Parents Don’t Understand

Wiccan Responsibility – My Parents Don’t Understand…

Here are 2 related questions:

Dear Anand,
I am a 14 year old beginner. My friend has been studying for 4 1/2 years or more. My parents do not approve. They think the pentagram symbolizes evil and Satan. I explained the way it works with the upside down and all. This subject is one of few that fascinates me. I want to learn more. Also, my friend is always trying to teach me stuff, but I constantly forget it all. Is there a way to keep it all inside? Is there a method I need to use? Or am I hopeless?
~Mario

Dear Anand,
I have been investigating Wicca for sometime now. I want to get more involved but I’m having a few problems. You see my dad has it in his head that Wicca is like devil worshipping. One time I brought a book home from the library and he freaked. I don’t think my mom is wild about my interest either and I don’t know anyone who practices or is even interested in Wicca. Please help me; I don’t know what to do!
Love,
Jessica

Dear Mario,

Mario, no, you are not hopeless! You sound like a hopeful and interested person to me. These days we are bombarded with information and not one of us can be expected to remember it all, even the most important stuff. So next time you loose your keys or wallet or stuff about Greek mythology – just forgive yourself right away.

Heavens. that is what books, journals and diaries and are for – to help us keep track of all the stuff we may need to know sometime. Even Wiccans keep a Book of Shadows – to remember all the rituals and spells, etc.

Now Dear Mario and Jessica about your parents…

They might just think you are too young and impressionable and are worried about you getting mixed up information. And there really is a lot of bad information out there. I know that YOU know that Wicca itself is all good. But if they don’t… try to take a step back… Rather than try and preach to them and change their point of view, just accept that they love you and are concerned about you. You don’t want them trying to change your point of view now do you? So this is a wonderful opportunity for you to learn how to live and let live!

Keep up your reading on the recommended books and if you demonstrate happiness, kindness and success in your life – you just might change their minds about your beliefs!

If your parents really really object to you reading books about the subject – I know you probably don’t want to hear this – but maybe just give the subject some time to rest for awhile. If you let it slide and don’t make a big deal out of it, eventually they’ll forget about your interest. Then you can take up reading all the books you want in a year or so. Don’t worry, the truths that you will learn about Wicca will not be changing – they’ve been around for hundreds and hundreds of years and waiting one year or two might make you appreciate it even more. Think of it as a planned “mystical abstinence” and you will reward yourself with books and a special ritual when your waiting period is up.

Remember change happens. But it’s in God’s and Goddess’s time, not always in ours. I know you will keep the faith!

Blessed Be.

~Anand