Magic Forums

What does it mean to be a witch or practitioner of magic in this time and era?
In the past it meant to be part of the community and being known as person with wisdom and helping advice
Either through herbal remedies or spells. They were revered and respected and being known as wise or medicine people. Traditionally women were called witches and men alchemists. If one wanted to learn the art one was apprenticed to that person. Sometimes it was tedious work from cleaning to running errands but one was taught the art and knowledge of witchcraft. As knowledge obtainable easily its the experience needed to become respected and wise.
These days magic is seen as being able to do wondrous flamboyant acts.
People want to be able to control the weather and people, make things fly through the air and summon all kinds of creatures.
With society today one can't apprentice anymore as against beliefs and the experienced ones too scared for lawsuits, so how do we learn?
Yes lots of books around but want to learn hands on. And how does one discern between authors of high regard?
So back to my question what does it mean to be a practitioner of magic in this age?