How/why did you turn to this 'religion'?

I was raised in a pagan family, although it was subtle and I didn't realise until my early twenties. Looking back I can remember my mother casting spells (although a lot of it could be considered old wives tales and superstition - the simple act of blowing out a candle on a birthday cake and making a wish is actually a spell if you think about it) and my father telling me not touch his tarot cards but as with most kids, I didn't think much of it. I was raised in the UK so celebrating the pagan undertones of common festivals like Christmas and Easter felt natural. We also as a community, and at school, celebrated May Day (Beltane) (I loved dancing round the maypole) and harvest festival (Mabon). So a lot of regular, traditional pagan festivities that were just a way of life for me.

Where did you find your information?

See above. I grew up as a pagan. When I realised my belief system had a name (I stumbled across it online) I joined some forums and talked to other pagans for advice. Some suggested books to read and I found other books at the library. There are a lot more around today than there were 15 years ago!

Do you meet with other pagans, attend events?

No, I'm very much solitary. Apart from family of course, though we are spread all over the world. My mother and father don't discuss it with me. I suspect because back then it was still considered with suspicion and perhaps they were reluctant to come out of the broom cupboard as it were. For fear of repercussion maybe. The Witchcraft Act was repealed as late as 1951 in England. Anyway, I discuss things with my brother who aligns with Asatru or Norse Pagansim. My sister claims to be agnostic. I also have a couple of friends who are pagan but we don't really get together. I don't really feel a need to.

How does it affect your day to day life?

Affect is not really the right word because it's part of who I am, it's my belief system. I don't do anything special. I observe the sabbats and esbats and I cast spells but mostly it's something I carry inside of me.


Hope that helps.