Understanding the Concept of Perfect Love and Perfect Trust

One of the central phrases used within Wicca is the axiom of "Perfect Love and Perfect Trust".  The origins of this phase is believed to have come from the Rede of the Wiccae allegedly penned by Lady Gwen Thomson and published in 1975.  In the poem, we find the lines:

"Bide the Wiccan Laws ye must, in perfect love and perfect trust ..."

Though often dismissed these days as unattainable, to act in accordance of the axiom of "Perfect Love and Perfect Trust" is still consisted an extremely important focus within groups such as the Temple of the Dark Moon.  From the outset, "trust" is bestowed upon the individual as they are given entry to the covenstead of a working group, whether to attend a social function, an esbat or undertake training.  This trust is that they will conduct themselves and act in a manner that is in accordance with their "True Will", and show the appropriate degree of respect and dignity that they would expect their own guest to show them if the situation was reversed.

"Trust" is also given in that any printed material provided is also treated with respect - that being, not shared to those who have not undertaken any form of training with the Temple unless permission by the Temple's High Priestess has been given.

The "love" shown to those who have given entry to the covenstead shoud not be confused with the concept of "emotional" or even "sexual" love that most of us seek in a partner, but one of "unconditional" love, one that involves the opening of one's heart without any conditions and which again tends to be closely connected with "trust".


To the student, the concept of "Perfect Love and Perfect Trust" is shown in return from the outset in that the payment of teachings are often left up to the student to attend to - by placing any monetary donations in the appropriate container and/or other donations (usually in the form of canned food goods for charities such as the Animal Welfare League) in the appropriate bag.  There is no one marking off payment in  any kind of book that goods have been received.  "Trust" is placed upon the student that they respect the "conditions" of entry into the covenstead and in doing so, are happy to commit to the exchange of "energy" - a minimal fee/donation for time and knowledge shared.

The ability to demonstrate such a concept assists the student at a later stage should they wish to gain entry into the Temple's Inner Court.  This is often because of the very nature of the work undertaken here needs to be conducted in an environment where all members trusts implicity their fellow coven members.  This, in itself, leads on to another axiom in that "what is said in the circle, stays within the circle".

"Trust" is something that can be hard and sometimes even difficult to earn - yet can be destroyed extremely quickly.  In this day and age it can be a big expectation (on both parties) to show "Perfect Love and Perfect Trust" to complete strangers. It is for this reason that as part of our service to the Pagan community as a whole, the Temple of the Dark Moon offers various events where initial meetings can take place.
  
At the end of the day, after all of the above has been undertaken, should any person still demonstrate an unwillingness or inability to demonstrate "Perfect Love and Perfect Trust", then it would be strongly suggested that trainign with the Temple of the Dark Moon is not for them and that they seek training elsewhere.