People with the closed mines always give me trouble when i wear my pentacle. When they see it they automatically think i worship Satan and that really gets on my nerves. I tell them point down it evil and point up is good. I always where my pentacle unless i have to take it off for track or something. People just need to understand wicca a little more, bit that might not help. I just wish i was born into a Wiccan family cause then it might be easier with the religion as well. Thanx
ceber@ix.netcom.com

i am a 21 year old mother of 2. i am proud to call myself a witch. i have been practicing ever sence i can remember. i am raising my sons on my belives. i wear my stars openly. i get criticized about it at work in public and every other place. i feel sorry for them. i am a strong woman with a strong faith in the old ways. i have friends who are interrested in what i belive. most people i know like me for me. people in my place of work have suggested that i remove my stars,i simply tell them when you take off your cross ill take off my stars. after that they leave me alone. i do not think it is fair. i only hope that it will get easier for me and my sons to speak openly on what we belive. i am glad that there are sites like this. thank you for letting me know that i am not alone.

blessed be,
IVY2RAVEN

Wearing pentacles in public, this is kind of funny, I kind of like some of the reactions I get out of people when I were one. I was a work on easter, my employer didn't care if we wore necklaces as long as they don't get in the food, I went to go check on some fine ladies and it just so happen to be that they were nuns, they saw my pentacle and freaked, I had to go into the station ( were we stacked dirty plates and silver ware) and laughed so hard I started to cry. It was cruel of me to laugh but I never expected to see a nun in a buffet and notice such a small item of jewelry. People preach of god to me but god's never helped me out especially through my parents divorse. But I like this religion a lot better, it's more helpful. But I shrug of the coments and give pitty to those who betray the beliefs by pushing theres on me.

Sincerely,
Celitia

Yes, I do where my pentagram in public. I am still in school and very frequently the principal and vice-principals confront me and my fellow followers and tell us to remove our pentagram or else they will phone our parents to come pick us up. I have been discriminated from being in several clubs and doing certain school activities because of my being a practicing witch. But with every negative comment about being "devoted to satan ( which I do not believe in)" I grow stronger and love my religion even more. Even if I must take my pentagram off, everyday I draw one on my left palm. I hope someday that young witches, like myself, will not have to put up with this kind of behavior and are treated like others.

~Sonar

I'm in the ninth grade. I normally don't take off my pentagram accept to go to sleep and for wrestling. My Coach always used to ask me to take it off until I explained my beliefs to him now he respects that I wear it and supports the rest of the wiccans in the school and has stood up to the school board when they tried to pass a rule saying we couldn't wear them anymore the school board still doesn't understand but I decided that just convincing my Coach that wicca wasn't evil was enough. Now he can teach his two sweet little boys that ignorance is the only evil, and they should never look for scapegoat. My point just happens to be for you people that get mad at people for asking you to take it off. Maybe instead off getting Mad you should educate them.
Leah

Merry Meet!

I have always worn my pentagram since I first started studing Wicca ten years ago at 18 (I was raised Catholic and went to catholic school-got in trouble for "always" questioning everything the nuns taught us-and my parents wouldn't let me wear one or study the craft until I was out of their house). At first I wore it under my shirt then as I became more confident in my knowledge of the craft it came out of my shirt and I wear it proudly. I've been very lucky to not have experienced much negetivity about it. I am a very open Wiccan/Witch and generally people who actually want to know about Wicca ask-the others just look at me weird and go on their merry way. This past Yule I gave my 3 children (ages 10, 7 & 5) their own and they wear theirs proudly also. If we hide them "society" wins. I realize that some people are not able to express their faith openly and I pray everyday that it will change. I think the best way is for people to openly wear them to let others know just how many of US there are. And when people can determine the kind of person you are by your actions and not appearance or religion this world will be truly at peace. Let's pray it will be soon!
Brightest Blessings to you all!!
Merry Part until we Merry Meet Again!!
Winter Rose

Merry Meet! Well, not only do I wear my Pentacle, I have one Tattooed on my back! The only people I do not wear it in front of are my elderly parents, an that is only because they are devout Christians and thier health is poor. I dont feel it would befair to try to ask them to understand my choice at thier age, it would only worry them and I dont want that. The only people that have commented have been other Pagans I have met up with and unsually they see it and say "Blessed Be!" which I love! My Tatto is there because I want to have my Pentacle with me always, but the jewlery I wear not only shows everyone I am a proud Wiccan, but invites others I meet up with to approach me and say hello!

Blessings and light,
Joie Summer

Yes I do. I have not yet encountered any negative comments about it. My boss asked me to change my screensaver that had pentacles on it but that was okay. It is a work environment and you have to be selective about what you put on your computer nowadays. Every one tries to be so PC.

