So You Want to Be a Witch

polar-solstice:

Well then welcome! You’re most of the way there. Here’s some commonly asked questions and the best answers I can give you:

Q: What kind of witch am I?
A: Whatever kind you want to be.

Q: How do I get started?
A: Start reading. Read everything. Here’s some things to read. Be critical. Remember that its not all written in stone and see what jives with you. Witchcraft is very, very personal, so see what calls to you and study it. This isn’t like being a mechanic or a doctor or a lawyer, you don’t need certifications and to go through a set series of courses. You chose your pace, you chose your course of study.

Q: What should I do. Like spell wise? What’s a good first spell?
A: Well what do you need done? That’s the thing, there’s no one good guide. Start with something manageable that needs to be done. Start pouring energy into things you already do. Add energy to a cup of tea while you stir it. Try enchanting a pencil for homework help. Cleanse your house while cleaning. Start with small, mundane things that need to be done, and try to get comfortable working with these energies. 

Q: I don’t have deities! Who’s going to help me?
A: You don’t need deities, you can practice secular witchcraft, and its ok if that changes over time. That’s fine. You can help you. You can generate energy. You can draw energy from the earth, from the sea, from the universe. Its ok. You can do this.

Q: People tell me this isn’t real, or that this is a product is a symptom or signifier of mental illness. Are they right?
A: Witchcraft appeals to a lot of people who feel small and helpless. Many times this includes mentally ill people, and can be a tool for them to regain their sense of agency in this world. But so can religion, and we don’t generally harass Christians or Jews or Muslims or Buddhists who believe. We don’t harass people with other beliefs. If you have some kinds of mental illness, then some kinds of witchcraft may not be for you. If you have psychotic episodes, some kinds of meditation may exacerbate some of your symptoms. People with ADHD may not even be able to meditate, and may have problems with ritual magic. That’s ok. As long as you are happy and feel healthy, then that is all that matters.

Q: I hear that this is evil or false. Is it?
A: Its not fake. Magic is real. Magic is reality that scientists have not yet explained. And it isn’t any more evil than you yourself are. 

Q: I already have religious beliefs and I’m told that I can’t be a witch unless I abandon them. Is this true?
A: NOPE. You can practice secular witchcraft, or incorporate your existing beliefs. Honest. And more than that, you’re not alone. There are other people like you in the world and on tumblr. You’re good.

Q: When can I call myself a witch?
A: Its the same as calling yourself a swimmer or a knitter or a painter or a cook. At the point at which you perform the verb, basically. At the point when you’re practicing witchcraft. 

Q: Wait! What if I have more questions?
A: Then research it or ask someone! Most witches who run blogs are pretty happy to answer questions, and may have already posted the answer somewhere online.