There comes a time when you might feel the need to make your religious practice known to friends and family. In the Pagan community, there is a debate whether we should all come out of what is sometimes referred to as the broom closet or be more cautious and keep to ourselves. The argument is that if more of us came out then Paganism would have to be accepted as a real religion by the populace at large.

I favor taking a conservative approach as coming out does not have to be an either/or proposition. Paganism will not be helped by people putting themselves in harm's way. Rather, each person must weigh the pros and cons of revealing their religion. While we should enjoy the freedoms others do without fear, the fact is we need to think of the safety of ourselves and those we love.

Before you come out, here are some questions to ask and issues to think about regarding your motives and any repercussions you will face.

Are you new to Paganism? Followers of evangelical faiths are not the only ones that experience the desire to proselytize for their new found religion. When you find that special path your spirit feels at home with, you might want to shout it to the world. If your reason for coming out is to convince someone else to follow your faith, remember that Pagans try not to proselytize.

Do you live, work, or go to school with fundamentalists who will make your life hard if you come out? Do you have the means to live independently? Do you live in a progressive area? While the law may technically be on your side if it gets to the point of harassment, you will still be living or working in an uncomfortable if not hostile environment for a while. It's best to really think about what you are willing to put up with from friends and family.

Are you are truly able to answer the questions people will have about your religion? Make a list of questions you think they will ask and answer them for yourself first. This will give you confidence when the time comes to explain your beliefs to them. Make sure to let them know that you still respect their beliefs. You have just found something else that speaks to your soul.

Realistically, fundamentalists who think their way is the only way most likely won't listen to what you have to say. You need to be prepared for that. Be very cautious if you know this is the type of personality you are dealing with.

If the fundamentalists are family, it's best to wait if you can until you are financially independent and/or confident in your ability to stand your ground. Even then, approach the subject carefully. Before you come out to family, find at least one friend that you can confide in. You can even practice stating what you believe and bounce ideas off of each other.

If you want to come out at work or school, look around at what support system you have. Does the human resources department only give lip service to equality or do they really support anti-discrimination laws? In the US, organizations such as Pagan Educational Network, Lady Liberty League, and the ACLU are a good starting point to find out more about your rights. The Pagan Federation UK and Pagan Federation International are also great resources outside the US. Pagan Pride is also a well-known international organization.

What do you hope to accomplish by coming out? Freedom, peace of mind, justice for all Pagans? Just like followers of other religions, not all Pagans feel the need to let their faith be known. Religion is a personal way of connecting with our own spirituality and the divine. However, because it is such a large part of who we are is precisely why some of us want to share it with those we care about. Otherwise, it's as if we are showing two faces instead of one every time we are with them.

The questions and suggestions above aren't meant to deter you from being yourself or suggest that you don't challenge behavior that violates your civil rights. Rather, they are merely guideposts to help you better articulate exactly what it is you believe and boost your confidence when you are ready to come out. Know the law, your rights, and the feasibility of your own situation before taking that leap into new territory.