Charter of the Temenos...

On Being a Witch
A Statement of Principles and
A Word to the Wise

The Old path is a long path and a torturous one; fraught with difficulty, and littered with obstacles.   But as with all things of worth, it is the noblest sacrifice; and ultimately, rewarding.  But for those of you who have only begun to look down the path and contemplate its meaning, I offer you a few suggestions - and a few dire warnings.

As I have said, Wicca is not an easy path.  There is no simple way of becoming a witch.  The level of commitment and discipline required is unlike anything you've encountered. The things you will be asked to give of yourself will tear your being in half, but must be given selflessly and lovingly, without thought of reward.

You have years of learning ahead of you; and even more years of un-learning to do.  You must be thorough and meticulous in all your studies, and devout in your pursuit of perfection - for we are each made in the beauteous image of the Gods and to less than our best in all things is the most despicable ingratitude.

You must be better than every one around you in all aspects of morality, kindness and compassion - for you have been called on to be something much better:  a Witch.  Those around you should be inspired to rise to a new level of being by your presence, and you must be forever on guard against the excuses and weaknesses of yourself and others.

A true Witch never whines, never complains.  A true Witch does everything in their power to rectify a bad situation, or rise above it and lead by example.  A witch never makes excuses.

The responsibility of your life rest squarely on your shoulders, and on your shoulders alone.  It is for you to be the best possible you in spite of any one else; and to set an example for those around you.

Nothing will ever be perfect and life is not fair.  Get used to, then forget it.  As Kung Fu Tze himself has said, "A truly happy man does not have what he wants, he wants what he has."

The Gods are watching you at all times, in all ways. Your Priest and Priestess are not. Never be perfect because some one else is watching you. Be perfect because you are watching you.

Witchcraft is not a race, nor is it a competition.  Never measure yourself against any one else -- for better, or for worse.  Look to your own spiritual growth and trust that the universe will unfold as planned.

A coven is not a perfect entity. It is a large family that requires effort, love, and understanding.  It will not run smoothly all of the time, and it may not run smoothly most of the time. There is ample room in any coven for discussion and debate, for critique and improvement.  There is NO room for whining and complaining, malice and resentment.  And always, ALWAYS remember that being a member of a coven is an honour, a privledge and a responsibility- but it is never a right.

Be humble. Practice learning every day. Practice saying, "I don't know but I will find out." until it becomes second nature; for only then will you have cleared enough space within yourself for your soul to grow.

Above all, know yourself.  If you have any doubts, or do not think you can give of yourself as is required, do not step out upon the path until you are ready.  Witchcraft requires strength, courage, curiosity, humility, understanding, intelligence, compassion and above all, maturity. Unless you come bearing all of these gifts, please - do not come. - Lady Syrinx

Blessed Be.