“The word witch is related to the root of the word "willow," a very flexible tree.”

— Starhawk

Bodhi Tree lecture (1999)
Context: The word witch is related to the root of the word "willow," a very flexible tree. Since ancient times witches have been known as those who can bend or shape fate. We twist the energies. The idea of witch became synonymous with wise woman, and with others who were herbalists and healers and keepers of the old traditions after the advent of Christianity. We were the ones who really knew the land and knew what grew there, and how to use it.

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Starhawk59

American author, activist and Neopagan 1951

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Context: "But what can I do?" cried she, spreading out her arms helplessly. "I can not hew down trees, as my father used; and in all this end of the king's domain there is nothing else to be done. For there are so many shepherds that no more are needed, and so many tillers of the soil that no more can find employment. Ah, I have tried; hut no one wants a weak girl like me."
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"Well," said the girl, laughing. "I'm not old enough. Witches, you know, are withered dried-up old hags."
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"Stuff and nonsense!" cried the stranger angrily.
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"Oh. I'd like to be that kind of witch!" said Mary-Marie, clasping her hands earnestly.