My name is Melanie, but on this forum, you can just call me by my username: Akcallia.
I have been studying, aka reading about, magic for over 10 years, and have accumulated a lot of book knowledge as it were. I was born with varying psychic abilities that I have begun to use regularly in the past 5 years, via readings and actively manifesting. I have performed a few spells before, and I found I really liked the experience.
The reason I choose Hoodoo as my main path is because I love the feel of it, working with the herbs and roots of the earth, the folksy, down-by-the-river attitude, and the histories and wisdom of the workers who practice it. In short, all aspects about Hoodoo attract me, and there is so much to learn that I will be endlessly enthralled in both the study and practice of this magical art. I particularly love how "kitchen-witchy" this craft feels, although I know it isn't quite kitchen witchery in the strictest definition.
Something you don't know, but probably may have guessed, is that I am White. I namely come from Dutch/Germanic/French/British/Irish background, but the Dutch part is the strongest at 50%.
I have been asked why I would want to practice a craft that originated primarily in the African/American arena, and I simply say it is the soul that calls me. It is the soul that calls anyone and the soul has no race.
I have a Black friend named Luna who works at a metaphysical shop I frequent, and she is one of the most knowledgeable and grounded people I know. She herself practices Hoodoo, with some aspects of the Voodoo religion and I love hearing her talk about mojos, the blues, and good ole' Eshu who she says is my head.
I primarily wish to learn Hoodoo because I would like to help people come into the life they were meant to live, remove obstacles, and keep the faith so to speak.
I am fully aware that Hoodoo is very different from Voodoo, and always treat it as such. I come from a primarily Catholic background, but do not belong to any religion as I see the truth in all and I am very open-minded.
My goals over the next few months are to read through Hoodoo in Theory and Practice, purchase the required supplies from Lucky Mojo (along with anything else that catches my interest) and begin the Hoodoo and Rootwork Correspondence Course.
Overall, I am really excited to learn more and take the plunge into this fantastic world of magical arts, and I would really like to become an active member on this forum. If you have any questions for me, go ahead and ask them, and I look forward to talking with all of you!

Blessings,
Akcallia