Initially when I was approached to write a blog post for our newly launched website, I honestly wasn't sure what to write. I kept starting, and stopping, and deleting... repeat. But then one night I was looking at old photos from back in junior high and high school, and all I could remember was one thing: how miserable I was. And why was I miserable? Because I couldn't express myself!
Although the common mindset of the general populace is often of disdain for the Wiccan culture, I have always had a special interest and appreciation for what Wicca stands for. In particular I was always drawn to the symbols that often represent the Wiccan community such as the pentagram. Over time I became aware of the fact that it wasn't just something I was interested in, it was a part of who I am. In my youth I was not permitted to express myself outwardly as I wanted to. A strictly 'professional' appearance was what was expected, how else could you ever succeed in the outside world?
Thankfully in the years since then, our society has changed greatly in the way it perceives certain symbolism and styles, and although I am still almost guaranteed to draw a gaze or two while out in the public in my preferred gothic aesthetic, it is far less glares of judgement than it would have been back when I was younger. Even still, there is plenty of room for growth in our society for acceptance of the unusual. A different style, an alternative religion... none of it matters in the grand scheme, and just because I walk around with piercings and pentagrams does not affect my ability to be a good human, a good mother, or a good worker.
When I was approached by the CEO of 'Wiccan Spirits' to work on this project, I was elated. I finally get to prove them all wrong; I can succeed in the world, even with my piercings, even with my tattoos, and despite some people's judgements. I get to show my parents that despite them trying to stifle my self-expression, they did not win, I still became who I knew I was meant to be, and I still persevered.
Alyssa Peever
Web Developer
Wiccan Spirits
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