牋牋牋牋 Coming out of the broom closet can be a very stressful, though rewarding time. There are several questions that you should ask yourself BEFORE coming out of the closet, because once you're out in the public as a Wiccan/Witch, there's no going back in. You can't say "haha, just joking!". It's a very serious matter. Also, for the teens reading this, finish reading this and remember all that is written here. Then, go over to the For the Teen Witch page for additional information.

1. Why am I coming out into the public as a Wiccan?
牋牋牋牋 Ask yourself exactly why you want to do this. Is it for attention? To make your mother have a heart attack? Be truthful with yourself. If you come up with answers like those, DO NOT do it and reconsider why you're on the Wiccan path in the first place. However, if you're tired of living a lie and feel that some people, especially those who are close to you and are trustworthy, deserve to know, then continue on through this list. You're doing just fine so far.

2. Who all do I want to know?
牋牋牋牋 This is a biggie. Most Wiccans do not want everyone (even those whom they don't know!) knowing that they don't fit into the Christian mold. So tell those that you feel will understand and won't flip out on you. Also, tell only those that you know you can trust to keep their mouths shut. If you know that your parents would go beserk and disown you, then logic states that you shouldn't tell them. You love your parents, and they love you, but you are not required to fill them in on every detail of your life. But don't go to great lengths to hide it, either, because then they will think you are doing something bad and evil that you are ashamed of if you do everything in your power to keep it secret.

3. How will those I tell react?
牋牋牋牋 This is very important in deciding who you tell. Think specifically of the person you want to come out to, and then try to truthfully imagine their reaction. After that, you decide if you should tell them or not.

4. If this slips and more people find out, how will it affect the non-religious parts of my life?
牋牋牋牋 While America has laws that try to prevent discrimination on the basis of religion, we all know that it happens and that it is EXTREMELY hard to prove. So how will this knowledge affect your job? Your status in the community? Your relationships? Your connections? Keep thinking along those lines, go as far as you need to. Once again, these things will way very heavily on your decision to come out to the public or not.

5. What are the possible dangers to my mental and physical well-being?
牋牋牋牋 As everyone knows, it can be a dangerous thing to be different, especially if you live in the Bible-belt. While religions teach tolerance and love, not everyone practices them. Will it endanger you and your family if people know your religious standing? Is there a chance that you will be attacked or harrassed? (If you ARE attacked and harrassed after you decide to go public, INFORM YOUR LOCAL AUTHORITIES IMMEDIATELY!!!!!!!!!)

6. Am I sure that this is the path for me, and that I want people to know?
牋牋牋牋 It seems like an odd question after going through the first five, but in many cases, people aren't sure, but they feel as if they HAVE to come out. NO ONE HAS TO COME OUT AS A WICCAN. In many cases, it is safer, both mentally and physically, to stay a closet-Wiccan. So think it through, and be honest. Do you really want to do this?

After you have spent a lot of time thinking on and answering these questions honestly, make your decision. If you come out, congratulations! If you decide not to, don't worry. You have no responsibility to the Wiccan community to come out and possibly put yourself and your livelyhood in danger. Do what is right for you, and do it smartly. Blessed be, and good luck!