My names Jess and I'm young, in my early teens, and I've been researching Wicca, Paganism, magic (white) and other occult arts for well over a year and a half and I'm sure this is the way I want to live my life, I know that I want to be involved with Wicca etc but how do I begin? I've gotten a book and started writing my own book of shadows with the Wiccan rede in the front page, but out of fear of my parents finding it (my dad was christened and my mum is catholic, I don't know what they would say or do, whenever me or my sister ever try and tell them stuff like this they always brush it off and say "it's a phase" and you get shouted at if you bring it up again neither one of them are 'strong' in their religion, we don't go to church or anything) back on to the point, I hud my book and all my other Wiccan stuff at the back of my closet. My other Wiccan 'stuff' consists of my Wiccan calendar (shows moon phases, when to do spells and rituals etc) horoscope books, Wiccan magazines etc all bought in secret with my own money. Therefore I'm going to make one on my iPad as it has a password and is always with me. I know it's wrong of me to do it behind there backs, but I just can't tell them, I will when I'm older, but not now. I haven't performed any spells yet, a few chants but that's about it, but I don't have any supply's, like candles and other essences. I'm lucky enough however, there is a Wiccan shop, not to far from my house, but I still think it's quite a bit too far to cycle, so every time we go to this town, my mum goes to a craft shop next door and I visit the shop and look at the candles etc but considering my age I'm not actually sure I'm allowed to buy these candles. What do you suggest? What other supplies will I need? Is it right to not tell my parents? Should I still do spells without them knowing? I mean they can stop me looking on the computer at Wicca and spells and take away my supplies, but the can't stop me from being my own person and I'll always be Wiccan and they can't force me to be someone I'm not so its a bit of a sticky situation.
Hi Jess, I know its hard when you're still living with your parents and they don't support your religious choices. But do understand that their stance is built on the teachings of their own religion and on their love and concern for your welfare.
Personally, I believe that as long as you're living under their roof you need to follow their rules. There will be plenty of time to pursue your own religious practices when you are no longer a minor and can move out on your own.
That doesn't mean that you have to give up your beliefs, just that you don't practice them in your parent's home. And you can use this time to explore a variety of subjects that aren't necessarily Witchy but which will stand you in good stead later when you can truly become Wiccan if that is what you still wish.
Here are some things that I strongly suggest to young Wiccans whose parents don't approve of their practices:
- Focus on academic studies.
- Read about different mythologies, cultures, and the history of ancient peoples.
- Learn about the natural world where they live (the animals, plants, trees, and geology of their part of the world).
- Attend spiritual worship services of diverse faiths.
- Write and journal their thoughts and feelings.
- Pray and meditate.
- Give back to the world through community service.
- Embrace physical, mental, and emotional health.
And of course you can continue to read and post here on SOM if you'd like. There are a lot of good posts here in the Wicca section that you might find useful.
By the way, don't worry about doing spellwork at this time in your studies. Spellwork is really a tiny part of what it means to be Wiccan. At this point the emphasis of your studies should be on the religion of Wicca and on building a personal relationship with the God and the Goddess.
I agree with Lark, and I'm in a similar position. My parents eventually found out though, finding the research on my phone without my permission. Believe me it didn't go down well, they are Catholic like your parents and yelled at me for a long time, but then they found it funny. They talked to their friends about it and now they think I'm some insane teen who thinks I'm in hogwarts or something :(
So I would keep it a secret, and be safe about it :) that's all the advice I got lol
BB )o(
You ARE allowed to purchase candles at a young age. I purchased candles at the age of 11. I know it may be hard when you want supplies to practice with, But you can make them, or improvise. E.g: Instead of a wand, you can use your finger, or even a pencil. You can easily make one as well. If you go outside, there are many sticks that you can decorate and turn into your wand! However, If you are taking it from a tree, Please ask it first :) I am still in the 'Broom Closet' to my parents, but I have a fully functioning altar. It is easy to make one, but hide it at the same time. Either you can make it, and keep your door shut, or you can make a portable one. You can get a large box and make your altar on it, and then pack it away when you are done. As far as candles go, Asking your friends is always a good idea too. If they are true friends, they will accept Wicca and may even buy you some supplies like Candles or Incense. Spells or rituals can be done in the open air. A quiet field or your garden is a good place for spells, especially because you are connecting with nature. IF you cant actively practice either, Meditating is a good idea.
FireGarnet, I believe what the OP is saying is that they're parents do not permit them to have candles in their room, probably because of concerns about possible fire hazards. That's different from not being able to purchase them. And I believe that they should abide by what their parents ask in regards to things like this.