I have had a couple people tell me (in a religious discussion) that they were worried about me because they thought I was being tricked or scammed by "these people" who call themselves witches. I responded that I couldn't be tricked because nobody influenced me to be a witch, I found out what it was for myself and chose the path.

I have yet to run into really negative comments or feelings and if I do I guess I'll just try to explain it and take their opinion with a grain of salt because ignorance is everywhere and it will never go away.
Willow

I am new to Wicca and recently bought my first pentagram. I wear my pentagram most of the time. I do hide it at work because I work in a school district. I know they are not allowed to discriminate against me because of my religion, but I don't want to take any chances. So far no one has said anything about it to me, either at work or in public.

I have had a few very rude people make comments to me online. I just ignore them. Why should I respond to people who are so narrow minded? I don't comment about anyone else's religion. We are taught to respect other religions. I think all religions should teach that principle, but I know it won't happen any time soon.

Many people have the wrong idea about "Witches." They imagine the Hollywood stereotypes. I am not saying Hollywood is to blame for this. I think people should learn the facts and not judge others based on a single word. In our society people are too fast to judge others. Labels are a convenient way to judge others. For some reason Pagan religions are not respected by others. I think the only way to change this is by educating others.

Recently where I live a teenage girl sued her high school for the right to wear her Pentagram. She won the suite. I hope school districts around the country will learn from this case.

I love your web site. Blessed be!
Dee

I do wear mine. The only time I ever put it away (and this is not always) is in front of my mother, as I was raised christian and even if I told her that I was wiccan, she wouldn't believe me. I have never really had a problem with friends. They all seem very open minded to the fact that this is the religion that suits my needs and as long as I don't push it on them (and they don't push theirs on me) We all get along fine.

No one has ever actually called me a satanist... I have had people come up to me asking why I wear the sign of the devil around my neck, but I just calmly explain to them that that is an upside down pentagram they are thinking about and that my religion has nothing to do with satan or devil worship. When explained more clearly most people understand, or at least drop the subject.

As for trying to improve the negativity, I don't think there is anything that we CAN do. The church has clouded so many minds for so many years that I don't think that people even want to know the truth anymore. Ignorance is bliss they say. I think that when people are ready, they will learn, read, and ask questions. They will find out when they are prepared that we are not all bad.

Blessed Be,
Maeve

Yes. As a matter of fact I where three most of the time. I never take off my Pentagram neclace and Most of the time I where the matching earings. Most of my friends and family know that I am Wiccan. Actually two or three of them borrow my books. I haven't had much question due to this, but the other day I was at my mother's, (she doesn't know), and her minister showed up. He didn't say anything about them but he did start preaching and I had to bite my tounge for my mother's sake. I feel very comfortable about who I am and my beliefs. If someone asks me about it, I tell them. Usually it leads to a much bigger conversation.

By the way, I love your page.

Love, Light, and Peace be with you.
Sister Jade

Greetings Everyone,

I have been walking the Pagan path since before I even knew what it was. My parents raised me to love Mother Earth and I have worshipped her and prayed to her all my lfe. I started reading about the ancient Celts when I was 13 and curious about my heritage. Here I found out about Witchcraft and Paganism and realized that it shared my beliefs and gave me a name for what I had been doing all along.

I hid my religion from the world until I hit high school when I felt confident that I could defend my values in an adult manner. I also figured people would be mature enough to understand my beliefs.....boy was I wrong. I quickly became known as "that freakie metal-head chick". People were afraid to ask me about my unusual jewelry, but when someone did finally talk to me about my beautiful silver pentagram necklace, they found that I was not a "Satanist" but a person who is very friendly and funny and who has a great respect for life. I tried to point out the parallels of both Paganism and Christian religions and how many Christian holidays were adopted from the Pagans. Through educating people I slowly began to be accepted for the person I was and, actually, I made some people reconsider their own religion.

I am now 23, happily married, and have a beautiful 18 month old son. Many of my friends from high school now join me in my worship, but I still need to explain myself sometimes in public when approached about my necklace. I suppose people see that I am an intelligent woman and are more willing to learn about something new when you explain it to them simply and sincerely. Most importantly I always remember to let them know that I'm not trying to take over the world or convert them and that I respect their choice of religion. This always seems to make others naturally respect you.

