Nearing the end of this exercise! The end is nigh! Chapter 22 is all about teaching others about Wicca. Specifically it addresses providing instruction for a student. I must say, this makes me a little uncomfortable.
First of all, I believe spirituality to be a highly personal journey. With Wicca, there are a lot of different avenues out there and I chose solitary because I like it that way. If I had wanted a coven experience, I would have sought that, but I didn't. Instead I started researching. As I did more digging I uncovered a wealth of information, some rubbish, but still a wealth of knowledge that allowed me to reflect on my own beliefs. My reading and investigating and reflecting brought me to this point in my life. I have a deeper understanding of my worldview and my connectedness to all others because of this journey. I honestly don't think I have any business telling another person how they should practice their faith. I have in the past directed people who asked about it to some good books on the topic--ones I found personally beneficial--but I have no desire to provide direct instruction on Wicca to the masses.
I do possess adequate knowledge and reference materials to offer assistance to someone who is confused or has questions. I do have the skills and patience to teach someone. I wouldn't be teaching for my own glorification. However, I don't really want to teach. I feel I have far more to learn before I ever take on a student etc. I have toyed with the notion of setting up a commune of sorts based on paganism. This is a long range retirement type goal. When I look at teaching in that perspective, I believe I need to be even more knowledgeable and resourceful. I also would like to see it more as a discussion of ideas...rather Socratic ya know? Read, learn, ask questions and discuss the issue thoroughly before arriving at your personal truth and understanding. Transcendentalists would be proud. I just don't think that my way is the right way for all and if someone really wants an in-depth relationship with the Goddess and the God, they need to be willing to find their own way, too.
What a wonderful idea!! Where do I send the donation for the commune?
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Are You Serious, Cool Beans
I've been mulling it over for a while now. I really would like something akin to what they are doing up at Arlee with the Buddhist temple.