Athenaeum
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How many of you were Wiccan long before you knew you were Wiccan? If you're nodding your head, you know exactly what I mean. If you're not nodding, let me try to explain.

I was raised Roman Catholic. My whole family was Roman Catholic. I had an aunt who was a nun. My Dad had to convert to Catholicism before he could marry my Mom. Needless to say, religion was big in my house.

However, it never really fit me. I tried. I really tried. But I was the
"strange one". I hugged trees and recycled. I became a vegetarian. I
questioned things that good Catholics don't question and read books good Catholics don't read. I started to realize that being a Catholic, for me, was not a good fit.

So, early in my twenties, I went on a search. I read and talked to
people. I tried a few different theories on for size. No luck. However, a pattern was emerging. I was drawn to Wicca. I met people who were Wiccan. I read books about Wicca. I was both excited and a little frightened. Let's face it, Wicca does not have favorable reviews in the Roman Catholic Church.

As time went on, my learning took on the aspect of the tides. I would learn and drift away to think. I would "rediscover" Wicca and move closer. Learn, and move away. It took me many years to discover that I am Wiccan. I am a Witch. I needed to unlearn the bias from my childhood and open my eyes to what Wicca really is... and is not.

I am pleased to announce that Saturday night, December 9, 2000, I
performed my initiation. I am now on the path that I feel is right for me. The fit is good. I have come home.

I still have lots to learn, but I am committed to the path. I feel whole and guess what, I'm not the strange one anymore. I found a group of people just like me! With the help of other solitaries and with the wisdom and guidance of the Ancient Ones, I will grow in perfect love and perfect trust. So Mote It Be.