Random House Dictionary definition of crone: "a withered, witchlike old woman" Barbara Walker's definition of crone: "Goddess of Wisdom" The Women's Encyclopedia of Myths and Secrets

The Crones are a group of pagan women in cyberspace who have reached a level of wisdom that only maturity can bring. Why do we call ourselves Crones? The Crone aspect of the Great Goddess is the one that every living human being must eventually come to terms with. She is also the least understood and most feared, as she deals with aging and death . Everyone ages; there is no such thing as eternal youth. Advanced age and the wisdom of experience that comes with it should be honored and looked forward to with anticipation. It is a time of life when one should look back with introspection, remembering the good times with gladness, and the bad times with wisdom. It is ideally a time of rest. It is important during this cycle of life that we continue to learn new skills and expand old ones. We should show that we are wise, vibrant, caring and loving. We have chosen to embrace the Crone within us.