From The Witch's Desk ~ Spilling the Tea

 

Too bad you drew that line in the sand

When you did that, you kind of gave an ultimatum, but this is risky, because they might all call your bluff.  There are no guarantees on the outcome with an ultimatum.

The woman is controlling beyond the norm -- is it someone you know, or is it you we're speaking of?  It's alright, only you know.  You're reading this in solitude, there's no one to watch you for reactions -- a raised eyebrow, a sly smile, a knowing nod, no one will see any of this, but you.

He's calm right now, on the surface at least.  Maybe he's still processing that line in the sand, wondering what it would take to breach it, and if he has what it would take.  People who throw tantrums, throw their weight around, they're usually cowards, you know.  He's worked very hard promoting the idea of a strong and blustery persona.

He's controlling too, but in a more whiny irritating way, not commanding and daunting and slightly threatening, like the woman.

You gave it all you had, wherever you stand in this scenario; you gave until you have no more to give.  You feel like an empty vessel at the moment, and it's at a time like this when all the internet gurus would tell you to ground and center and meditate to "find yourself".  You know exactly where you are, you don't need to "find yourself"... you're on the wrong side of that line in the sand.

To be honest, it might have already gone too far, there may be no turning back at this point, no going forward either. The ultimatum has brought everything to a halt, or to a climax. Like two cats that have squared off, growling under their breath, tales twitching, pupils wide, neither of them dare be the first to move. That's a pretty good description of the scene right now.

There isn't going to be anything to celebrate, at least not in the immediate future, and if you had anything planned, don't count on it now.  Happiness was right in the palm of your hand, so close you could smell it, until you drew that line in the sand.

Spilling the Tea

What is a Ghost Light?

 

A ghost light is a single, temporary lamp left burning on a dark theater stage to serve both practical and superstitious purposes. Practically, it acts as a safety precaution, illuminating hazards like stage edges, holes, or equipment, preventing accidents for those who enter the empty theater. Superstitiously, the light is believed to appease or ward off theater spirits, honoring the tradition and magic of the stage.

Practical Functions

Safety:
It prevents falls and injuries by illuminating the stage, which would otherwise be completely dark and dangerous.

Navigation:
It allows theater personnel to navigate the dark stage safely when they return.

Symbolic Function:
The light also serves as a symbol of the theater's continued life and the eventual return of the cast and crew, even during a closure or pandemic.

Traditional and Superstitious Side

For the Spirits:
One belief is that the ghost light guides resident theater ghosts or spirits, keeping them content and happy.

To Ward Off Mischief:
Another idea is that the light keeps away harmful or mischievous spirits who might otherwise cause trouble.

Tradition:
The tradition is a respected part of theater culture, connecting present-day theater people to those of the past.

Origins of the Ghost Light Tradition

While the exact origins are unclear, theories include...

Safety Precautions:
Legends suggest it began as a precaution against accidents, such as an unlucky burglar falling into the orchestra pit.

Placing Gas Lights:
Early forms may have been gas lights kept on to relieve pressure in the gas lines and prevent explosions.

Burglar Deterrent:
Another idea is that it acted as a deterrent to burglars, making it seem as if someone was still in the building.

Other superstitions and traditions

Telling an actor to "break a leg":
Instead of wishing someone good luck, theatrical performers say "break a leg" to tempt fate and avoid actual bad luck.

Whistling backstage:
It is believed to be a jinx to whistle backstage, as it was historically used to signal stagehands cues during scene changes.

Objects and Items

Peacock feathers:
Peacock feathers are considered bad luck and are not allowed on stage, as the "evil eye" on the feather is thought to bring misfortune.

Mirrors on stage:
Mirrors are believed to interfere with lights or capture negative energy, which can lead to forgotten lines or other disasters.

Real money and jewelry:
It was discouraged to wear "real" jewelry or to carry large amounts of cash in the theatre, as it was believed it could invite theft.

Flowers:
Giving flowers before a show is bad luck, but acceptable after the performance.

Actions and Dress

Costumes:
Wearing blue or green costumes is often considered unlucky, though this can vary by culture.

Shoes on tables:
Placing shoes on a table in a dressing room is a jinx.

Knitting:
Knitting in the wings during a performance is considered bad luck.

Specific Plays

Macbeth:
The name of this play is never spoken in a theatre, with performers referring to it as "the Scottish Play" instead.

Sources & Recommended Reading

Break a Leg
by Lisa Bansavage & L E McCollough

@Amazon

Supernatural on Stage:

Ghosts & Superstitions of Theatre

by Ricghard Hugget

@Amazon