KRT: Underground Kemeticism

Underground Kemeticism: How public are you about your beliefs and practices? How has it (or not) impacted your work life, your familial and friendly ties? What advice would you give to uncertain Kemetics about how to approach either telling or not telling others about their beliefs?

To start off, I consider myself fairly open about my beliefs and practices. I certainly don’t go around smashing people over the head with my beliefs though, which I feel has been crucial in my relationships with others. If someone asks what I practice, I tell them. Simple as that. If they have questions, I either answer them or direct them to one of the many resources I have found thanks to the wonderful online Kemetic community. 

I currently don’t work, but I do attend school and find that my beliefs don’t really have an impact. I study Anthropology as well as Native American Studies, so maybe I’ve just been lucky in surrounding myself with accepting and open people at school? I know that I’ve had some curious stares before, but most people have been inquisitive as opposed to critical.

My spouse has been incredibly friendly and open about my practices. He identifies as a pagan as well, and has even welcomed Shezmu into his own pantheon and gives Him offerings as well. It’s been wonderful to share something so personal with the person I love. Also it’s been very eye-opening to share knowledge with someone even though I definitely consider myself new to Kemeticism. I feel that it has helped me grow as well as ask questions I never would have thought of all by myself.

My other family on the other hand is a different matter entirely. I grew up in an extremely conservative Christian household. My parents know I am no longer a Christian, but they do not know about my beliefs. We have an unspoken agreement to not talk about our religions anymore, as past conversations have never gone well. I currently live with my parents as well as my spouse, and my parents have been for the most part respectful of our private spaces. My shrine is out of sight to them, and they have not complained. When I do practice, I shut my door and they do not enter. It’s not an ideal situation, but I find it much nicer than having heated arguments or them coming in and being disrespectful of my shrine and private space.

As far as telling or not telling others? Do what you feel is right and comfortable for yourself. Do not tell someone if you feel uncomfortable with the person or the situation. Your personal beliefs and practices are your own, and you have no obligation to share them if you do not want to.