Fostering Magic in my Marriage

I have been practicing Wicca for several years now. A big factor in pursuing this path has been that my husband, who is not religious or into witchcraft, supports me fully. He understands how it enriches my life and that is all that matters to him. Whenever I have some anxiety about his thoughts towards it or whenever I am doubting my path, he always asks "Does it make you happy?" Yes. Yes it does.

I am so thankful for him because having differing spiritual needs in a relationship can be a tricky situation to navigate. I am in an initiatory tradition that is oathbound, making it difficult to share my experiences with him. For a while I felt really nervous because it felt like I was keeping secrets. How was I supposed to describe what I was experiencing? My spouse shared that he had experienced a fraternity initiation that he is unable to talk about. The fact that he shared that was very validating. He understands when I am not able to give many details. He often finds a bit of humor in the mystery

However, he can be seriously inquisitive at times, and likes to ask questions about general aspects of witchcraft. He has been open to experiencing some of my practices such as:

• Shared Tarot and Oracle card draws and readings. A friend had gotten me new oracle decks and my spouse occasionally picked a card for us as were navigating IVF. I have done other readings specifically with him as well.

• Shared spell work: He has been open to witnessing some spell work with me. Like above, we worked together on setting intentional spells to create our family. I have been able to educate him about the tools I use and why.

• Celebrating Sabbats and Full moons: I make sure to let him know when special days, especially Sabbats, are occurring. This way he knows I need to spend some time in ritual. He is very respectful of my space when I need alone time for full moon rituals and other spell work.

• Sharing time in nature: Both of us love walks in nature and finding small gifts like pebbles or shells. He always compliments the moon, knowing how much it means to me.

• Signs: My spouse tends to believe in signs at times, or will ask me if something has magical significance. I enjoy sharing what meaning it has for me, so he knows for future reference.

• Supporting my growing collections: We do love to thrift and shop, and he knows what I am on the look out for! Books, candles, statues, tarot/oracle cards, stones...sometimes I have to tell him to put something back on the shelf!

• Helping me host: I am hoping to continue an annual tea party that definitely has some witchy vibes. He has been by my side when vending at events. We have also discussed the possibility of what it might be like if I lead my own coven in the future. He is open to that and appears to understand the responsibility that would entail.

• Raising our child: We both would like our child to be exposed to the religions of the world and will encourage our child to choose whatever path that feel called to. We are excited to build some pagan and Wiccan inspired traditions with our son. Yule, Easter, and Halloween are going to be such a magical time with our baby!

He has noted that I seem much happier since being more open about beliefs. He sees how I have found purpose on this path. He understands how important being a part of a community is, for he finds his happiness and purpose in the gaming community.

We understand each other well because we both have our sun sign in Aries. Recently, I was able to obtain information to create my husband's natal chart. I am looking forward to delving into what this means for him and our relationship. He has shown some interest in astrology, so I have a feeling he will welcome these insights.

Very recently, I came out of the broom closet to my in laws. They couldn't have been more supportive and accepting. They are Christian, but know that the same values run deep in our respective religions: be loving and kind.

For those that are seeking a Wiccan, witchcraft, and/or pagan path, I encourage you to discuss your practices with your loved ones if you feel safe to do so. This path can be hard to hide once you really start making it a lifestyle. It is important to have support. While this path is not always accepted by larger society, it is your right to traverse it with people who care about you.

If there is tension in your relationship in regards to spirituality, then I would encourage a conversation about relationship counseling or seek counseling/therapy for yourself. Find your support system in local groups and classes.

What are some ways you have built a sense of magic in your relationships with others who might not share the same views?