Is it now safe to jump into this thread and ask questions?
I was not self initiated even though I am a solitary. I was initiated in a very long, inticate ritual that included a guided meditation where my initiation actually took place. I went seeking initiation by The Goddess and was granted such. Some may not like this but I really do not give a darn. I call myself Wiccan.
Arn, is the experience you describe a Divine Initiation? Do you consider yourself a Priestess?
Why do discussions about solitary practice seem more concerned with labels and words rather than on intent, experience, and one’s relationship with the Divine? Is following a solitary path about living, growing, changing, developing? Does solitary practice change a person spiritually?
Kiara, its always safe to jump into any thread. Don't ever let anyone intimidate you into not posting or not asking questions. We will always answer your questions if we can. For those who intimidate and get pissy, we have a special disappearing spell.
I suppose you could call it a Divine Initiation. I have always just called it my initiaition. Yes, I do consider myself a priestess. I also consider anyone who has dedicated themselves to The Goddess and The God as a priest or priestess. I do not make any claims as to degrees though. Just years.
It is usually those who do not agree with the Solitary way that need the labels and words. The Solitary path is not an easy one. It takes the strength inside yourself to stay commited to learning and seeking. There is no group to help push you along. Many things you learn by trial and error. These days many groups have open circles and are willing to share a certain amount of their knowledge. Still, the "secrets" you have to seek out on your own through meditation and practice. There is always more to learn and just when you think you "got it" another path for you to follow appears. You described a Solitary practice quite well. Living, growing, changing, developing. Also, for me, my relationship with The Goddess feels more one on one.
Solitary practice changed my spiritual life a lot. I found a peace I had never had before. The energy levels in a group fluctuate considerably. As a solitary I do not have the distraction of others energy and can focus better. Even though I am an outgoing person when I am around people, I do not like being in large groups and tend to be quite solitary in my daily life.
