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Celtic Radio Community > The Grove > So, Have You Come Out Of The Broom Closet?


Posted by: RavenWing 14-Jul-2003, 11:23 AM
I was wondering this the other day. I haven't exactly come out of the broom closet yet. Some peope know, like some close friends and my sister, and my mom has an idea. On the other hand, my brother is a Presbyterian mimister, and I haven't been able to tell him yet. I should have nothing to fear, but I just don't want to deal with some of the possible repercussions.

If you have, how did it go? What made you decide to go through with it?

Maybe your experience will help others. (mainly me biggrin.gif)

Posted by: RavenWing 25-Jul-2003, 08:43 AM
Hmmmm, I guess nobody has unsure.gif

Posted by: barddas 25-Jul-2003, 02:40 PM
100%? No. My mom and dad don't know exactly, but they have a clue.
Everyone else.. Freinds and the like. Yes.

Posted by: RavenWing 25-Jul-2003, 02:50 PM
I think family is the hardest. (see above)

Posted by: Shadows 25-Jul-2003, 03:05 PM
My religious affiliation has always been eclectic to those who know me, my family (includung my wife) knows what I believe but does not know how I believe! I am percieved as a christian, a heathen, and just plain weird by most !!!
It is my and my dieties business only how I profess my beliefs! To come out of the closet does not matter to me... my god(s) know and that is all that should matter!

Posted by: RavenWing 25-Jul-2003, 03:19 PM
You make a great point. My problem is there are so many religious discussions where I have to keep my mouth shut because I will say something "bad". Most of that is my own fear, but there is still a lot of intolerance in my family.

Posted by: Shadows 25-Jul-2003, 03:36 PM
Intolerance is just ignorance disguised as prejudice! What a person believes is between them and their god and only that! Those that ridicule or persecute (SPEL) are just showing their lack of faith in their own beliefs and convictions! I have lived a full 50+ years with the intolerance of others to my beliefs, even when I was being schooled in the catholic faith I had my doubts and made them public...Gee guess what... I was a weirdo! If your convictions are sound and you do not faulter in your beliefs then you can be sure you are doing what is right between you and your god!

Posted by: RavenWing 25-Jul-2003, 03:51 PM
This is why I love this place. Y'all are so supportive smile.gif

Posted by: Dinah 14-Sep-2003, 05:49 PM
I've never been really in the broom closet, but that doesn't mean everyone knows what by beliefs are. On the one hand I've been interested in Paganism ever since I was 12 when here in Germany only a few people what that even meant. On the other hand I am living in rural Bavaria, where the Catholics rule, and I've always had religious education in school. Actually I even took my A-levels in that subject.

There were times when we had a discussion about certain philosophies and believes in class and to make my point I'd bring in a book on paganism that made my point clear and show that to my teacher. I just didn't think about how that might look or mean or anything. My mom is very open when it comes to religion, and I've had many discussions and actually have been surprised how easy she deals with the topic. I moved into my own place last year and told her I was still looking for a spot to set up my altar and she made suggestions and helped me look for the blanket I always use as a decoration.

Now, my grandma's and my father? No. It's just that they wouldn't understand it, they couldn't grasp the concept of it, so I don't try to explain, I just avoid the topic. Though they have helped me get out of the phase where you take everything a bit too seriously (which happens if you try to make your traditions by reading books, lots of which take themselves too seriosuly and are heavy on the ritual).

Once your dad gets used to watch football in your room and put his mug of beer on your bookshelf/altar you learn to forget overzealous formality tongue.gif

Dinah note.gif

Posted by: RavenWing 22-Sep-2003, 11:15 AM
Thanks, Dinah

A good chunk of my ancestry is German catholic. I believe they were from your neck of the woods.

