Far from the common belief of Satanists, practices of black magic, or worshippers of evil, Wiccans are a benign people who are closely attuned to nature. Their first and only commandment is to harm none. It is a celebration of the moon phases and of the seasons, the positive male aspects and the negative female aspects of nature, the Goddess and the God. This is a religion closely aligned with the sun and the moon, the oceans and the forests, the mountains and the shores. As children of the Goddess and the God, we are all equal. We all play intricate roles in the universal scheme of things.
Instead of the ten commandments to guide us through life, we have only one: " An it harm none, do what thou wilt". This ever reminds us to be aware that every action that we take, every word we say and every thought that we think into fruition-- is similar to ripples in a pond. For every action there is a reaction. Wicca is an Earth religion, much like the Native American religion. Instead of worshipping within the confines of a building, we often hold our rituals outdoors in nature. We don't believe in Hell, the Devil, or "fire and brimstone". We do believe that evil exists in the world, but that humankind creates it's own evil and that such horrors are handled through the laws of "karma" and the lessons that reincarnation brings. We believe in the Threefold Law, meaning that everything you do, good or bad, comes back to you times three.
I am a Solitary Wiccan. I don't belong to a coven, I practice alone. It is very rare that I find someone who shares my affinity for Wicca. Thus, I am very reclusive when it comes to my spiritual practices. I have my own portable altar which allows me to practice anywhere, anytime. I call upon the north, south, east and west. I call upon the elements of earth, air, fire, water and spirit. I call upon the Goddess and God and thank them for my many blessings. I practice when I am alone and feeling at peace with myself and one with the universe. Practicing the Craft helps keep me grounded and centered.
In conclusion, Wicca is a religion of compassion and utmost mindfulness. The craft is generous, accepting and loving. It is unobtrusive, supportive and gentle. It is an ethical way of life that, once embraced, brings immeasurable joy and wonder to my everyday living.
