Why use Solitary-Pagan.net?

That's a great question.  The internet is flooded with beginning Pagan and Wicca websites, so how is this one different? 

• The goal of the site is unique.  Rather than telling the reader "this is how it is," this site guides you through your own search for spiritual truth and meaning.  This site is designed to be a catalyst in your spiritual exploration and development.

• The tone is not commercial.  Solitary-Pagan.net is not a store, recruitment center, or in any way a money-making enterprise.

• The content can guide your personal studies as a Solitary.  The pages here are divided into modules that you can work through at your own pace and in the order you prefer. Using this curriculum provides a way to survey your Pagan books and other websites in an organized way.

As a solitary Pagan I rely on primarily festivals, weekend classes, books, internet sites, and e-groups for my training.  It seems that many introductory Pagan resources cover the same topics over and over, while other important topics are left out.  My hope is that this site will guide you through a balanced, well-rounded curriculum.  

Learning Styles & Busy Schedules

If you are the type of personality to find a curriculum and follow it through, start to finish, then this site will provide a good core for you.  You can simply pick a place to start and methodically work through the curriculum.

My learning style is not so methodical and predictable.  I seldom read a book from start to finish.  I tend to follow topics rather than the chapter outline.  For example, if I'm reading a chapter on ritual design, I might want to compare it to another chapter in another book, and then to an internet site, and so on and so on.  This site is organized around topics so that your interests can lead you through the curriculum in any order that suits you.  The Site Map can save you some time by getting you to the topics you are most interested in.

Read with a Critical Eye

Be assertive in your studies: compare sources, argue with them, test their hypotheses, challenge their assumptions, and study until you are satisfied with your understanding of a topic.  As with all resources, you'll find that some authors have done their homework and others haven't.  Find out what the authors' training and background are.  Do you get a sense that the author has an agenda or bias?  A critical approach to your studies will serve you well.

Read Everything

Like most people, I enjoy reading works that support my opinions.  I have found, though, that reading points of view that I disagree with can be very enlightening and motivating.  I find myself arguing with those authors which helps me articulate and clarify my thoughts.  I also find myself understanding their position (even when I disagree with it) which helps me frame the words I would use to discuss issues in a personal conversation.  And, sometimes, once I understand the other point of view, I change my opinion on the matter.

Keep a Notebook

No matter how you record what you are learning (in ink or electronically) I strongly encourage you to keep notes on your studies.  It is important to have notes as you compare sources.  It is also useful to keep a record your thoughts, opinions, and questions as you study.  All of this information may find its way into your Book of Shadows at some point.