I am not sure whether it has ever happened to me before, and I certainly don’t remember anyone actually asking but….
Performing a local shelter one evening, I heard a lady asking my staff liaison something about my magic and the devil. I couldn’t make out the whole sentence, and it was clear that my liason didn’t understand what she was being asked. But I heard the word a couple of times, and I had a hunch. I went over and told the lady that my magic was tricks. Just tricks. it seemed to help to assure her that the magic I do is just tricks. And that, in fact, I try not to talk to the Devil….
Of course, to magicians our magic is MORE than just tricks. But the honest among us (all the magicians I know) only claim to be illusionists. None claim, other than clearly as part of the entertainment, that our powers are real.
Anyone doing magical illusions and using them as “real” magic, as supernatural powers, is lying. I have a friend in Portugal who was seriously scared by a woman using principles of magical mentalism and simple sleight of hand. Fortunately I was able to describe what the woman had done and how she had “known” the amazing things she “knew” about my friend.
Magical illusions can be terribly spooky, terrifying, hair raising, and mind boggling. But, basically, they are tricks. This evening one little girl gave the challenge that I love. “That’s cheating.” My reply? “Of course it’s cheating! Do you think things REALLY just come out of thin air?” That banter continued most of the show; she knew it was “cheating” but still thoroughly enjoyed watching.
However, to the contrary, I believe that magic is an art form that can bring joy, laughter, fun, and perhaps even a little mystery and awe to those watching. After having reassured her about my magic, the lady who was questioning about my connection to the devil seemed to enjoy the performance. I believe that magic can do good and enrich the lives of those watching. Of course, the devilish side of me REALLY enjoys the looks I get on children’s faces….
Abracadabra 😀
The Magic and Malarky of Wyrd the Wyzard 
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