As I trundle along on my broomstick ride I sometimes get into a conversation that seems to interest many many people.
There is the argument that forming a governing body for this movement labelled Witchcraft, Wicca, New Age practices will give us more political clout among the wider public and allow us to demand rights and equal treatment and respect among our peers.
I can agree that it would. But at what price? It seems to me that the human condition will eventually lead this movement; if organized, into something that is exactly the opposite of what makes it so attractive to people now.
People who are discovering whatever you want to label this movement......feel a sense of spiritual freedom. No one is hanging a book over their heads and telling them" This is what you must believe!"
The journey is very personal, and- as I always maintained- moves along the individual's path in the direction suited for the individual's spiritual development.
Forming an organizing body, will send a dictate, however formal or informal to persons practicing. The dictate may directly or in directly streamline the practice into a one-size-fits all faith. This is exactly what we are trying to remove ourselves from in the other religions.
For the best exploration of this debate, and the advantages and disadvantages of formal training, eclectic training; refer to "The Study of Witchcraft" by Deborah Lipp.
Lets leave this practice as fluid as we discovered it. I believe it is best for our Spiritual Evolution.
