why do people make a big deal about being a Witch / Pagan?
By Galena
@Galena (9110)
April 8, 2007 2:07pm CST
we all know the sorts.
they make such a big thing about it, rather than just getting on with life and living it.
oh no, they're determined that everyone HAS to know about it, and if they object to it, or respond negatively, then they absolutely thrive on playing the persecution card.
I've seen a few threads around, (and don't worry, I don't think it's anyone I get on with here ;) ) where the thread has nothing to do with it, but in the very first line they'll mention they're a Witch, and follow it up with some kind of sentence about being persecuted for it.
it just seems a bit pathetic to me.
attention seeking.
mentioning it in the hope that someone will take issue, and then they can come out with the "more persecuted than thou" rubbish.
what's wrong with just being what you are and getting on with life. I'll mention it when it's relevant, but while it is part of my life every single day, influences me in very many ways, I don't ram it down anyones throat.
anyway, people just know. quite funny really, all these people who stop just short of tattooing "Witch" on their forheads, and I can be sat there in normal clothes, even slightly scruffy ones, no make up, no visible jewellery, and people just know without me having to tell them, let alone rub their faces in it.
but yeah, the way some people have to make an issue of it, rather than making it part of their lives.
how childish.
11 people like this
22 responses
@Ravenladyj (22902)
• United States
8 Apr 07
"but in the very first line they'll mention they're a Witch, and follow it up with some kind of sentence about being persecuted for it"
OH hell I'm gonna get blasted for this I'm sure but I'm never one to bite my damn tongue cause..that hurts LOL....ppl like that remind me of African Americans who like to pull the "ancestor" card..which just annoys me to NO END! it was 300 freakin yrs ago....it ALWAYS makes me think "THEY'RE OVER IT WHY ARENT YOU? hell you werent even alive then or anytime shortly after for that matter so give it a blood rest already!" I'm serious.....I mean really...and when it comes to Witches (I find its usually Wiccans though) that pull the "back during the Witch Trials" I think to myself..."oh and you have record of YOUR ancestors getting burned at the stake do you?" oh spare me! seriously....
Okay...I'm done...it was a short rant but I just had a 90 min rant session with my husband (LOL he's so patient with me)
5 people like this
@emeraldisle (13139)
• United States
9 Apr 07
Ravenladyj I agree with you on that with the ancestor card. I have seen similiar with the pagans/witchs, with any releigion really, with blacks, with Native Americans, and so forth. You always have some who feel the need to pull out that persectution card, if it didn't happen to them directly then it happened to someone either they know or are related to, even if the releation was 200 years ago.
milesalpha slavery ended with the civil war. Bigotry and hatred didn't but slavery itself did. Yes there was persecution after the civil war but others were also persecuted and discriminated against, blacks were not the only ones during the last hundred and some years. Unless it's happening right now I think it's time to let it go.
3 people like this
@Galena (9110)
•
9 Apr 07
oooh yes.
and then the "oh when they BURNED us...."
when was that then?
because the punishment for Witchcraft was Hanging, not burning. burning was for heretics.
and it was ordinary members of the community who would probably be mortified to be paraded as some kind of Pagan martyr, when they were probably as Christian as the people who killed them.
1 person likes this
@Ravenladyj (22902)
• United States
9 Apr 07
"If you are, you really need to pick up a good history book on the subject"
I need to do no such thing....I am a black woman, I am aware of all that has gone on and in fact the after affects/chain reaction directly affected my life but you dont see me p!ssing and moaning about it and trying to get restitution...thats a big fat load of crap IMO...its done with bury it and leave it the hell alone or we'll NEVER make TRUE progress...
2 people like this
@brokentia (10389)
• United States
9 Apr 07
Bravo! I could not agree with you more!!!!
I have seen some discussions here that have completely embarrassed me on one side and really just down right irritated me on the other!
Why does some people feel that they must work this into a discussion or response as much as possible? And to me, those people are normally the people that are not completely informed. Wannabes.
