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Religion of any form has to rely on a lot of faith on the practitioner's part. When that religion is Pagan based, which has no set doctrine or Head of Church that sets guidelines, codes and laws, it can be very difficult for beginners to know where to start or what to believe. There is a saying that if you ask 9 Pagans what is Paganism you will get 10 different answers. There are literally hundreds of Pagan paths that vary in countries, origins and beliefs. But, there are different things that a new Pagan, or a neo-pagan, can remember and practice to help them regardless of which path they are following.

Before even reading, researching or studying different paths, a new Pagan should write down all of their beliefs. This can be done on the computer, in a notebook, written as a list or written as a narrative. Write down things that are simple or complex and write down every thing that you believe. Some examples are: I believe in the supernatural, I believe in not eating meat, I believe in being kind to others, I believe in Karma, etc. Remember, these are just examples and not things that a Pagan has to believe in. Also write down what you do not believe in. This will help you when to find out what your path is. Once you have an idea of your beliefs you may be reading something one day and have an "aha!" moment and realize that this is your path (this is how it worked for me).

A new Pagan should also read and talk to people. If there is a Pagan or New Age store in your area, visit it. They can be a wealth of information, support and advice. Visit and talk, make friends with the owner and find out if there are any groups or gatherings in the area. Just remember: if you are asked to do something illegal, sexual, hurts animals or others, or generally just goes against your own beliefs or morals then this is not a true coven or gathering and not something you need to be a part of.

Familiarize yourself with the terms. There is nothing worse than a new Pagan who talks big and says little. Don't act as if you know it all or claim to know everything (that is impossible) or toss around terms that you don't know the meaning of. You will not gain any respect this way and will just be laughed at as well as disgrace the Pagan community. Learn the terms, if you don't know something, ask. The only dumb question is one never asked. Let other Pagans know that you are new but are willing and eager to learn. Most people are very helpful and will not lead you astray. However, their

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