Make the Decision

• 1). Make the decision for yourself to be a Pagan. This is your choice and no one should force you to accept  Pagan beliefs. A healthy religion, of any faith, is not about coercion through negative consequences for the unbeliever. True Pagans would not bully people into accepting their spiritual ideas. Get out of the group or relationship and find someone safe to talk with if the person or organization uses guilt and fear to try to control you. Furthermore, do not accept so-called Pagans who attempt to act toward you as if you are inferior. Pagans, from all social and economic levels, are equal as being part of Nature. The importance of  individuals within the Pagan community is based on merit. 
   
  
  
• 2). Read about the various types of Paganism. The diverse groups that make up the belief system  have respect for the Earth as their core doctrine. Pagans may be simply those who identify with an Eco-spirituality, or be Wiccan or other forms of Paganism such as the Fairie tradition.  
  
  
• 3). Go online to research the belief system and the types of Paganism. You can find chat rooms, social networking sites and other websites. Be careful not to give out personal information in forums or other sites. You can make yourself anonymous by using a web name. Many individuals in Paganism often have popular magical names. Make sure that you are talking to the correct Rhiannon or Moondancer when you are online.
  
  
• 4). Attend public events that celebrate Paganism like a Beltane (May Day) festival. Those in Pagan religions are permitted to show their beliefs but not recruit. Events like Pagan Pride Day are useful for you to gather more information about the beliefs. You should attend private gatherings when you are comfortable and safe with the people involved in the group.
  
  
• 5). Talk to people who are already Pagans. They will have insight as to whether or not Paganism is a spiritual fit for you. Again, those who engage in Earth-based religions should not use coercion or recruitment but simply be sources of information. Consider the benefits and demerits of being a Pagan. One benefit of being Pagan would be your connection to the Earth through responsibility for the environment around you. A negative aspect of being a Pagan is that you may face prejudice and discrimination. Take into account these two considerations when making your decision.