If you are Wiccan or Pagan, Great! That is just the religion aspect of life.
Now move on to other areas of life!
Great message Galena...I hope those that have this issue understands your point. :)
3 people like this
@recycledgoth (9894)
•
8 Apr 07
My circle of friends have an expression which covers this type of individual hun, they are known to us as "Charmed watchers" - lol.
@prestocaro (1251)
• United States
8 Apr 07
I've discovered that there are people like that in every faith. I've got some very aggressive, evangelical acquaintences that love to tell stories about the persecution they've experienced. Which is kind of weird because here in TX it's bible country! I think it's just an aspect of one's personality. I find it rather obnoxious (and it sounds like you do, too). I don't find it necessary to tell everyone I meet my personal philosophies, but if it comes up in discussion, I don't shy away from it. I also don't try to convince people why my point of view is better than theirs. Granted, I BELIEVE it is :) but it's useless to try to make someone see. People have to find their own way, they can't just follow my cues.
That being said, I do love to discuss current events and moral quandries with people who have varied faiths and philosophies. I like a good debate, and my friends do too, no matter what their beliefs.
3 people like this
@raydene (9871)
• United States
9 Apr 07
The same people that need constant attention make a big deal about any issue to bring the light on them..It could be smoking,abortion,religion,race,etc...It is not the issue ...it is the person's personality that is the real issue...Be and let be...So you are a witch...so........so you smoke..so........so you believe this rather then that...so.....They won't get a rise out of me so I'm not much fun to do the 'in yer face' thing to..
Galena,I certainly know what you mean.
Good discussion,Hon
@Rachelg (221)
• United States
8 Apr 07
I agree with you. I think that it is the rebeling feature it gives them. some people have low self esteem, and calling themselves a witch and throwing it about , makes them feel important. In my eyes, If you are a true witch, you live and breathe it. It becomes a part of your everyday life, and it is not who you are, but a part of who you are. Being a witch , Gives me an inner glow that shines on the outside, without me even having to try to show it. It makes me a stronger person, and I can speak my mind about all different issues as a person, not standing on a soapbox as a witch. A note to those people who are always propagandinizing it. 85 percent of people know who witches truly are, and that we are good people, you don't have to keep going on about it. Thank you Galena for this discussion!
3 people like this
@nancygibson (3736)
• France
9 Apr 07
I had this situation 'in the flesh' this weekend. This girl walked up to me and intriduced herself then said 'but you can call me 'Witch' and I was thinking, 'no, sorry, thats an honorific you might earn once i have known you for maybe 10 years and know that I really respect you, I'm certainly not going to go round calling someone I just met that'. Sadly, she was deeply annoying and full of how wonderful she was, I don't think she impressed anyone this weekend.
2 people like this
@Galena (9110)
•
9 Apr 07
*wets self*
what is it with some people?
they seem to really think it will impress or scare people, one or the other, and they relish the idea of both.
but on the whole, they're the one's who have barely even dipped their toes in the shallow end.
and you're right. a Witch is someone with skill in the area of Witchcraft. not just someone who beleives in it.
1 person likes this
@emeraldisle (13139)
• United States
9 Apr 07
I agree that there is no need to announce your religion in a discussion unless it's one about religion, faith or beliefs. If it's just a general discussion why bring up what your religion is? There is no need for it and some people need to realize that. I'm not just talking about the pagan/wiccan ones either but all. I've seen other religions pull it as well, for example "I'm a christian and if you'd just give yourself over to christ then......" The discussion could be about spousal abuse and they will still work it in. It's irritating and out of place in my opinion. Save those things for the discussions about ones faith or about being discriminated against, etc. If we did that it would save a lot of irritation for everyone.
2 people like this
@vanities (11395)
• Davao, Philippines
9 Apr 07
some people maybe proud of what they are..and if have received some bad comments here as you have mentioned above ranted just to make some issue out of it? actually i havent read those kind of discussions yet but i think its not true nobodys going to accept if your such kind of person pagan maybe but a witch i dont think so..theyre afraid to be persecuted and hunted lol..just like in movies weve seen..
