A: Working with others is probably one of the most rewarding parts of being Wiccan. Losing ties to a coven can be devastating and can rock the foundation of your beliefs. But it's possible to bounce back and be a stronger witch for the experience.

Spiritualitea Recommends: Living Wicca : A Further Guide for the Solitary Practitioner by scott cunningham Of Witches : Celebrating the Goddess As a Solitary Pagan by janet thompson To Stir a Magick Cauldron : A Witch's Guide to Casting and Conjuring by silver ravenwolf

It doesn't matter what phase of the moon or month you begin to work again, as long as you begin. Start by doing something simple, such as writing a devotional to the god and goddess and reciting it a couple of times a week at the same time of day. Celebrate the sabbats if there are public rituals in your area. See if any new books have come out in an area that interests you.

You'll probably find that working as a solitary is very different than working in a coven structure. You may think that the energy you raise isn't as effective or you might feel even a little silly speaking aloud with nothing but the walls to hear you. But rest assured, working alone can be just as powerful, akin to singing solo as opposed to singing in a chorus. Keep your rituals very simple to begin with -- even as simple as lighting a single candle and speaking directly to the god or goddess.

If you feel so moved, you can also do a small ritual to rededicate yourself to the craft. You may choose to do this on the dark moon (traditionally a good time for initiations and rites of passage) or during the waxing moon to allow the growing moon energy to represent and feed the new beginning you're embarking upon.

Allow yourself to work through whatever healing process you may need during this time. You may have feelings of regret, anger, distrust in your abilities, and depression as a result of getting back into the craft you previously worked with others. These are perfectly normal and natural. If you find you've begun a ritual and simply can't go through with it, shut things down, ground and center and have a cup of tea. Try again another time.

The important thing is to remember the reason you originally became Wiccan and why it calls to you now. Allow yourself to rediscover the journey and enjoy the learning process. Take it slowly, but do keep moving forward.