Brightest Blessings--Kerry-- (aka Mutherwulf)

Hi! I have a pentacle necklace that I wear always (except for when I'm dressed formally). I'm rather pleased to say that I haven't had any problems with it. I got it at the renaissance festival, and it is made to look similar to a flower (but you can still tell what it is). Most of my friends and classmates don't mind the fact that I am wiccan.
Goth16x@aol.com

I wear a small, sterling silver pentagram constantly, in fact, I never remove the necklace except to bathe. I have had people ask me about it, and I simply tell them that it is a symbol of my religion. A few have been curious and asked for more details concerning my religious beliefs, and it depends on the person as to how much I tell them...some can handle hearing more than others. Most of my friends know what religion I follow and have accepted it as me being me, even asking for my help at various times. I have never been asked to hide or remove my pentagram...in fact, my boss, who is Jewish, loves it! She thinks it's very pretty and doesn't mind me wearing it openly. Others in my office have asked me about it and little by little they are learning about my beliefs and have no problems with it...they merely accept it as part of who I am. Not everyone is as fortunate as I am in this regard, but I thank the Goddess that I have such wonderful co-workers and friends.
ravenella@hotmail.com

I feel sorry for people whom are so closed minded to other peoples interest and religions.For one I'am very opened minded thats where I think I came to be so interest in the wiccan religion. I would never slam anyone for their belifes , I grew up in Ohio ,went to a pentcostal church. I grew up scared of everything I felt it was a sin when I tried to express myself or anything I did . I feared everyday was my last day,or some big beast that looked like a goat was going to kill me in the night. Since leaving that all behind I have peace, love , and real friendship. Why do our lives have to be based upon being so closed minded , and fearful of everything. I am proud to be whom I am. I am loving gentle and a free spirit , I spread kindness to wherever I can. Yes, I do scare some people, but, Oh well they will miss out on a lot!!!!!!!!
Thank you
Tina Lawwill

I have been fortunate enough not to have suffered violent reaction to my beliefs. Mental strain was a constant in my home town. (The Baptist Coalition banned movies such as The Exorcist, until the general population rose up in defence.)

When it comes to questions, I merely explain the basic tenents. If they are so narrow minded that they berate me, I leave them to their ignorance. Some people won't listen, no matter what. Try not to waste positive energy on them. Just walk away.
Blessed Be )O(
Raven

Merry Meet!
I live in a small, Midwestern town in the middle of that most wonderful of places, the Bible Belt. I have both a pentagram ring and a beautiful necklace I just bought, which I always wear. Being in High School, I get plenty of crap from the usual bunch of idiots, as well as seemingly intelligent people. Of course, I was called "Devil-Worshipper" long before I became a Wiccan. But I suppose that is the burden we have to bear, until someday we are accepted.

By the way, if there are any Pagans in Michigan (or anywhere) who would like to make themselves known, I love getting e-mail and may even write back!
Black_Cat_66@yahoo.com

...........yes I do, in fact I wear two, hence the nickname "Twopent". Where I live in Northampton, England there's a Christian group called the Jesus Army. They regularly appear in the town centre handing leaflets out and "spreading the word". It is unfortunate that they especially "prey" on the young and deprived. They often have their "battlebus" in the town on Friday/Saturday nights hoping to interest younger people who frequent the pubs and clubs. Anyway, I digress. These people have often challenged me after I've been handed a leaflet taking the line of they can save my sole or they repent my evil ways. I simply reply that satan is a christian idea and that they'd be better off getting their own house in order and getting their fact right. Alas my replies usually fall on deaf ears. I think I'll have to find a badge saying "No hawkers, salesmen or christians"!

Blessed Be
Twopent

On September 8, 1998 I began my 1 year and 1 day study to become a solitaire witch. I have been researching witchcraft for the past four years via internet and books-a-million. I've always been open about it. I've been called "Satans child" quite a few times in the past anyway (no one expected any different out of me). The most stunning thing about my research is that nearly all of the beliefs in the Wiccan religion that I found, I already believed in my heart. I found MY religion!

I was raised by my grandmother with very strict religious rules (pentecostal). These were the people calling me "Satans child" from the time I was 12 until I progressed to his lover around 17. I have never been a religious person. I do not like "church", I never have. It always seemed so....wrong. I felt guilty because I was scared I didn't believe in God and I was going to hell but I just couldn't do it. About three years ago I started finding some sites created by "witches" not by Christians.

Now.....I can awake every morning, look outside and see my creators. That is something to believe in!

I do not tell everyone that I worship the Wiccan way because that is when they shut their ears. Instead I tell them of the things I learn from a "dummy" perspective. Like, "Hey! Do you know how Halloween really came about." and "Man... witches don't even believe in Satan." I live in the Bible Belt in North Louisiana, not far from VooDoo land (New Orleans). There are a lot of kids here that rebel against their parents, whom of course are Christains, so the kids turn to Marilyn Manson and go digging up graves and destroying cemetaries, painting pentagrams and shit. Then the Christians assume there are some adults somewhere casting spells to draw in their little darlings.

