Apart Does Not Equal Alone; Alone Does Not Equal Lonely

Guest Presentation for Solitary Wicca 101

With a few notable and treasured exceptions, I observe the traditions of my systems (I am quite the eclectic) in solitude. I walk my path for the most part without company. Yet I have a large circle of Pagan friends and acquaintances whose presence in my life keeps me from feeling lonely. Those who live nearby follow somewhat different paths; those with whom I might work well on a regular basis live at a distance. So, I find other ways to keep in touch with the Pagan community.

First, I read several Pagan periodicals on a regular basis and others occasionally. I also write for a number of these. My favorites include SageWoman, The Beltane Papers, Circle Network News, and PagaNet News. Many Solitaries contribute writing and artwork to these and other markets as a way of reaching out. By reading Pagan periodicals you can learn about many different traditions and customs, current issues, and news items.

Second, an extension of Pagan media has moved online. This study group is an excellent example. Here you can meet and converse with people who share some of your beliefs and interests; you can explore new concepts together. Many other online Pagan resources await you, including mailing lists, Websites, newsgroups, and more. The Internet and the World Wide Web have opened up a whole new level of communication. More resources are available in Virtual Paganism, on this Website.

Finally, a variety of Pagan organizations exist to serve community needs; most of these welcome Solitaries. Some are recognized churches, like the Church of All Worlds. Others meet business needs, like the Wiccan/Pagan Press Alliance. Several, like the Lady Liberty League, fight for our rights and freedoms. By joining one or more organizations suited to your needs and interests, you can take an active part in the community and make connections between yourself and other Pagans.

Just because you follow a Solitary path, by chance or choice, does not mean that you must or should feel cut off from the larger community. On the contrary, your position gives you a unique perspective which can prove quite valuable. Learn how to take advantage of the experiences you move through as a Solitary, because they will teach you a somewhat different set of skills than those acquired through group practice. Both bring strength to the community. Find the connections that work for you as you explore your path.

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Art on this page is from the "Whiteflower" set, at Winter's Pages

The URL for this page is http://www.worthlink.net/~ysabet/spirit/solitary.html and it was last updated on October 13, 1998.