You know someone who's suffering, and you know a little magic could help that person. Shouldn't you do a healing spell for her? Well, maybe. Physical pain is a red flag that something needs attention — not just the obvious symptom, but the underlying root of the problem. Perhaps the discomfort your friend feels is actually helping her get in touch with the deeper issues involved. If so, it may be a necessary and beneficial part of her healing process.

Respecting another person's free will is also important when you're doing magic. You can't change anyone else unless he wants to change. And you may not fully understand the issues involved with another person's disease. Perhaps an injury is forcing an overachiever to slow down, work less, and spend more time with his family. Perhaps an illness is giving someone's partner a chance to practice patience and compassion. Unless someone asks for your help, proceed with caution and reserve.

Finally, it's important to acknowledge that magic spells, no matter how powerful and well intentioned, aren't a substitute for professional medical care. Although you've perhaps heard of shamans who can cure broken bones by tying sticks carved with affirmations to the damaged limb, in most cases it's wise to have the bone set by a qualified doctor. You may have personally witnessed miraculous healings or undergone instantaneous cures for long-term conditions that orthodox medicine couldn't alleviate. But if you break a tooth, you'll probably be grateful for the skills of a competent dentist. Combine humility, patience, and common sense with magical belief, for both your own good and everyone else's.