The Practical Pagan: Commonsense Guidelines for Modern Practioners
By Dana D. Eilers, New Page Books (Career Press)
The Practical Pagan is written for those who have just discovered that they are drawn to the Path of the Wise. It also serves as a wake up call for those who have been Pagan for a while that sometimes neatness counts. Ms. Eilers reminds old timers about, and instructs newcomers in the fine art of being a good human being and what it means in real world terms to be a Pagan in the 21st Century.
Many people enter Paganism from more organized, mainstream religions where right, wrong and ethical codes of behavior are spelled out by books and by religious leaders. No such official source exists for the new witch because Paganism is an unorganized religion. Most newcomers are overwhelmed by this lack of guidance. Sometimes this lack of written rules leads many to believe that anything goes. Nothing can be further from the truth. This book helps to set the record straight.
In a friendly and teasing tone, the author guides the newcomer in exploring what exactly a Pagan is. The easily read chapters explain what it means to be Pagan, how and whether to join a coven, how to get involved in the Pagan community and how to go about choosing a specific Path. This book examines the myths about Pagans and Paganism, discusses the real world issues of coming out of the broom closet and offers some very down to earth advice on living as a Pagan in the mundane world.
There are chapters about your sex life and even one called “Help! There is no Pagan K-Mart” which discusses how and where to find all those wonderful ritual tools, clothing and accessories many Pagans are so fond of collecting. The author even reminds us that jeans and T-shirts are perfectly acceptable ritual-wear, if that’s what makes you comfortable.
I found the author’s humorous quips to be enchanting, but some might take offense at the repetition of the importance of being honest, forthright citizens of the world. Since I personally hold similar views about people (not just Pagans) being honorable and trustworthy people in their dealings, I found myself nodding my head in agreement. I can think of more than a handful of Pagans I’d like to see read this book and get the message that being Pagan is not a license to break laws or to justify being self indulgent.
This book is a good read and an excellent addition to a beginner’s Craft library.
Reprinted with permission. Original printing Elements Magazine
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