My research and knowledge on Witchcraft is excepted as legit because I write stories for a hobbie and everyone knows it. I started a story about a girl accused of witchcraft because she stood up to the "parson" when he "felt her up" during a prayer over her. - I have a severe case of endometriosis and so does my girl character. The parson is called for help for the severe pains - anyway..... this story is my excuse for research when I need it. In the past few months I have had a lot of friends come to me with questions about the craft, especially tarot readings. They are showing a real interest in all aspects. They know I have never been a Christian. But now they see me more at peace with my self and my family. I do not seek revenge on my enemies and I'm just an all around nicer person. I spend most of my spare time and money on studying the craft. Currently I am using Silver Ravenwolf's Book "To Ride a Silver Broomstick" to get me through my year and a day. "It's a great book!"

On September 11 '98 I lost my job because it was rumored that I am a witch. Although that was not their excuse, they came up with something else but the office manager was a Pro Fake Christian, she got wind of it and now I sit and draw unemployment benefits. In the evironment I live in I must accept that I cannot shine my pentacle to everyone but I am happy and so are the ones I love. I have found my peace and I do not need to advertise --- it is not for sell!

Blessed Be! Dana DragonFire

PS My daughter is my clone. She is also interested. I catch her sneaking a peak in my books. I let her read some of "To Ride a Silver Broomstick". She read the first three chapters in just a few hours, she is only 9, but VERY smart. I have explained to her how people feel about it and why and that she must keep it a secret but I'm scared that "the secret" will bother her in some way that I won't see. If anyone has any suggestions on how I can handle this they would be very much appreciated.

I do encounter problems with my pentagram. I have been wearing a small silver charm on my necklace along with other items for about a year now and people do comment. I have had the "the cross is evil if you turn it upside down, same with the pentagram" conversation a few times now, but no one listens. I often make sure it is tucked in my shirt when around family or bosses. I wish that wasn't necessary but people do have too many preconceived notions about what it means and sometimes it is better just to avoid the confrontation in the first place.

D. White

This guy at work and I are wiccan and we both have pentagram jewelry. One day our boss told him to tuck his necklass into his shirt. I think that is wrong but he didnt want to make a big deal out of it and neither did I so I stopped wearing my ring. I really just got into to wicca so it didnt really bother me that much but now that its an important part of my life and I know more about wicca it kind of upsets me that people are still so ignorant about it they wouldnt ask a catholic person to tuck in their cross and the pentagram is like a cross to us. Im not affraid to tell the people at work that im wiccan but when I tell them they all have the same reaction lets be nice to her or shell turn us into a toad or something stupid like that but after I explain to them what being wiccan is they seem okay with it. I think that if we were able to explain to everyone what being wiccan means that they would be alot more excepting of our religion.
rviens@bcn.net

I have worn my pentacle in public ever since I bought it app. 3 years ago. I have had some trouble since then, both at school and around town, but not too much. I just blow off the ignorant people I go to school with (which has apparently worked since no one really bothers me much anymore *shrug*). Mostly the problems at school were just stupid rumors, such as how my friend and I put a spell on the baseball team so they would lose, and other such nonsense. The worst thing that has happened to me because I came out about my beliefs is when some students placed the corpse of a squirrel on the roof of my car for me to find when I went to lunch. That really hurt my feelings, not because I am offended by such ignorance, but because they took the body of a living animal and defaced my automobile with it. If I am supposed to be so "evil" then why are the "good" x-ians the ones who are killing animals to put on unsuspecting peoples' cars? (I think I should mention that I do not know how the squirrel was obtained, but that even if it wasn't killed specifically for the purpose of insulting me, it was still a wasted life.) Why don't I do that if I'm "evil"? Because I'm not, but some people just don't listen. I walked into a store uptown once, and this woman kept giving me really hateful looks. As I was walking out of the store, she commented loudly to the cashier (staring me down the entire time), "When are people going to realize that they have got to have God in their lives?!" I rolled my eyes and walked out. The funny thing to me is (funny weird, not funny ha-ha) that some "preppy" girl at my school started wearing a pentacle because it was "trendy" and she had no inkling of an idea what it meant! No one ever made a negative comment to her about it. She stopped wearing it because I saw her one day, walked up, smiled brightly at her, and said, "Hey, I didn't know you were Wiccan!" She became very flustered, and said, "Umm...I'm not!" Her boyfriend gave it to her, she said. (She obviously didn't realize that I knew she did not have a boyfriend at the time.) The thing about wearing a pentacle in public now that "New Age" stuff is "trendy" and "stylish" is that if you see someone wearing one you don't really know if they are truly on the path or just trying to look "cool". (Usually intuition can tell one if someone else is truly Wiccan, whether you see them sporting Wiccan jewelry or not, though.) I have probably written way too much, but I felt that I should give my input, so here it is.

