I have been asked the question many times, how do I know if The Craft is right for me? The answer can be as easy or as hard as you make it. Only one person can tell, and thats you. If you are uncertain, wait. Try and learn all you can about it. You've likely been told it a million times, but read every book you can get your hands on both the good and the bad. Visit web sites and bookmark your favorites. Any knowledge you can gain will help you further understand just what The Craft is all about and how it might apply to you. Start a journal and write down what you are learning and how you feel about it. Write what statements you agree with and the ones you don't with a brief explanation why.

It may take you weeks, or even years, but make sure you know as much as you possibly can. The better you understand it, the more comfortable you will be when you make the final decision. No one becomes a Pagan over night. It takes years to develop your beliefs and learn the craft. If you decide to adopt paganism as your religion, you will eventually form your own opinions on how to do things and what ceremony is appropriate for what situation.

You may decide to be initiated and you may wait. It's entirely up to you. Those who are initiated will have to decide whether to be initiated by a friend or coven or do a self-initiation ritual. All of these are perfectly acceptable, but each person has their preferances

Before you make the final decision, you might want to look into similar religions or branches of paganism, such as Odhinnism and Shamanism. There are literally dozens of religions that are very close to paganism and it may be one of these that you choose. The important thing is that you are comfortable with your decision.

Keep your eyes open for religions that require you to obey and/or worship a leader. There is a very big difference between being dedicated to your religion and being dominated by it. It is not always easy to spot cults. Often you don't know what you are getting into until you are in too deep to climb out. If you and uncomfortable with anything that is asked of you and are still made or expected to do it, or if you feel restricted by the beliefs and practices taught to you, there is a good chance you are in an unhealthy situation. The best thing to do is withdraw from it immediately and go your separate way. A White Witch will not demand anything unreasonable. You should never be told what to do, but guided in the right direction and free to make your own discoveries at your own speed.

If you decide to start out as a solitary witch, be prepared to work alone, but you might also find a few other solitary witches to help you and to circle with occasionally. This is not only a good way to learn procedures, but also a great way to learn teamwork skills. It can be fun and far more powerful that one witch alone.

If you are lucky enough to live in an area where there is access to public organizations or a coven, I highly recommend it. They can provide guidance and fellowship you will not get elsewhere. However, make sure you are ready for this kind of experience. Many of us are just not cut out for covenhood.

Whatever your choice, and where ever your path takes you, Gentle Breezes and Blessed Be.

Author: Amairgen