Posted by: Celeste of the Stars 31-Oct-2003, 08:20 PM
I've been out of the broom closet for almost 2 yrs. Well to everyone but my grandmother, shes old and I don't want to give her another heart attack. My mother took it a lot better than I thought she would. She is usually very judgemental, but all she said is, "if it makes you happy and your not hurting anyone then have fun, just don't say anything to your brother and sister (they're only 14 & 11) I promised her I wouldn't till they get older and only if they asked.
My dad (who is soooo much cooler than my mom) saw the pentical I wear and said " I didn't know your turned jewish!" laugh.gif I laughed and explained what it was. He said as long as I was happy it didn't bother him.
My husband is agnostic (he believes in a higher power, but he's not sure what power that is), when people ask him if he's a wiccan he says "no I just hold stock in it" (he provides all the funds for my work) biggrin.gif

Posted by: Eclectic_Stag 02-Nov-2003, 04:13 PM
If people ask I would tell them. But it's not a question I get asked very often. But I must admit I do wear a triskel ring now as a mark so people of similar beliefs may recognise me.

Posted by: Raven_Whitefang 13-Nov-2003, 03:19 AM
I never said anything to anyone about it, but I never hide the fact that I am. I knew I was different when I was about 6 years old. Things went well beyond the kiddy play of picking up a stick and "casting" a spell. Since then, ive had to guide my own way through my path. When my mother said something to me about my pentacle was when my family pretty much found out. Mom is a die hard born-againer. She asked me if I would remove my necklace while I was at her house. Simply said back to her "I wouldnt ask you to take off your cross whilst at my house. Its not respectful" Of course we had the whole "Witchcraft is of the devil" speil from her and me telling her the truth of what I believe. She hasnt said anything to me about it since. My uncle once again is a born-againer and he likes to debate things. I Love My Family.


Having a debate with someone who doesnt know all the facts, is an unfair fight wink.gif

vampire.gif

Posted by: bhalilama 14-Nov-2003, 10:49 AM
laugh.gif Boy, RavenWing,here's another topic that's parallel with my life.I've jumped out of the closet,ran back in,peeked my head out,closed the door,opened the door but stayed inside,jumped back out.....now I guess the door is opened,I'm out,but I stay real close to it.
My dad was a baptist preacher,my Mom is a quite sheep of the flock,and my brother is now a very vocal deacon of the sothern Baptist. Dad passed on 15 years ago,Mom and I have had many discussions (and she prays for me a lot laugh.gif ),my brother is my main concern. I have two beautiful nieces and I want to be able to be a part of their life. I steer away from topics around him. I have become firm enough in my own beliefs that I wouldn't back down from them if asked. I just try to not get asked with him around.( A covering incantation works well here.)
Two days ago I was holding my niece and she reached into my shirt, pulled up my penacle,said "What's this?".I just hugged her closer and replied(as I was replacing it into my shirt)"Just a loving circle". wink.gif One afternoon I was getting ready for a nighttime ceremony outside, when he and his wife just stopped by. I pulled up a couple of lawn chairs, asked my daughter to put on a pot of coffee,and kept on getting my fire ready. Of course, they wanted to know what I was doing. I just said "getting ready for a night of star gazing,Wanna come? I'll be out here about 11:30 to see Orion's belt overhead"(It helps to become familar with the stars on so many levels.) People know I love to plot the stars.(This is always a good reason for being outside at night!) It also helps that my brother is so full of himself that he is'nt very observiant(sp). tongue.gif Another story on this line,I was at Mom's and she needed me to help her with somthing that required me to take off my rings. I finished up ,turned around,and there is mom with all my rings on. Most of them are just Celtic knots,silver bands,but she would have s__t a brick if she understood my moonstone over a pentacle.
There was a time I thought I would be turning my back on the Lord and Lady if I didn't proclaim my beliefs to everyone. I now know that my relationship with them is mine alone.I accept that if someone needs to hear from my mouth,I'll know. the need to declare came from my upbringing.(Nothing wrong with that,just not for me.) My books are laying around and my alter is in the family room.Most people are not aware.I conceal the pentacles and such not because of shame,only for peace. Love,Light,and Happiness to all,Redbreeze

