Teenagers and Young People Discovering Paganism

1.

Don't load yourself down with silver jewellery, pentacles, black makeup and clothes because that's how you think Pagans dress. It is great for shock value, but it doesn't represent the way Pagans dress. If you want to be taken seriously, dress in your own personal style. Don't change your clothes because you want to change your religion. You might risk those who have been practising Pagans for years to just look on you as Pagan wannabe's and they will probably tell you to go away and come back when you are serious.

2.

Do read everything you can get your hands on. We will recommend books later. Most bigger bookstores carry books on Wicca and Paganism or will order them for you. Don't forget to check out your local magical store or occult shop. Support those you want to support you! The more you read, the better informed you will be. Lastly, do keep an open mind — you will find information in the most unlikely places.

3.

Don't give anyone MONEY or SEX to teach you. It is against Wiccan beliefs to charge for knowledge. If it is a workshop like incense-making, usually a donation of $5.00 is asked to cover supplies used. Sometimes your local college or university will offer courses on Witchcraft or Pagan religions. This is fine too. When an individual or coven offers to teach you a specific tradition for a cost, where it is not covered by a school or other institution, then you shouldn't be charged. You might be asked to occasionally bring candles or flowers or such; this is not considered cost but rather contributing to the group. Do not let anyone tell you that sex is a part of being taught Wicca or Paganism, that you must contribute to or sleep with the High Priest or High Priestess. This is an out-and-out lie. No one has the right, either monetarily or sexually, to impose or demand that of you. Abuse is abuse. Sex in Wicca is not part of Pagan training.

4.

Do ask yourself why are you interested in Wicca or Paganism. This is the first question any teacher will ask you. Be honest with yourself.

5.

Don't rush into doing elaborate rituals. Some adult students don't do any rituals for at least a year while they are leaning the how's and why's. This is serious stuff. Just because you want to, doesn't mean you should or can. What people don't realize, mostly because it isn't glamourous or magical, is that very little is needed to be Pagan or Wiccan. It is all intent — not how beautiful your incense holder is or how great you look in a robe. Being Pagan means living it, walking the walk. Recycling and being gentle to the Earth is Pagan, being conscious of what you eat is Pagan, how you view yourself and others is being Pagan. Sitting in a wooded area with your eyes closed, listening to your surroundings is the magic. The fact that you decided to sit and close your eyes is the ritual. Remember, the Gods don't care how they are worshipped, only people care.

6.

If you insist on giving yourself a Craft name, don't use Lady, Lord, Mistress, Master, Queen or Magus. These are reserved for 3rd degree individuals of certain traditions who have spent decades in the tradition and their peers and Coven members have given them the titles as a sign of respect. Not all traditions use these terms, but some do recognize them. Be original — do some research. You wouldn't believe how many Merlins there are out there.

7.

Do develop a skill like Tarot cards, Runes or something else that interests you. You would have to learn these anyway as part of your teaching, so you might as well be ahead of the game.

8.

Do e-mail us if you have any questions. We are willing to advise and answer questions.