What Not to do When Coming Out of the Broom Closet

If you fallow me on Facebook you know that it was recently my father's birthday. I've been thinking about him a lot this holiday season and how he loved the way I expressed myself. When I came out as a witch to my parents it was very heavy handed. I was responding to some pressure. My mothers concern was related to me continuing the tradition I was raised in. My fathers concern was that I wouldn't be able to express myself at all. In an effort to put myself back into that mindset, so I can explain this to you, my words are halting and my thoughts feel very restricted. After several intimidating phone conversations, my mother finally asked me what my new "spiritual" path was called. I answered Wicca. My mother's response made me feel like she didn't want me to be a part of the family anymore. The most hurtful thing that she had said was that I couldn't be buried next to my family when I pass away.

I came back later to my parents individually apologizing for my initial heavy handedness. I felt very angry and defiant at the time. That wasn't the right path to take. When I said this to my father, his response was I was just trying to be myself. My mothers response was more reserved. She asked me to not wear my Wicca jewelry around the rest of the family and not to openly discuss religion with them.

A piece of practical advice I could share is to wait until you've actually moved out of your family home before sharing your news. This way everyone will have a place to go and you can regroup and come back if tempers get too heated. Ultimately there's no quick and painless way to come out to your family. I hope this is helpful for when the time comes to share the news. Feel free to share your story or ask questions by accessing the "share your story" section of this website or contacting me directly. As always keep walking with the Goddess!