Posted by: RavenWing 14-Nov-2003, 10:58 AM
Wow, I understand completely! My brother is a Presbyterian minister and we have gone round and round on the whole spirituality thing. I am sure he is praying for my salvation. biggrin.gif

Posted by: Angel Whitefang (Rider) 14-Nov-2003, 11:14 AM
I come from a Mixed religous Background.
My Father was Italian Catholic then changed to Mormon.
My Mother was Baptist, Catholic and then she changed to Mormonism also.
My Father remained a Mormon til he passed. My Mother and Her Husband (my Dad)
are still Mormons.
Iwas Born and Raised Mormon, Changed to Born Again Christian but still felt as if something was missing. 3 years ago I Turned to Wicca. I am a Witch, I come from a long Line of witches both my GrandMothers were Witches and so were their Mothers and Fathers. Yes, I have come out of the Closet. I am not ashamed to Be who or what I am anylonger. It is difficult at times because I do get a lot of comments that are negative. My view on this I have already stated. Those who do not understand or do not wish to have a truely open mind say I am Evil for what I am. If I am then so be it. I follow my heart.

Telling my family was the most difficult. My mother and I just got off the phone with each other before I came here. She accepts the fact that I am a Witch. I just found out that Her mother who was Born October 31st was a Witch. She knows what Wicca is and felt that she didn't "fit if" so she went the Other direction.

You must pick and choose who you wish to tell. If it feels right then say something, if It doesn't then keep silent..

there are people out there who would try and do you harm due to your beliefs.

Make your own Judgement call on it. But Never be discouraged Hold you head up High and know that you are part of the Great Mother and she is a part of you.
It takes special people to do what we do. We use Positive energy to help other people. We are the healers of the world. Look around you what do you see? I see pain and suffering but I can invision a world just the opposite, If we don't do this who will? who will keep the ancient ways alive? Who will Give Mom (The Goddess) Praise? In every Family there is a Father and a Mother One can not have a Family or offspring with out the other. How does it make you feel when you have prepaired a big meal , you have worked hard all day and No One says "Thank You "?? How do you think The Gods & Goddesses would feel if we were not here to thank them?
My Best Friend and Soul Companion is Wiccan RWF. She helps me in my journey, I don't know what I would do with out her!!!

My Family accepts me for who I am for the most part. Mom still makes her comments but I choose to Ignore them. Her negative energy is worth Blocking. She is a good woman but she is stubborn. My Dad accepts me and says he loves me for WHO I am Not what path my feet have been set upon.
Blessed Be,
Angel angel.gif

Posted by: Raven 14-Nov-2003, 03:57 PM
QUOTE (RavenWing @ Jul 14 2003, 12:23 PM)
I was wondering this the other day. I haven't exactly come out of the broom closet yet. Some peope know, like some close friends and my sister, and my mom has an idea. On the other hand, my brother is a Presbyterian mimister, and I haven't been able to tell him yet. I should have nothing to fear, but I just don't want to deal with some of the possible repercussions.

If you have, how did it go? What made you decide to go through with it?

Maybe your experience will help others. (mainly me biggrin.gif)

Hi Ravenwing

I don't exactly fit the model you asked for but my younger brother does in a big way. (if not an exact way)

Our family has a very diverse religeous/spiritual background Jehovah's Witness/Mormon/Agnostic/Catholic/Presbyterian/Eastern type religeons etc....I know it's a strange hodge podge but the explanation could take up a book rolleyes.gif

Anyway through the years almost everyone in my family became born again Christians and my brother also professed this faith having previously been a self styled satan worshiper (his description)

Bare in mind that the climate arround my family paricularly my dad was in the best circumstances volitile. So when my brother decided to come clean with my parents about the fact that he is not only a wiccan but also a homosexual you can imagine the anticipated fireworks unsure.gif

It never happened. After all the explosions over what were really minor issues or differences of opinion (and believe me if you knew my parents this was way big to them) they took the news in an attitude of love. They didn't pretend to understand but they accepted and even dialoged with my brother about his reasons/feelings for being who he is and accepted him as such. I'm sure at the same time they were praying for his salvation just as their beliefs would have demanded for a loved one of my brothers belief.

