Witchcraft...Why?

So, as a child, I grew up Catholic in Salem, MA. I went to what we would lovingly call "Jesus Camp", helped to run Vacation Bible School, was the first female Altar Server in my church, and went on MANY Mission Trips all starting in elementary school straight through to college.

Throughout my childhood, my mother used to ask why I hated church so much.

"How can you have a relationship with God without participating on Sundays?"

My answer was always the same.

"I don't need to be in church to believe in a higher power."

She seemed to accept that for a while and then require me to answer the question the same way a few months later.

Around and around we go...

When will she stop, no one knows...

When I was in college in Boston, MA. I had an epiphany! I don't believe in organized religion! After this shocking realization, I looked into myself and discovered that I am much more of a Spiritual Person. I don't believe in gods or goddesses at all. I trust in nature. What nature brings it can and WILL take it away.

During college, I started dating a man. At first he was supportive and sweet. I began practicing witchcraft in secret. Mainly because, deep down, I knew he wasn't as supportive as he initially lead me to believe. Eventually he found out and degraded and embarrassed me for believing in childish ideals. I stopped practicing and in the process lost all of my beliefs.

Over time, his abuse became much worse. Between the emotional and physical abuse, I, finally, after more than two years, packed a bag and left. Those who have been in an abusive relationship understand how broken you feel after you finally leave. It's difficult to trust yourself and know you made the right choice. They make you feel like everything is your fault when, in fact, they are abusive assholes.

Freedom!

After some time processing, it was time to take my life back. I was DONE watching everyone else move forward while I was stuck standing still! So, I went to the beach in early spring and put my feet in the ocean. A wave came, knocked me off my feet and, I have to say, that was the best feeling I have ever felt! The universe punished me for letting myself go in such a gentle way. A small reminder of who I am and that I should be celebrated every day.

A reminder to live, alive! Be proactive! Support yourself! Be kind! Never judge! Always LOVE!

So this is why I am a practicing witch. It makes me happy and I don't need a damn religion or a man to tell me how to be happy. The universe will guide me.