@Jennifer21 (2476)
• United States
9 Apr 07
Well, I too have seen certain topics in mylot that seem to just be to start a debate. I admit I have asked certain questions such as "what is your religion?" and stated that I was a witch. But it was just curiousness to hear of others religions. I have never set out to throw my religion in someone elses face though. I am proud of my religion so I may want to speak about it, but not when it is unnessasary. It is sort of like when Christians celebrate Christmas and Easter. It is unintentionally thrown in our faces. Almost like it is exspected to be celebrated.
2 people like this
@5000ml (1923)
• Belgium
10 Apr 07
It's a human thing. Some people feel so lost that they'll happily add any label they can come across to themselves and then loudly proclaim what they are. The same goes for these so called Witches and Pagans. It still seems trendy to call yourself a Pagan even if you actually aren't (in mind and heart), it's all just an act.
In my offline life I'm pretty quiet about the fact that I'm a Pagan, anyone can guess if they look at me, talk to me and look at my bookcases in my home, but you won't hear me say much unless you come out and directly ask me. Online I'm a little more open, but I've received badly written emails from angry Christians claiming I'm going to burn in hell, so these days I tend to keep quiet about it. It's just my business. If someone decides to attack me about my believes I just let them know that I respect their religion and that I expect them to do the same for me. I have never felt persecuted because I don't let myself be persecuted.
2 people like this
@pyewacket (43903)
• United States
9 Apr 07
Well, I'm a witch..and no I don't exactly broadcast it on the top of the roof or go out of my way to "look" liek a witch--whatever that means..although some do go out of their way with jewelry and such..I would't blazingly admit to being a witch say if I knew the person was say a Born Again Christian...if I did I just know they would want to save my soul..ah..my soul is fine thank you very much...LOL--If people DO announce they are a witch and say they are persecuted then it's their own fault and just want to attract attention or go for shock value. Yes my beliefs are, like yours an everyday thing with me...which is more than many devote Christians can admit to...the type that go to church and claim to love thy neighbors one day of the week, Sunday, then be rotten nasty persons the rest of the week. That's probably one of the reason I was never a church going lover when I was younger. I just couldn't stand the hypocracy
Like I stand, I think that people who make a big thing about being a witch/pagan do so just to get the attention--well they get it, just the wrong kind, and wonder then why they are persecuted. like duh?
2 people like this
@assoox (42)
• Malaysia
9 Apr 07
I prefer religion to be a private matter and not to be imposed on others in any way except when there is a need to tell others that they're request are absolutely against one's religious beliefs.
Proclaiming to be persecuted while not is like being a baby throwing a tantrum trying to get everyone's attention. As if saying 'Hey, im cool, check me out' but religion is not to be meant that way.
If i were in your situation, i will just go away, i don't like talk religion/beliefs with people who are baiting for a debate. There is no point. I know how it is because i have been in that situation before.
2 people like this
@minki_malink (83)
• New Zealand
9 Apr 07
I kinda know what you mean, those people come in all sorts of types, not just witches or pagans. Its always the people who are least comfortable in their skins. I know, because I feel like that a lot of the time. Like I have to explain to people what I am, because they won't get me otherwise. I'm not pagan or anything but I suspect its the people with low self esteem who feel the need to explain who they are because sometimes it doesn't feel obvious who you are.
@avonrep1 (1862)
• United States
9 Apr 07
Galena, you are preaching as they say to the choir. I too, have been facing this sort of persecution because of my beliefs. I don't force it down peoples throats, but if asked I am proud of my beliefs.
I think we are a long way from people just accepting the difference that there is in everything. It is a sad world we live in, when you are still persecuted for your beliefs.
Just be who you are people, and don't worry about the small stuff, and people being ignorant. Blessed Be.
@avonrep1 (1862)
• United States
10 Apr 07
I agree with you 100% on this. It is like some people has to have everyone around them know what their beliefs are and that you are just totally evil because of your belief.