My parents were both in their 60's when this happened (my brother was in his 20's)and pretty firmly established in their ways so this was a huge suprise. My sisters and I fully expected a huge explosion. It never happened, their love for him was greater than their differences.

I would hope that your family would love you enough to accept you. Even if as I'm pretty sure their beliefs may not help them to understand you.

I'm sure it is a great burden to feel as if you can not come clean with those you love.

I hope that it all works out, however you decide to handle this.


Peace, Love and Happiness

Mikel

Posted by: Pagan 16-Nov-2003, 08:22 PM
I have to start off by saying I LOVE THIS PLACE!!!! biggrin.gif Ok, now that I have gotten that out of the way..... I have found that it is important to know what you believe in. That has been the journey for me. There are so many people out there just waiting to tell you that you must believe this and this only. Even people who consider themselves to be "Spiritually Awakened". What ever that means. Your faith is a personal expression of your journey with God through this life. No one can define it for you. It doesnt have to be this way or that it can be both. I knew I was different by the time I could walk. My grandmother knew as well and was very loving and supportive even though she didnt understand. She loved me. See ,that love is what makes the difference for each of us. Unconditional love. I am clairaudient, clairvoyant, I see auras and lots of other interesting things. I am an empath and medical intuitive. I hold no certificates nor have I taken any classes in these things. I did take a Quantum Touch class and did a SuperCharging Workshop. It was great to talk to people who could do and see the same things I could. We are not the sum total of these bodies and we should not limit our experiences by our beliefs. Just remember the Prime Directive...."First practice to do no harm". and intent is everything. We each have about 60 strands of DNA and in most people only about 20 strands are activated, less in some and more in others. I have a few more active than most.
People tend to cling to outmoded religious beliefs that no longer serve their higher good. Faith is evolution and revolution. What you believe today you will question tomarrow. God is not written in stone. No matter what Moses said. wink.gif Expect miracles and they will become a part of every day life. I am sorry I dont mean to hand you platitudes but sometimes there is something to them. So in answer to your question have I come out of the "Closet"? I dont think I was ever in it. I have always been different. They put me on ridilyn when I was 9 because I made the mistake of telling my mother about the voices and the people in the attic. My grandmother was way more tolerant than my mom. My faith is a way of life. It is being in possession of a certain way of being. It is who I am. Does it have a name? No and it defies explanation. My children understand and they are like me. I may have spawned a new generation of people who can think for themselves. Wouldnt that be cool. We are Sara's children.

Posted by: Bonnie 30-Nov-2003, 07:21 PM
QUOTE (Shadows @ Jul 25 2003, 04:36 PM)
Intolerance is just ignorance disguised as prejudice! What a person believes is between them and their god and only that! Those that ridicule or persecute (SPEL) are just showing their lack of faith in their own beliefs and convictions! I have lived a full 50+ years with the intolerance of others to my beliefs, even when I was being schooled in the catholic faith I had my doubts and made them public...Gee guess what... I was a weirdo! If your convictions are sound and you do not faulter in your beliefs then you can be sure you are doing what is right between you and your god!

AMEN tongue.gif

totally agree.

Posted by: McHaggis 30-Nov-2003, 09:48 PM
"Broom Closet," eh? That's a good one, I hadn't heard that one before. Makes perfect sense, though.

RON

Posted by: DraconisMajore 03-Jan-2004, 01:14 PM
Been pagan for a number of years now, my wife is an ordained minister and High Priestess of her own coven <yes I'm a member.....I call South or North as needed>


Glad to see so many others of us here !


