If you’re reading this, chances are you’re a novice, just beginning your exploration of alternative religions. What does it mean to be a beginner? The beginner has little or no experience and much curiosity.

As a beginner, you see many exciting and unfamiliar things. Expect to spend a lot of time thinking about what you believe and what you want to believe, what you have experienced and how you have interpreted it.

During this stage, you explore widely, sample the scenery, dabble at this and that. You may start a journal or a Book of Shadows. You ask questions. You listen to more experienced practitioners and read books. You learn. All of this is part of the process of spiritual seeking.

Here I have presented the basics of contemporary Pagan culture, spirituality, and magic in terms accessible to the beginning practitioner. Only you can know what you need and want from a religion, so I have tried to open doors and support you in making an informed decision. However, you won’t remain a novice forever �?and it can prove challenging to tell when you have crossed that threshold.

What, then distinguishes an intermediate practitioner from a beginner? An intermediate practitioner has somewhat different concerns than a beginner, but a change of focus from seeking to developing is the key. If you have attained the intermediate level, you have made some basic decisions about your spirituality. You have chosen to pursue some things and pass by others, at least for now.

You understand the basic vocabulary and concepts commonly used in Pagan spirituality and magic, especially those from your favorite tradition(s). You know a little bit about how to find and relate to other Pagans both individually and as a community; you also know how to deal with non-Pagans. Looking back over recent months or years, you can see definite progress you have made in these areas, although you understand that you still have much to learn.

How long does a spiritual seeker usually spend as a beginner before moving to the intermediate level? This varies, but traditionally the minimum time is a year and a day. Nobody becomes accomplished at anything overnight. However, some people learn faster than others, and some enjoy better opportunities. That said, most people pass into the intermediate stage by their fifth year of practice.

An average span as a beginner would probably run two or three years, for a seeker with intermittent access to Pagan resources and limited free time for practice, both common considerations in today's busy world. Don't feel inadequate if you take a long time to make up your mind; this is a very important decision and you don't want to rush yourself.

Advanced practitioners have years or even decades of experience. They are skilled in many techniques and knowledgeable in many fields. They may serve as Pagan clergy, host events, lead groups, write books, or perform other community services. Some experts prefer to live private lives instead. Detailed coverage of expert-level material is beyond the scope of this discussion, but this is a taste.

As you continue your studies, don’t worry too much about what other people think. Always trust your instincts �?I can’t repeat that often enough. Explore widely, figure out what you like and what works for you, then focus on that.

I wish you well on your spiritual journey wherever it may take you.