be rough and may or not involve you personally. They like to tease, especially if you take yourself too seriously or if don't take THEM seriously. But when they are just playing……watch out! Violent thunderstorms, blizzards, raging seas - these are all evidence of the elementals kicking up their heals. Best for us to retire to the sidelines and watch.

So what are the elementals? The best description I can give is that they are raw forces of nature. A large part of the weather itself. Mother Nature's little helpers if you will. They are part of earthquakes, forest fires, hurricanes, tornadoes….not all of their activity is destructive certainly, although it may seem that way to humans at times. The elementals have their own agenda - they are not subject to our whims and desires. They have a definite purpose, which we may not understand, and which may not necessarily be to our benefit, but may be for the good of the planet as a whole.

As far as our interaction with them goes, there are several VERY important things to remember. First of all, WE CANNOT CONTROL THE ELEMENTALS! We cannot control the weather. You are deluding yourself if you believe that you can, and you are a fool if you try. Harsh words? Perhaps, but they may save your life. The elementals have extraordinary power and cannot be tamed or controlled. They are far beyond us. If you tamper with them, you are certain to irritate them. They are likely to lash out at you. It could be a gentle nose tweak. Or they could destroy you. Best not to chance it. You may ASK the elementals to help you accomplish a specific task (politely, mind you), and if they feel like helping or feel that your goal is worthy, they might. The best route is to try to earn their favor and stay on their good side. And remember, just because they don't help you one time, doesn't mean they won't the next. They have a very strong sense of justice, propriety, and right and wrong. Explain your goals very clearly and honestly. You can't deceive them, and it would be dangerous to try.

The elementals have a definite purpose and a definite will, but their personalities are not clearly defined. You can't sit down and have a conversation with them. Other nature spirits yes - but the elementals work on feelings, sensations, and symbolism. They are not a "being" in the same way other faeries are. As I said before, they are forces of nature and do not have a definite form. They are more like a form of living energy than anything else. An energy with a will, that can display emotions without being emotional, and that is constantly changing. They can be of tremendous aid to your magical workings, but only if you approach them properly.