h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Hello thanks to these forums (or is it fora?) and a general interest in the subject I've been looking at websites and reading what I can find about Wiccan beliefs. I'm very interested, I especially like Scott Cunningham's Earth Air Fire and Water ( I've read A Guide for the solitary practitioner too and like a lot of it too).

There's lots to think about in these two books and others I've read...so should I try out the ideas from these books and be patient or should I get hold of more books as my enthusiasm prompts? I suspect I'm in danger of getting too enthusiastic then confused but I'm an impatient person and want to know everything. What do you all suggest I do next?

This may sound like a 'cop out' but nonetheless I believe there is some truth in it:

Follow where your inclinations and temprament lead you. Some like to start doing things, others like a more 'intellectual' approach and want to study lots before beginning anything. You will also find that certain aspects of earth religion interest you more than others. Follow those that do.

Also, if your personality and circumstances permit, it is nice to find some others who share your interest. This can be in person or, these days, remotely, like on the web. [er...maybe thats sorta what is happening here] Some people like the structure of a highly organized group, others do not. And sometimes there just isnt one to be found, anyway. The web can also help in this area. witchvox and similar sites have listings of groups and solitaries by region.

And of course, if you do make contact with a group, apply the same rules of common sense as you would in dealing with any group or organization. [dont give 'em all your money, and dont do anything that is illegal or is contrary to your own moral instinct]

My own personal favorite starting place is 'The Wiccan Path' by Rae Beth. [Beth is the last name] It is written in the form of letters to new practitioners. Maybe not as clearly divided into sections as the Cunningham books, and no index, but the letters follow the seasons of the year. It was originally published in the UK by Robert Hale Ltd. It is available at Amazon.com for about $12.00 US. Dont know if it is still in print in the UK.

It is a nice book to lead someone into the practice of wicca. Sorta chatty, as if a friend was writing to you.

dunno if this helps too much, but follow where your instincts lead.
And if you would like to, email me at [email protected]

bb
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Thank you bludragon,

I've got a book by Rae Beth called Hedge witch a guide to solitary witchcraft which sounds like the one you recommend. I like what I've read of it so far- I've got basic knowledge about the seasonal celebrations and folklore but I've only just started reading books and sites about peoples own ideas of celebration and magic practices. I expect I will keep on reading and asking you and anyone else that answers any questions that come to mind - even if my thoughts are a bit random, don't feel you have to write a long answer (or any answer) if I'm being too vague or confused!

I'm a bit busy at the moment - I'm moving house in 2 days time - so I might not be around for a while. (don't sound too relieved- I'll be back

Hedge Witch is another of her books. And if you like it, you will probably like the other.

The thing about 'practicing' is to try things out and if you like it--keep doing it. We all like patterns in our lives. That's part of what the different ceremonies an' stuff are about. Helps us focus.

Glad to help. and I will be here when you come back, too.


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Hi. Umm, I'm a complete novice at all this stuff, in fact i have no books, knowledge or experience in this matter but i definitely know its something i want to find out more about. You guys sound like you know what you're talking about and I'd just kind of like some general information to ease me into this stuff. If you know anything that might help me (and I have a hunch you do) I'd love it if you could reply. Thanks.

Hullo, and merry meet, Tweetie!

I did a quick scan of postinge above yours to see what we were discussing 'xactly. And it appears as if the question was general information about Wiccan beliefs.

There is a rather short, but concise definition in the Guide at http://www.h2g2.com/A19423 . I am not the author of the article but it is referenced on the main page of this Wiccan Forum. I would say it is pretty accurate as far as it goes. But it doesn't go very far. And Morrigan, the author hasnt been around the Guide for quite a while.

I would make one note about the article:
I dont know if I would say wicca is exactly a 'branch' of paganism in the same way protestant sects are 'branches' of christianity. Because neither paganism nor Wicca are really organized religions the same way christianity is. Wicca and paganism are terms to help identify general belief systems.

For basic information about wicca, one of the places I like online is Witchvox. It is a VERY large site, and is oriented towards wicca in the US but they also have worldwide links.
Go to:
'Frequently Asked Questions about Witchcraft'
http://www.witchvox.com/basics/wfaq.html
and
The 'Witchcraft Basics' section
http://www.witchvox.com/xbasics.html

If you have more questions after that, come on back here and we will talk. I'll put the kettle on.


blu
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PS. In another life I was a librarian *wink, wink* and I DID do potty duty.

You're kidding! Well that's just wrong- libararians should never be forced into doing anything that normal mortals would do! Thanks for the info, its a bit late to check it out right now but I'm into that website ASAP over the next week!

Hey! Well I've been through that site a couple of times and I have to say I'm amazed. A huge majority of everything there agrees with my own belief system and it seems like something I definitely want to know more about. So, I've printed out their recommended reading list- guess I've got some heavy research in store now!

Glad Witchvox was helpful!
And stop back here if you have any questions or want to talk.


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Hello blu, I am still around but after moving my phone went off and the computer stopped working and I had 2 teeth out! I'm trying a few things out but a friend is staying with me now so I'm back to mostly reading! I may get round to e-mailing you in the not too distant future- but don't hold your breath

I think I'll go and have a look at your court, I had a quick look a couple of weeks ago, see you there hopefully.

Bye for now.

Oh, my goodness!!!!

So other than that, how's life???

Seriously, I am sorry to hear about all the ups and downs. My husband just had some teeth out, so I can sympathise about THAT. And we are getting ready to move in June, too. I am not recovered from moving two years ago [after being in the same place for over 20 years]. Moving is right up there in stress level. And being without a computer!!!!! Or h2g2!!! I cant imagine!!!

Hope you enjoy your visit to Damogran. Even if you do nothing other than read the conversations. I think some of the stuff is sorta entertaining. Thats the thing about it here at h2g2, you never know what's gonna happen.


blu
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Merry Meet

I've been learning about Wicca\witchcraft for over seven months now, reading books web pages etc. The first book I read was "Principles of Wicca" by Vivian Crowley, it opened my eyes, all my life I new there was something but it wasn't till then that I truley found it.

It would be nice to get in touch with "real witches" not just books, they can't talk back, and I'd like to discuss things with someone more experienced than me as I've a friend who asks the most bizarre questions that I sometimes can't find the answer to.

Merry part

Qoa

hullo again!

I haven't read the Vivian Crowley book, so I am curious about what attracted you about it.

There is a 'books' thread in this forum that discusses some other titles, but we haven't really talked about issues and ideas, just the names of good books to start with.

There seem to be quite a few wiccan/pagans around the guide, but they don't all drop in here. Some of the others who have posted are still investigating the ideas of wicca too. So feel free to talk about whatever interests you. Or tell us some of the bizarre questions you would like to have help answering. Maybe somebody will have some suggestions.
*munch, munch*
Care for a cookie?
*passes plate of butter cookies*

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It wasn't the book in it's self, just that for the first time I had a new view point on the world explained to me, a view point that I could understand. I've read other books since then all giving their own views, Teresa Moory, Marion Green etc. When I can afford it I'm going to get one by Starhawk (I think that's her name anyway).

Thanks for the cookie

Qoa