Wiccan Teens and Their Confussed Parents

In recent years, more teens have been choosing to follow a Pagan religion. They are dressing in all black, getting tattoos and piercings. They spend all of their time locked in their rooms, not sociallizing with thier families. When their parents try to forcefully change them, they rebel even further. These parents are then confussed and have no idea how to reconnect with their child. Are these teens choosing these religions for personal beliefs or are they just rebelling.

I personally, was not raised with any specific religous education. My father is Lutheran and was very active with his faith as a child. My mother only went to church on special occassions,but did not follow a specific religion. They taught me, I did not have to go to church to be a good person. What they did encourage was good morals, values and a positive family atmosphere. Sunday's were spent together working on projects or just watching a good movie. It was a day for family and rest. When I became an adult, I began to study all religions. I even read the Bible. The Wiccan traditon made sense to me and explained my views of life. I am very spiritual now and teach my children my beliefs. They also have grandparents who are Lutheran, Catholic and Scientific, who also explain their beliefs to them. I encourage them to learn as much and as many religious beliefs as they want. With their broad knowledge I feel they will find a religion that fits with how they view life.

As a mother and a Priestss of the Wiccan Way, I would suggest that these parents try to inform themselves of their teens newly found religion. Wicca, which is also known as Witchcraft or the Craft of the Wise, is a very old religion and is based on love for the Earth and all living things. Although there has been some individuals who use their energies to harm others, it is not in the Wiccan beliefs to bring harm to anyone or anything. To the uninformed it is dark and mysterious, but in fact has nothing to do with devil worship or satanic rituals. The Wiccan Rede simply states, "An ye harm none, do as ye will," in other words, do what ever you want, just do not harm anyone. Another principle of consequence is the Threefold Law, much like Karma, it points out the inevitable return of expended energy. And then the age old golden rule "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you".

Once you have found out all that you can, you should sit down with your teen and discuss your knowledge with them. It may be that they were not as informed and learn something from you. You could help them find books on their religion and others as well, so that they can broaden their knowledge and choose the religion that best compliments their views. Treating your teen as a young adult and allowing them to explore their differences will give them more respect for you. Which will help reopen the communication between you and your teen. Hopefully then you can understand your teen and help them get through this confussing period of life.