I'm Okay (Pagan) You're Okay (?)

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Nov 30, 1999

Is the title somewhat familiar? Well, I hope you're able to recognize the pun in the title. One of the reasons I write for this topic is to provide informtion to dispel misconceptions about being Pagan and being Wikkan. For one, I believe in choice. We all have the right; many of us have the sentience and intelligence, as well, to choose our day-to-day agenda.

So, why then, is it considered not possible for the average person to make an intelligent and intuitive decision as to what spiritual path they will follow? One of the primary beliefs amongst Pagans is that we all have in us the ability to decide what path to walk down. That kinda leaves out putting the responsibility on another individual for one's own spiritual growth, doesn't it?

Well, let's start with the origin of the words pagan and heathen. Originally they were terms the Romans applied to the country dwellers and those that lived in the heaths to imply lack of sophistication and non compliance to the religion they were spreading as they conquered the various parts of Europe. They have evolved to mean those who are not Christian or have no religion. It is the prevailing mindset, I've discovered, to harbor some thought of inherant evil in those who are not members of one or more of the major religious groups. Pagans, because of their interest as well in the esoteric and Wikkans because of their manipulation of things not understood are considered to be evil, worthy of a death sentence, or at least in need of having their souls saved. (Frankly I question using death as a punishment for any crime. Who really benefits?)

I have yet to understand why it is so feared a thing that many of us heathens and pagans take great effort in seeking answers to questions which arise from within and are ridiculed for it. Why is individuality and independent thought so reviled? Is it perhaps because we find freedom from something which is perhaps not even defined by the other more controling religions? Perhaps the hecklers can find no other way to silence the voices which cry for attention within their own spirits. I can't answer that for you, you'll have to figure it out yourselves.

Does my litany in the previous paragraphs mean I have no respect for or tolerance for other religions? Not at all. I believe in tolerance for all religions with the expection there will be tolerance for my beliefs as well.

Blessed Be. Myrrha

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