Brightest Blessings!
Creedl )o(

I must say that this is a hugely debated subject for those involved in the craft. I have to admit thought, that wearing mine has brought only good. Wearing my pentagram has always opened doors of conversation about my beliefs, and given me a chance to talk about it. Most people are fascinated by the fact that it represents the elements and the spirit. I use the explanation that it represents that I, the spirit, am connected with all the elements of the earth. With the ever increasing awareness of our environment, people are becoming more attuned to Mother Earth, whether they're aware of it or not. As for the satanic questions, simply explaining the twisted connotations that have been applied to it is always an interesting conversation! People are always amazed to find out that the upside down pentagram most likely represents darker, more sinister things, Satanism or not, and it is only one way that all these misconceptions have been applied to the pentagram. Explaining the proper way to wear it, the beliefs behind it has gained me respect from many, of course not all, of those I have spoken to. A witch's greatest magic lies within the knowledge of her craft. With this knowledge the barriers can be slowly taken down, and a greater understanding of Wicca can be sought.
Solitarywitch

Greetings...
Let me start by saying that I am a part of the social class entitled "Freaks." As a Freak I have little to none concern with what other people think of me... I mean, I wear chains on my boots, my nails are always painted black... etc...etc... But, on occassion, when someone does ask me about my Pentagram, I simply reply that it is a symbol of Humanity and the Five Elements...(Though I have to explain that in that reference I'm calling the Spirit one of the Elements.). This gets an answer of "oh, cool..." about 90% of the time. Though, there are a few people who try and call it satanic... To those people I simply quote them the verse from their bible about "thou shalt not suffer a Witch to live, and ask them if they are going to kill me now. When they say no, as they all do, I tell them they are a heretic, and that it they tried they would be one as well. The latter being because their bible also says that "thou shalt not commit murder." Then, I tell them that they need to learn their own beliefs properly before they start condemning me for mine... This usually completely confuses them and I move on about my way as they try to figure out what I just told them. :) And, only one person has not been confused... He tried to go into some long-winded explaination about how the bible was not contradicting itself... I just left him talking to himself... :) But, not all christians are bad. My mother is one, and she supports me 100% in my beliefs...

But that is just the way I see it...
western_dragon@hotmail.com

I wear my Pentagram from the time I get dressed for work, untill it's time to retire. I have worn it at my place of employment, and when asked what it is, I let people know. Most people are sastisfied with the answer I give (I'm a Witch/Pagan), others mistake it for the Star of David, and to some I say it's the Star of Solomon.
Blessed Be
Stephen

I would have to say that I agree with Aurora. Why should Wiccans be singled out for wearing a symbol of their religion when Christians do it all the time without question? I have a lot to learn, but I feel that all religions should be respected, as that is what that individual person believes in, and who is anyone to question their beliefs? So wear your pentagrams with pride, and don't let anyone stop you!!
Blessed Be
Chris.Sellers@btinternet.com

Reading your feedback on whether or not to wear your pentagram in public, and I was a little disturbed....It seemed that the major concern of your readers writing these e-mails that they not be associated with Satanism...So I must pose the question - - what is wrong with Satanism? Satanism has no belief in the christian deity of Satan, only what he represents. Is there anything wrong with doing whatever makes you happy? Just wanted to throw my 2 cents in...
Communion@Satanville.com

I have been wearing a pent even before I knew its true meaning, even before I practiced the craft. I know now why I wore it. It was a symbol of my path to come and I didn't even know it. I have always been drawn to witches and witchy things ever since I was a little girl. My journey to the craft and her sister religions is a long one and doesn't really matter, the fact remains I am here now.

I am a strong willed individual and when asked about the pentagrams/pentacles I wear daily I tell in the hopes of educating those who still attach the pent to devil worshippers. When I say I wear pents daily I mean, a bracelet, earrings, necklaces, you name it its a pent. Silver of course, the metal of the Goddess. A message to all: Do not be afraid of being who you are. Fear keeps us from many things. Wicca/Witchcraft and all other earth based religions are protected under the First and Fouteenth Amendents. Do not let anyone at work tell you you cannot wear your symbol of faith. When they do, tel then you are within your rights as a United States Citizen. Just as christians and jews are able to wear their symbols of faith so must you be aware that you can also.

