Dear Rose, As I write this I feel I am fighting a battle within. I’ve been a follower of the goddess for almost 4 years now, and spent nearly 7 years before that researching and doing my homework before completely dedicating myself to the craft. I wear my pentical with pride and thank my goddess daily for giving me the opportunity to have found her and to be under her protective wing. However now I am having a slight problem. Up until the age of 13 I was raised Catholic by my devoted Catholic grandmother. I know that no matter how old I get it will always be part of me. There have been more and more thoughts of the possibility of becoming a nun. Although I have the need in me it is not to serve their god because I know that despite my upbringing I am far to liberal but I do wish to serve. I wish to serve the people and help others find their way as well as well as completely dedicate my life to a higher power and find my inner peace. So tell me is there anyway I can do this? Perhaps even by becoming a priestess? I am at a loss at what to do especially because I am a solitary and have no coven to turn to. So what’s a woman to do? Sincerely S

Greetings dear S, You were very fortunate to have been raised by a grandmother. I am sure that she helped you grow up and taught you the importance of a spiritual life. However, this is your life. You are free to be whatever you choose to be. Do not be pressured into any lifestyle that you do not wish for yourself. As a follower of Goddess, you are not very far from the Catholic religion and its rituals. However, regardless of what religion we follow, it is a good idea to think for ourselves when we become adults. In many cultures, people are pressured to take up jobs or vocations that are not by their choice, but by the choice of their family. This practice is unfortunately still being followed in some parts of the world. You have to remember that you have a choice. If you were destined to be a nun, the Goddess would have inspired you to do so. You can still serve others and find your inner peace, it may be a good idea to find others in your area who can show you the way. Check out the website http://www.witchvox.com and search there for a coven near you. Visit the local occult book shop and talk to the people who come there to find out about covens near you. Read the book “Wicca: A guide to the Solitary Practitioner” By Scott Cunningham. There are some references for solitary practitioners in that book. Hope this helps you in your journey. May you find you peace very soon. Brightest Blessings.