I normally don't have to much persecution from it, because I don't need to explain my belief, they are mine. Just like I don't need anyone explaining theirs to me.
It is one thing if I ask a question about their religion and their beliefs for them to share or if we are having an intelligent conversation about religion. Its another thing to tell me because I am a Pagan that I am evil.
My father has recently required a new religion, or deeper faith, I don't know what you would call it. I always respect his beliefs and have asked him to respect mine. At times though he starts telling me that I am evil and doomed to go to hell. (Yes, I think he is a little nuts)
1 person likes this
@Ravenladyj (22902)
• United States
10 Apr 07
"well that's just it.
I've experienced very little persecution"
same here....In fact I have gotten very little if any flack (in the real world) for anything or part of me whether its my spirituality, my sexuality, my career, my being mixed race (though if there is one thats gotten me MORE flack than the others its my being mixed race and the fact that i date white men LOL what a trip that is)
ppl really DONT care for the most part and its the ones that do what you mentioned originally that cause the troubles they get IMO....if they would just go about life normally wihtout pulling the megaphone out of their bottoms and broadcasting every time they open their flipping mouths I'm quite sure ppl would behave much differently to them...but as I see it, they HAVE TO bring it up...CONSTANTLY which bottomline is flipping annoying! of course ppl are goin to react negatively....
2 people like this
@Galena (9110)
•
9 Apr 07
well that's just it.
I've experienced very little persecution.
on the whole, people don't care.
I'm Pagan and a Witch, and I'd hardly ever bring it up in conversation, because my beleifs are my business, unless that's what we're discussing.
I don't need to tell people, or to parade it or display it.
I'm not ashamed or hiding it, but I really don't have to make sure everyone knows about it.
some people, it's SO important to them that everyone HAS to know that about them.
it seems rather childish and attention seeking.
1 person likes this
@Willowlady (10658)
• United States
8 Apr 07
Being different is usually the cause of strife, some are so used to strife that they try to recreate it in their lives when it is lacking. Some are proud and are ' militant' about it and we certainly do hear about it. I for one just shake my head and wish them well. Life if tough enough to try and make it more difficult that it already is.
2 people like this
@rosie_123 (6113)
•
9 Apr 07
Well I am not a witch or a wiccan, and I must say I've not particularly noticed this aspect here on MyLot. However, I am ot religious either, and what I have noticed a lot is the way many Christians here seem to being God into every discussion they respnd to, whether it is relevant or not. So perhaps it is just a case that if people feel strongly about something, they want others to understand their feelings, and, perhaps, have some kind of evangelical zeal to "convert" them to their own way of thinking. Personally, I agree that people should just be what they are and get on with it, but I guess if you are obsessed with one particular aspect (whether being a Witch or a Christian or whatever), that takes over part of your personality to such an extent that you can no longer be objective, and you have to throw t into every conversation.
1 person likes this
@highflyingxangel (9225)
• United States
28 May 07
Well people like being special, and they think, just like all of the other attention getting people that they are special and deserve special treatment. Then they complain when people don't take them seriously. If they'd act like grown ups and not go around flaunting themselves I don't think things would be so horrible for these people that claim discrimination.
1 person likes this
@astromama (1221)
• United States
13 Apr 07
I don't know why some people behave that way. I couldn't be more opposite. I prefer to keep my beliefs to myself unless it's relevant to a discussion. Especially in my real life. Why knowingly make an issue out of something that will just cause a disruption when you could simply save the topic for when you are speaking with other like minded people? I enjoy a good debate now and again, but not about what my truths are... my path should never be under attack, nor would I invite that into my life. Besides, everyone is persecuted... we are all one, exalted, persecuted, whatever. I would think a lot of pagans would realize that... i for one am sick and tired of defending my beliefs and wasting my energy, so I simply don't do it anymore and am happier for that!
1 person likes this
@missladycc (154)
• United States
9 Apr 07
ok, so you are a real witch. So what makes you a witch? Just curious.