I am a legal secretary and work for none other than a labor and employment law attorney. I have been working for him for the past ten years. There is nothing that he nor anyone can do to me by way of firing me because of my religious beliefs. People, educate yourselves. Be strong. If we hide our religious beliefs that just gives others more power to try to do away with us. Let us stand up for what we believe. Once they see that we are no longer in hiding much of the stereotype will begin to be diminished. Educate yourself on the history of the Craft, the meaning of the pent and every possible come-back tha someone can give you. Do this in a loving and peaceful manner always.

I am a member of MoonFire Coven online http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Aegean/1397 and have my own website which I am currently working on http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Ithaca/7748/index1.html

If there are any questions you have that I can be of help with, please, do not hesitate to contact me. If I don't know the answer, I can possibly research it for you. I spend lots of time studying my chosen path and there are many knowledgeable members within the coven that would be willing to help also.

Brightest Blessings to All.
TheWitchingHour@webtv.net

As for how I handle those who ask prying questions when I wear my Pentagram, I try to respond intelligently and thoughtfully to their questions. If they are sincerely interested and curious, they will listen. Those who are trying to start a fight or an arguement; or "prove" me Satanist, I generally leave them feeling a little embarrassed.

I wear my Pentagram openly at work, and from time to time I get curious stares as I walk by. Some ask me what it is and what it represents. Depending on who it is, and how well I know them and their likely reaction, I respond differently. I have more trouble from the "good Christians" who can't seem to understand or have the ability to listen to anyone's views other than the views they have been taught and ordered to follow. I hurt one of those persons feelings accidently one day when I refused to accept a copy of the New Testament.

He said the Lord had told him to give it to me and I replied "is that so?" I told him I had already read his book, and gave him some of my "book" to read. I told him I wasn't interested in being converted by him, that I wasn't out to convert anyone to my beliefs, and that any time he wanted to engage in serious and intelligent conversation, I was available. He has yet to approach me again.

My advice to others is: Answer their questions based on their approach. If they are obviously trying to pick a fight, tell them it is a religious symbol very important to you just as their's are and that you aren't out to harm or embarrass anyone. That will usually disarm them and they will then either get serious, or start the name calling as some fanatics are prone to do. In that case, the best response is to ask them are they speaking from a position of personal investigation and study, or are they simply repeating the lies and falsehoods of hundreds of years of indictrination and propaganda?

As much bad press as we have received, the best defence is an intelligent offense. Be kind and thoughtful in your dealings with those who seek to rile you. When we as Wiccans resort to shouting and name calling, we are no better than those who seek to villify us. Don't allow yourselves to be drawn into a battle of wits with with un-armed persons. You will always appear to loose. Rather, reply with facts, truth, and wisdom. Don't get up-set and loose your temper; that's exactly the response they are looking for. Remain calm and answer their questions with thought and knowledge. NEVER make the mistake of telling them their beliefs are wrong, and your's are right. Remember, my path may not be right for you, and vice versa. It's all a matter of personal choice and free thought, not someone's "commands" to aviod going to Hell in the afterlife.

Choosing to be Wiccan requires courage and the willingness to stand up for your beliefs. Not fight about it; unless you are physically attacked; but defend your religion with conviction and knowledge. We don't seek out converts, we don't prosetylize ourselves in the name of our God(s), and we seek to harm no one. We aren't anti-Christian other than to correct the misinformation and lies that are being spread about us by their followers.

Feel free to e-mail me if you would like to correspond.
davidandmichele@yahoo.com

Merry meet! I'm Darkfox..I'm an eclectic solitary practitioning Wiccan and have been for quite some time now..About your question, I wear a pentacle everyday of my life. It is a silver pentacle with circle of a Tiger's Eye stone (with a hole in the center = Goddess) behind the pentacle..it's a VERY nice piece of jewelry..I feel as if I should be able to wear it, and not get discriminated; however, I have come to find that this isn't always the case. Curious as to who mainly criticizes me for being Wiccan? I bet you guessed it..Christians! Well, I'm not surprised, but personally, I thought they were supposed to respect thy neighbors, etc..and I hardly see that happening..In fact, they ask me if I'm satanic or if I plan to cast a spell on them (even gone as far as hexes and curses!!) *arghh the ignorance!!* I feel sad for the people that will only take the time to criticize, but won't take the time to -listen or learn-. Usually when I'm confronted about my pentacle or Tarot cards or my little satin bag (it holds tiny things like gems, ankhs, special thigns to me and Paganism), if they aren't being outright rude, I will explain what I am..now I said explain and not trying to convert them..that will only make things worse. If they are being outright rude, I will say something like, "We are not evil, please come back when you'd researched what I *really* am about--Paganism/Wicca." and usually that does the trick...the best thign to keep in mind is that you are gonna have troubles, especially in school. I get emails all the time from people telling me about discrimination, and just for anyone reading this, if you want, I'm a very open and understanding person..all you gotta do is email me and you will get a reply. :) I'd like to point out the fact that we are not satanists, and if anyone thinks differently, I have a ton of links and books to prove differently. If these people that discriminate actually took the time, they'd know the difference between a pentacle and an inverted pentagram (which is satanic)..there is a HUGE difference in the religion, plus in the way they look..these people don't even take the time or energy to look!!..and I think it's frustrating and foolish. In the end, we are all humans, and we all deserve SOME respect, no matter what we do. I don't believe in Satanism, and I'm not Christian, but I don't go down the hallways laughing at people wearing crosses or inverted pentagrams...and I hope everyone else tries to practice that (don't lower yourself to discriminators levels by fighting back or yelling). Also, if I was getting threatened or if someone was just going over *my* line(if you know what I mean), don't let that continue..there are lots of organizations that can help..and "To Each His Own."
Brightest Blessings! )0(
Darkfox

