Is It Right To Command Elementals?

by Swedishfairy
(Colorado)

Ken wrote in one of his Beginning Witchcraft articles about ritual, and that when it comes to calling the quarters and the 'watchtowers' or the elemental spirits, we should be commanding.

I have never been that way- as yet I haven't had a problem- but reading that essay makes me think twice.

I have always 'called the good qualities' of the elements --not thinking literally like that in my mind, just appreciating them and grounding and respecting each direction/element while I do my own rituals/meditations.

I see the logic behind being commanding, but perhaps it's my Christian upbringing thinking isn't it arrogant to assume we can command things, spirits, etc? And isn't it that attitude that might get us in trouble?

With everything else it's 'stay if you will, go if you must, hail and farewell,' but not with the elements.

I'm riding the fence on this one and would like to hear more reasons why this is done.

Thanks! :)