Flame is symbolic for me on many levels, and most truly matches my own best self-image. First, I'm a fire sign, and I've always been aware of that fiery aspect to my personality. As a child I had a fiery temper, which I had to learn to control as I matured. Second, I have always been drawn to the element of fire, from candles on the table, to small campfires in the woods, to great bonfires at events. I have always been drawn to the flickering of the flames... I am entranced by them, and therefore frequently use them as a focal point for meditation and spellwork. (Don't get me wrong, I'm not a firebug. Safety first!)
After about a year of intensive studying and practice of the craft, I was ready to choose a name that reflected the growth I'd undergone. I noted my connection to the element of fire, and saw that my fiery will matched the purifying flame. I wanted a name that was simple, yet reflected the spiritual side of me. I chose Flame, and began using it with friends and family. I wrote and spoke as Flame, and introduced myself to the Pagan community by that name. I became Flame.
After a few more years of study and practice, I began exploring the inner realms of Shamanism. I did an intensive internship within the Spirit Worlds. Two of my strongest allies in helping me bridge the world of form and the world of spirit were Crow and Hawk. When I had passed my first trials, and took on the responsibilities of Shaman, I decided to take a new name to reflect this new role.
I wished to honor both Crow and Hawk, but frankly, CrowHawk sounded dumb to my ears. It didn't feel right. But Crow's cousin Raven offered me his name instead. RavenHawk became my surname, for I didn't want to lose the power that had become identified with Flame. Raven has also since become one of my teachers and friends, so I proudly wear his name. (This is long before Silver RavenWolf became popular. I hadn’t heard of her at the time.)
So although I now wear a name that teeters on the edge of ridiculous, it still bears personal meaning for me. All of the spiritual work I’ve done for the past fifteen years has been done while wearing this name. It’s more than a fad, or an exotic nom de plume, it’s a name that is as fully my name as the one given to me at birth.
I am Flame RavenHawk. Namaste.
October 12, 2002