I was In the broom closet for years my mother was under the impression that witchcraft was evil and I was afraid for the longest time I was afraid to tell her. But finally after having a long talk with a witch who is like a mother too me I explained to my mother what I believe in and why and how much I love it she came around and began to understand that it was FAR from evil. I didn't own a pentagram then. But on my 17th birthday (last Sept) my mother took me shopping for a present. She brought me to a wonderful shop where saw the most beautiful silver pentagram with a rose quartz hanging from behind it. She bought it for me and I have worn it out ever since. I've been asked what it is and I tell people it is a symbol of my religion and of my life. I've been called a satan worshipper by some, even by people who I have told I do not believe in satan. I usually tell them must be very ignorant about Wicca and if they ever want to know the truth I'm there to help.

Blessed Be
Jessica

I have been a Pagan for nearly two years now, but I only just recently bought a pentagram necklace. Do I wear it openly? Damn skippy! My friend says that I like provoking a fearful reaction from Christians too much, and perhaps he's right, but how else are we gonna raise awareness?

My parents were quite supportive. My Mom is reading a book about Wicca herself and when I told my Dad he was surprised. When I explained Wicca to him he said "as long as you don't let your intellect become enslaved by a cult". The only bad reaction I ever faced was from my aunt and some Jehova's Witnesses. My aunt said that she was sorried about me. She truly believed that I was being lead astray by Satan. She told me that she prays in tongues and that if I saw what she saw I would come running back to the "true faith". I replied that I am not a stupid person, nor am I easily persuaded. The Witnesses also said that I was being led astray because the Bible said so: "Suffer not a witch to live". I informed the lady that the original text read "suffer not a poisoner to live", and that MY bible, and I hesitated to use that word, was written on every leaf, every cloud and in every laugh. It has been around for far longer.

Right now I am at a Catholic uiversity in Nova Scotia, Canada, but I have yet to receive any real bigotry. I let the guys in my dorm to get to know me first before I told them I'm a witch. I have yet to get any negative feedback. The guys throw a few jokes my way (are you flying home on your broom for Christmas?...oh wait, you don't celebrate Christmas) and sometimes call me Witch Hazel (an herb used to cure hemmoroids). But this is all in good fun and proves that not all Christians are Inquisitors.
stormravyn@hotmail.com

I have been Wiccan for about 5 years. I do not always wear my pentagram in public because it depends where I am at the time. I cannot wear it at work because I am a teacher and there are too many Christians out there and it could jeopardize my job. If someone askes about my beliefs I just say "I'm not Christian. When I do wear my pentagram, and am asked about it, I say, "It's a pentagram" If I am asked not to wear it, or not show it, I simply say "Then put away your cross. I am entitled to wear a symbol of my religion just as you are." If I do not wear my pentagram I wear a small Goddess necklace. It seems to cause less attention and adverse comments. Oddly enough, my daughter is a born again Christian. She disagrees with my beliefs and I disagree with hers, but we still love each other and respect each other's chosen path. My next step is to buy another pentagram on a longer chain so I can wear it under my clothes so that it won't bother anyone, and I can feel comfortable about wearing it all the time.
DesertKitn

On your Pentagram comments page I would like to complain about the public.

I'm in highschool, and I was wearing my pentagram around my neck. I was at lunch, and passing by a table of my friends to say hi, one person who I know but not exactly friends with made a comment about me. He said "Man you Satinist, I hope you burn in hell with the rest of you freaks".

First of all I am not satinist, second I'm not a freak, I don't dress strangely, I don't do out of the ordinary things. This just goes to show how nieive and STUPID the public is for thinking anykind of star or different religion is devil worshiping, someone should confront the public about this because it's not fair.

