Ishani

Hello. I am interested in learning what it means to be Shivite... I am hoping to find something deeper than "one who worships Shivah". I have been having trouble finding anything that explains it wholly to me so that I understand on the internet so I have come here to ask. I realize also that there are Vishnuites and Brahmanites, I want to know what is the difference, what are the meanings of the markings on the forehead and why would my Amma be a Shivite and can Amma's be other sects as well? ~Namaste~