newbie edicit

[frigga]

I've been reading quite an interesting book loaned to me from a close Wiccan friend. It's about Myths and truths of modern Wicca and is really a great read for someone new to the path, or old. It's made me pretty sad at times though, because it really hits home some of the hardship I've gone through in my few years in Wicca. When you don't have anyone to guide you that you can trust, it's hard to know if what your learning is true and accurate. So those of you that are new, invest in getting to know those who claim big things, question them and demand answers that settle well with you. Many out there claim degrees and acheivements, backrounds and histories that are far from real. I know you've probably heard all of this before, I know I had, but it didn't stop me from getting wide eyed and excited when so and so from the best place on earth came by our group. I was let down with a big thud when I discovered they weren't all they were cracked up to be. Also, you don't need to be from a super witchy family, or have super powers to be a good wiccan or witch. I've meet many a newbie come to group ( I belong to a Pagan study group), claiming extravagant claims that don't ring true, and we can see right through them. These claims also take from individuals who truly do poccess such qualities, but ususally after YEARS of study and practice. So it's okay to say your new, from an ordinary family, and seeking, that gives you more credit than you know!

Just thought I'd write this stuff down. Many of you will run into those that slander and make pagan religions to be something other than what they were intended. Good luck on your quest!

[Mòrag Elasaid Ní Dhòmhnaill]

Are you talking about Out of the Shadows by Lilith McClellan? If so, I have that book, and though I'm not a Wiccan, I found it be a very interesting read. Quite informative and sheds a lot of light on what Wicca is.

[frigga]

yeppers, that'll be the one!

[Pan]

I've never even heard of it. I think it sounds wonderful, though. :) I started out Wiccan, and now I'm back to seeking. I don't know what I want, so I'm looking around.

[CaitrionaMorgaine]

She (frigga) borrowed it from me. And for the record, darling, I'm Pagan. But yeah, that book really hit home for me and it was nice to see much of what I said reflected in Lillith's writings.

Blessings, ~Rhiannon

[Phae Talon]

I really just think that Paganism is much like anything else. You wouldn't let someone sell you something without finding out all you could about the product, would you?

Just because someone is Pagan and claims degrees and whatnot doesn't mean that you have to be in awe of them. If they claim some kind of nifty power, ask them to demonstrate. If they claim that they can't do it while someone is watching (or some other lame excuse) ... then you should take that as a red flag. I think that as you get to know your path a little better, you will be a lot better able to pick out the frauds.

Critical thinking is the key. Many new pagans left Christianity because they didn't want to live swallowing every story hook line and sinker, right? Remember that ... just as anyone can become an ordained minister online without any training ... so anyone can claim Pagan titles that they haven't earned.

--Phae

[frigga]

And for the record, darling, I'm Pagan.

Oops! I thought your trad was Wiccan!* Kicking myself!* :gagged:

[Pan]

Remember that ... just as anyone can become an ordained minister online without any training ... so anyone can claim Pagan titles that they haven't earned.

--Phae

Very very well said.