Anyway, I just thought you might want to put this on your Negitive Comments page. Thanks
LoveFool27@aol.com

Merry meet
Im a practioner in Scotland and have been for two years now ive been wearing my pentagram for the the last year and i have never had many remarks made about it this could be because i have many open minded friends or it could be because people just dont like to pick on me ( i am very easy going and have an annoying habit of making friends). Although i have had a few comments along the lines of "are you jewish" and the like. one very funny inccident occured one day in the summer when i was out with my friends who are a very mixed bunch (one roman catholic, one bisexual anarchist and a gay chiristian and i myself am a hetrosexual wiccan ) we were accosted by a group of catholic preachers who came up and asked us to folow jesus and the one true god we then told the woman with the megaphone about our various beliefs and asked her about her god we ended up having a discussion about our various beliefs and bit by bit dismanteling all her arguments against our religons and beliefs she eventualy gave up and although i could tell she was annoyed she no longer harrassed us and did seem to genuinely understand. And the moral of this story is it doesnt matter what faith what race or what sexual preferance you are everyone can get along as long as you have an open mind. As for comments about satanism we dont seem to get that very much up in Scotland as we all realize up here there are more important things in life than hating other religions. Its a real shame to here about the state of things in the US i used to believe it was a place of freedom but heres to all you fellow wiccans out there brave enough to folow your hearts and not your fears.

merry part
love life and happiness to all
298rp@tay.ac.uk

I am a teen wiccan. My pentagram hassn't come in yet, but everyday I wear a pouch with dried herbs in it to bring me luck. As with every teen Wiccan, it has been hard. I am not completely out of the "Broom Closet" yet, but I am working up the courage for it. I became a Wiccan about a year ago, but I almost didn't, due to the insistent gossip that witches are devil-worshippers. I grew up Christian, my mother is Christian, my father is Cathlic, and my brother is heavely Christian. I told my brother of my religion and he slapped me, saying that Jesus says it is not right. Ever since then, I find a Bible sitting on my bed, and a note that says "Follow the Right path." It troubled me, but I finally confronted him. He still gives me dirty looks when he sees my necklace, but doesn't say anything.

I still haven't told my mother, but I did tell her that I am not Christian anymore. In turn, she bought me a cross necklace. I don't wear it, but I am keeping just in case I have a child who chooses the path of Christianity.

No matter what this country says, there really is no religious freedom. Those who are brave enought to express their religion (NOT Christianity), is rudely returned. I am not going to back down from my religious beliefs, no matter what others say. I just hope other teenage Wiccans will learn to be careful. Ignorance is fear.
Catherine

i have had many different pendants in my life. the first was as a child...a simple goddess pendant. i did not yet know what it meant, but i wore it everyday (my mother gave it to me on my 5th birthday). then in highschool, in a very conservitive bible-banging town, i bought a pendant with a star and moon on it. the star was a pentacle, but no one noticed. in college i bought a handmade pentacle necklace that i have worn ever since. i have gotten all the same comments, "are you jewish"? and "i know that star means you are special and want to take care of me" from my 3rd and 4th grade students now. as a teacher i feel that it is important to wear my pendant every day just so that students know that it is just as ok to be pagan as it is to be any other religion.

thanks for your understanding
lou

I have worn a pentagram for over a year now, and I have gotten certainly mixed reactions. When I began wearing it, I got simply nasty looks from my teachers and other administrators at my school - (I go to a Catholic, private, all-girls school). My friends were not surprised, nor were they dismayed at my jewelry - they have certainly known me long enough to understand my rather, unique perceptions on religion. One day, as I was with a friend, he noticed that my pentagram was off, and commented that I didn't "look right" without it. He has known me the entire time of our relationship with this symbol, and says that it fits me.

Other people, while curious, are rarely outright mean about it. They prefer to make comments behind my back, (which I never miss) and then I proceed to embarass them by "overhearing" them and setting them straight. This provides much entertainment for my classmates, and a chance for an open forum for me.

Sincerely,
Lilith

I am very proud to wear my pentagram in public. I am fourteen, and my family and friends, and practically everyone else in my town knows i practice wicca. I have a white gold ring with a pentagram ingraved into a ruby, i have a silver pentagram ring, and i also have a silver pentagram ear cuff, i also have pentagrams all over my backpack and room. no one really minds, and none of my friends(even the big christian, anti-any other religion ones) have every asked me to remove them. they know what i am and they completely accept, besides, if any of them did ask me to remove i wouldn't.
killinglflys@yahoo.com

I would never remove my pentegram to me its like a christian wearing a cross...i would never ask them to remove theirs why should I.....all my co-workers know my chosen path and show a great interest and respect for it....I am very proud and happy about being wiccan....
tinkerbell01@webtv.net