Paganism is a general term applied to the traditional polytheistic religions and traditions mainly of Europe and the Mediterranean basin. Neo-paganism is what is used to describe reconstructionist religions such as Hellenic, Celtic and Germanic traditions today. Wicca on the other hand is a neo-pagan movement with a bewildering number of branches and traditions. Its origins and history before 1941 are however debatable. Its original creator/discoverer was Gerald Gardner who claimed it was an old religion passed down through the ages by those who refused to convert to christianity. He claimed to have stumbled across one such coven in the new forest and this was how he found out about its history and technicalities. However skeptical evidence against Gardners claims are quite strong. Much of the information that comprised Wicca was available in the occult scene at the time, from such sources as the Woodcraft movement, Druidry and the works of Crowley. Whatever the true origins it is probably the most popular of all neo-pagan movements.

As for the bad luck, a good old fashion piece of positive mental attitude cannot go amiss. There is an old occult saying that like attracts like. If you want more happiness in your life then you should have a happier attitude. It is very much the case of we create our own world.

Daniel /|\

I too have had a bad year troubled with cancer in family memebers, death and a lot of trauma but in wicca i find the inner strenghth to be strong blessed be