How does one generally practice paganism, and how is wicca different from other branches of it?
For some good basics on paganism, witchcraft, and wicca, and various traditions try www,witchvox.com. There are many essays there explaining various traditions and paths. As for believing in deities, there is variance in paganism. Some believe deities are archetypes rather than actual beings, some just recognize a life force rather than any particular personification. As far as praising nature, pagans seek to align themselves with the cycles of nature, and give honor to that which gives us life. Note: While Scott Cunningham books are good as an introduction to the genral “feel” of paganism and include some good basics, some of his books are somewhat mis-titled. His books on wicca are more about general witchcraft/ folk magic, and paganism than about wicca. Many pagan traditions incorporate the four quarters, but the outward expression or symbolism utilized may vary. Calling the quarters isn’t about multiple deities. The quarters are about the elements of life and creation, although som
