Wicca is Safe - Witchcraft is Iffy...

What on earth would prompt me to make the statement "Wicca is Safe - Witchcraft is Iffy..." Pull up a chair and sit a spell. (Yes, I know how corny that sounds but I still like to say it.) It is my sincere belief that Wicca IS safe. I would tell any parent that their child's investigation, interest and practice of Wicca is safe IF they are truly practicing Wicca as a religion. However, when youngsters dive into witchcraft aka spellcraft, that is where things can turn the corner.

If your child is interested in the religion of Wicca, it is a very peaceful, love filled, nature based religion. It believes in what could be explained as a spirit mother and father or Goddess and God often referenced as the Lady and Lord. There are 8 Sabbats or holidays that are celebrated called the Wheel of the Year some of which can be compared to traditional holidays. Examples would be Ostara and Easter, Samhain and Halloween, Yule and Christmas, Mabon and Thanksgiving. The Wheel of the Year follows the seasons and celebrates the changes each season brings. Phases of the moon are also celebrated with the most notable being the Full Moon. In short, with all the pitfalls of being a teen such as drug  and alcohol use, sex, sexuality, bullying, etc., if the worst thing you have to worry about in your child's life is their interest in Wicca, please count your blessings.

If your child is adding witchcraft onto their Wiccan practice, it isn't necessarily time to panic but do pay close attention. You know your child better than anyone else -- at least we as parents like to believe that we do. What sort of personality does your child have? Overly curious? Dare devil? Spontaneous? Cautious? Loving? Helps others? Selfish? Spiteful? Vengeful? Whatever traits your child has will carry into their practice of witchcraft. That's where you need to keep watch.

Witchcraft covers a wide range of magick from what could be referenced as white do-good magick to black vindictive magick and on into dealing with trying to summon and master entities. This latter should never be attempted by anyone other than a very accomplished and seasoned Witch, and sometimes not even then. Of course, the danger makes it all the more appealing to some youngsters, not to mention the need to witness something *real*.

It is my opinion that witchcraft/spellcraft requires maturity. As young people approach adulthood and even into early adulthood, they navigate a mine field of emotionalism. Things in their lives can make their mood go from 0 to 60 in as many seconds. Happy to sad to angry and back to happy all in the same hour - maybe less. So, when you have individuals with emotions that are mercurial it can be a not so wonderful combination when mixed with witchcraft. Likewise, young people are often quick to take action without thought as to long term repercussions or even short term repercussions (actually there are many adults like this also). And sadly, there are many that are prone to being bullies and/or vindictive. All these traits make for an explosive combination when mixed with witchcraft. When it comes right down to it, all these things make life tricky period, whether witchcraft is involved or not. So, first step -- know your child -- *really* know your child. Sadly, this isn't always as easy as we parents like to think. Our children do go secretive on us when they reach a certain age. What is hidden in those secrets can make all the difference.

Just remember, the worse thing you can do with your child is jerk knee react to their interest in Wicca. Educate yourself as to the details of Wicca.  Inquire whether your child is practicing witchcraft/ spellcraft and how they utilize it.  Talk openly with your child about any concerns you have. Most importantly, be open minded. Hear them out and treat the situation with respect. Do be firm about boundaries with things like burning incense (which may not be enjoyed by the whole household) or open flame candles, and other things that might be considered dangerous. Boundaries can be things like, incense only in your room, no open flame candles unless parents are home, and of course some of this will depend on how old your child is. Communication is always key in all situations with your child, so this issue of Wicca and witchcraft is no different.

Bright Blessings and Blessed Be,
Rayven Michaels