Draconis <pagan and proud>

Posted by: peckery 03-Jan-2004, 05:31 PM
I think I'm a lamp. Have not told anyone yet for fear of what they may think. Think my wife has an idea something is up. Shaving my head and tatooing GE 100 WATTS on top was not to "bright."

Posted by: Jaxom 24-Jan-2004, 05:58 AM
As a child I was always different, having strange body sensations, not quite out of body, more inner body. [does that make sense?]
As a child I could see a past life, it was always the same one.
As an adult if I drink too much alcohol my guard drops and I am able to tell people their future. most times it is bleak so I don't like that part.
Looking back at my family, I see all the signs. My mother is a devoted Christian and belives her gifts to be mental illness so takes huge amounts of prescription drugs to stop her visions and abilities.
my aunt can see the dead and talk to ghosts. various other members of my family have gone quite mad trying to cope with their gifts in an effot to appear to be normal to others.
Now I think I must explore my true nature and gifts, but don't know how to start.
In effect I have never been in the closet. but I think I am in a darkened room and finding it hard to find the light switch.
Jax

Posted by: Richard Bercot 24-Jan-2004, 06:13 AM
I thought that I had Posted here before, but it appears as though I haven't. I have not been a Christian for at least 35 years now. And I have been able to go back and talk to and see people of the past and I know certain people and can tell them something about them, even their physical features without ever seeing them before, as a reference just ask Annabelle. I use to do this very commonly until one night when it scared my Wife so bad that I put up a block.

Only recently have I been able to open up again. And I am well aware when spirits are around me.

I had said something to my Mother about this one day and she told me that this is not uncommon for members of my family to do this, even though most of them are Christians.

Posted by: VetteGal 01-Apr-2004, 11:11 PM
Hello,
I am still in the broom closet for the most part. A few people know, and they have been really cool about it. One keeps asking me to put a spell on someone we work with jokingly. My family doesn't know yet, I'm not sure how it would go over. Thought about it but still haven't told them.
Nikki

Posted by: Aaediwen 02-Apr-2004, 05:46 PM
I am starting to notice an ever growing Pagan (not just Wiccan) presence among people I associate with. I'm glad to be seeing it too, knowing that people can be open about it and not be 'burned' for it.

note: it doesn't quite escape me that the black cloak might help non-christians open up to me, but then some leave reading materials and such out in plain sight, and I've seen some wearing a pentacle. My cloak wouldn't effect them letting *that* be known =)

Posted by: Dreamer1 02-Apr-2004, 07:53 PM
Aaediwen,
I'm not convinced it's the cloak that's helping people (Pagans) to open up to you, but rather, more likely, it's your own Presence that helps them to relax and feel comfortable with you. My husband and I both own cloaks, and have worn them instead of winter coats sometimes. We've gotten some strange looks, but mostly people are curious and/or appreciative. The cloaks have never been the avenue for a discussion/questions/revelations/insight into Religious Beliefs.

My husband and I are both Christian, but for the past year or so I've been trying to read as many books as possible about Pagan religious beliefs, early Christian beliefs (before the Catholic Church decided which books would be included in the Bible), Gnostic Gospels, Celtic Mythology, Archeological discoveries, etc. etc. etc. There have been many surprises, and shocks, and reassessments. I'm still learning, but am expanding the boundaries that were previously "Set". I believe that there are many people now who are doing exactly the same thing--quietly studying and learning and questioning. You said that you've seen material left out in the open, and people have been wearing pentacles more freely too. People are becoming more comfortable around others of different Faiths, and more open about expressing their own. That's wonderful! It helps us all!

Dreamer1

Posted by: Sėmeag 26-Feb-2009, 05:28 PM
I was never in the broom closet; I've always been open with people about my beliefs, if ever I am questioned, which is rare. unsure.gif

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