It’s likely that your family doesn’t fully understand what being a Wiccan entails, and if they do, they might assume Wicca is synonymous with dark magic. The same is true for your friends.
This article serves as a guide to help you explain to your family and friends that you are Wiccan, and that you do not engage in goat sacrifices, blood rituals, hex crafting, or any form of virgin offerings deep within the forest.
This is essentially a 5-step quick guide on managing conversations with family and friends who may be unfamiliar with your beliefs.
- *** YOU DESERVE RECOGNITION ***
In the US, religion encompasses a wide range of beliefs and customs, and the constitution guarantees freedom of religion, a FIRST AMENDMENT right. This allows individuals to practice their faith and hold their own spiritual beliefs. Wicca is indeed a recognized religion.
There are Wiccan soldiers in the US whose graves can be marked with the pentacle if they fall in service. Individuals seeking public office cannot be disqualified solely due to their religious beliefs. Legal repercussions can be enforced against anyone who ridicules your faith. But let’s not go down that path; you’re a peaceful Wiccan. 🙂
- *** BE PATIENT ***
Patience is essential when explaining your faith to someone. This is particularly true if they harbor preconceived notions about Wicca, and even more so if they are deeply entrenched in their views. They may question you, and some might even try to debate, which can make it hard to communicate effectively. However, hold on to your patience and remain kind, recognizing that you can coexist without demeaning each other’s faith.
- *** BE INFORMED ***
I’m not suggesting you need to know everything about Wicca. There will always be new things to learn across any religion. It’s the same with Wicca as with all faiths. However, being knowledgeable about core concepts such as Wicca’s origins, the Wiccan Rede (the law of three), the Divine, Sabbats, and Magic allows you to articulate your beliefs more clearly. This will help you represent Wicca well, making it easier to gain respect from those who hold erroneous views from popular culture.
- *** IT’S NOT ABOUT WINNING ***
Clarify that this isn’t about who’s right or wrong. Instead, it’s about fostering an open dialogue where you can express your beliefs without facing ridicule or ignorance. Your aim isn’t to convert your parents, partner, boss, or anyone else to join you in your rituals. You’re not in the business of converting others, and I trust you are aware of that. Resorting to “I’m right, you’re wrong” is a reaction to feeling threatened, which often occurs when someone attacks your beliefs. This brings us to the next point.
The 7 Tools of a Solitary Practitioner from the Moonlight Post
- *** KEEP YOUR COOL ***
Above all, stay calm when someone disparages or disrespects your faith. Maintain your patience, even if they resort to personal attacks. It is challenging to change someone’s mind once it is made up. Just as it is tough to persuade you to alter your beliefs, it’s similarly difficult for them. Accept that the world is filled with diverse individuals, and some can be particularly resistant when confronted with unfamiliar concepts.
Actively listen and try to comprehend their perspective. One effective method is to paraphrase their statements and pose them as questions. When they feel heard, they are more likely to reciprocate that respect.
Ultimately, be prepared to accept that your loved ones may not embrace your beliefs. Some folks disagree with Christianity, while others oppose Islam. It’s crucial to acknowledge that certain aspects are beyond your control and accept things as they are. Your peace and stability in your beliefs should not be influenced by the opinions of others. Nobody has claimed your beliefs should hinge upon someone else’s acceptance. Remember, as long as you do no harm, live as you wish and in harmony.
The Solar Cross of Essence from the Moonlight Shop
Have your family and friends been informed of your Wiccan faith? If so, what was your experience like when sharing with them? We invite you to share your thoughts in the comments section below. 🙂
Hey I just found out that I might be Wicca but I only have the photos on my phone how do I use the runes if there on my phone and how many are you meant to have at once?
First off I recommend u rethink this path of becoming a Wiccan it’s hard for us to live in a world in devoted to the god and goddess so if u have no rune stones go collect the stones that u feel speak to u I recommend collecting enough to make each letter on the theban alphabet find a bag or small sack of any kind to place them in say a prayer and begin to right each rune on ever individual stones any stones leftover are to be returned to the earth with a prayer of gratitude but if it’s on your phone it won’t work there is no true devotion that lies in your phone
as to be someone active on this path I am new and however my mother knows, perhaps knew I am taking some iconic path as she saw my changes in life. she is a wonderful person who has given me enough freedom to do whatever I want and choose whatever I prefer (even she joins in many ways to support me at times). therefore i am so good with going on this way when it comes to my family and we don’t really give a damn of what other members of our family says or thinks. they don’t interfere anyway. when it comes to friends and colleagues i am yet to openly disclose. I kind of opening up at the moment but I don’t think anyone has noticed that close yet. anyway since I am known to be someone unique and who has my own way of life and living I am sure it is going to be great. I would even have people who would want to try this path because I sometimes influence people around me naturally. I am finding my life purpose and so it really don’t matter what others think. as long as I serve the world and nature in good ways it is always a good life. Anyway in life you either get accepted or rejected. Yin Yang aspect. if not life won’t move on or you won’t find your way. it doesn’t matter. what matters is what you and your inner being is aligning into. just have fun with it and know you are here to do something to this existence. you don’t need any approval of anyone but you sincerity and willingness. Peace and blessings for all. <3