A FB friend of mine posted this to her wall:
"A Must Read"
In it, it details all the times someone denied God or Jesus, and died shortly after. If someone were to look at this in a logical sense, or in a common sense way, they would know it was all coincidental.
Apparently "Marilyn Monroe" stated to "Billy Graham" that she "didn't need your Jesus" and died not long after. I could say she didn't believe in their Devil either and she died...or for that matter she flat out denied the existence of Hecate and she died.
A person denying a deity doesn't mean they died as a result. If it were, then that would make that a pretty crappy God in the first place, wouldn't it?
I don't claim there is no God, I just don't believe God is the vindictive, jealous, POS everyone makes it out to be. I believe in a more powerful force out there greater than ourselves. We can call it God, The Great Creator, whatever you want. It's bigger than us and ultimately unknowable. If we were made in God's image, you'd think he would also carry some common sense and not be entirely built on jealousy and vengeance, and at the moment we come face to face with it...it wouldn't condemn us to a fire hell, it would inquire on how our life went and if it went the way we expected it to.
Fear tactics make it so people stay faithful to the popular system. Scare people enough and they will remain faithful to that religion and/or that deity. The link above is a perfect example of this. They scare people by telling them all these celebrities denied God and Jesus and ultimately died (which, of course is NOT true), but naive people will believe this and cling to Jesus like a toddler to his favorite blankie.
I truly hope this is not the God that created this world...otherwise we're ALL going to hell.
Discussing my thoughts on various topics
Showing posts with label My Thoughts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label My Thoughts. Show all posts
Thursday, May 28, 2015
Thursday, May 23, 2013
TV Rant - A Retraction
I once...long ago...made a post that will make me sound like a total hypocrite lol. 4 years ago, when I started my blog (4 years ago!!! Can you believe that???), I would find almost anything that portrayed Witchcraft, Halloween, whatever in a bad light to be the most irritating thing on the planet.
I think I've grown up a bit since then. I've become far more tolerant, a little more patient, and sorta don't really care about what's put on tv, because the fact of the matter is...tv is fiction, and shouldn't be taken literally anyway.
I ranted and raved about the show "Supernatural". I commented on how hilarious it was for "Sam" to mispronounce Samhain (pronounced Sow-in) as 'Sam-Hain", and claimed it was a God. FFS...it's a fricken show Ma'iingan!!! (lol here I am giving myself shit lol).
I'm making this retraction because I have since seen the light, and actually find Supernatural to be quite the entertaining program. I look at it and it more or less makes me think of the good seasons of the "X-Files"...a show I adored until the main characters started appearing less and less, and the introduction of new main characters (totally turned me off as a fan) began. I think "The X-Files" ran for about as long as Supernatural is now (going on to it's 9th season (can't wait)), and I'm really getting into it...I've even bought the first three seasons so far, to watch at my leisure (just wish I could put them on my iPad without having to buy them through iTunes).
Anyways...I no longer hate Supernatural with a steaming passion. I find it entertaining (and Dean's not too bad on the eyes either lol).
It's tv...gotta cut them some slack...they don't always get things right, now do they? lol.
A TV Rant
I think I've grown up a bit since then. I've become far more tolerant, a little more patient, and sorta don't really care about what's put on tv, because the fact of the matter is...tv is fiction, and shouldn't be taken literally anyway.
I ranted and raved about the show "Supernatural". I commented on how hilarious it was for "Sam" to mispronounce Samhain (pronounced Sow-in) as 'Sam-Hain", and claimed it was a God. FFS...it's a fricken show Ma'iingan!!! (lol here I am giving myself shit lol).
I'm making this retraction because I have since seen the light, and actually find Supernatural to be quite the entertaining program. I look at it and it more or less makes me think of the good seasons of the "X-Files"...a show I adored until the main characters started appearing less and less, and the introduction of new main characters (totally turned me off as a fan) began. I think "The X-Files" ran for about as long as Supernatural is now (going on to it's 9th season (can't wait)), and I'm really getting into it...I've even bought the first three seasons so far, to watch at my leisure (just wish I could put them on my iPad without having to buy them through iTunes).
Anyways...I no longer hate Supernatural with a steaming passion. I find it entertaining (and Dean's not too bad on the eyes either lol).
It's tv...gotta cut them some slack...they don't always get things right, now do they? lol.
A TV Rant
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Listen!!!
Parusing my usual forums, I noticed a blog asking if anyone ever "listens" to the world anymore, what with forum talking, and book reading for one to get all their information when practicing whatever craft it is they do...does anyone ever listen? And I thought...that's an excellent question and "good point".
I find myself spending less and less time outside. Mostly because of the lack of privacy I have when I go outside. I'm not really a hermit, but whenever I go outside, my neighbor tends to come over and start talking about basically nothing. And I have a nosey neighbor in the back yard; I also hate bugs lol (yes, I'm a sissy, sue me lol).
I also find the sounds of the modern world to be far too distracting for me to be able to get a REAL connection to the natural world. I go to the park and I sit and try to get more connected to nature, and above me, a large cargo plane flies by, neighborhood ATV's speed past and general cars drive by. I also find myself being rather uncomfortable walking in nature, thanks to those who choose to harm unsuspecting people who choose to seek seclusion in nature. I love walking down the path that's about a 10 min walk from my house, however whenever I go down that trail, I find myself spending most of the time looking over my shoulder, expecting some large guy stalking me, to jump out of the bushes. When I'm not looking over my shoulder, I'm always looking for escape routes: There's a house just over the stream...I don't care if I get wet if I can get away from someone who would hurt me. These kinds of thoughts are so distracting, my main purpose for going to these places gets pushed out of the way, so much that I say screw it and end up going home.
Then back to the bugs. When things are a little bit cooler out, that's fine, I can go to the park or trail with no troubles in that area...but when the summer progresses, and the mosquito's and black flies come out, or even the bees, I find I dislike going to more natural areas (at least my trail...comPLETELY overrun by biting bugs). THEN...I find myself thinking...what about spiders? Ooooh I loathe spiders. I see beautiful spaces off the trail I could go to commune with the Goddess, but once a spider dangles down in front of me, or even lands on my shoulder, you better believe communion is off and I'm screaming for the hills lol.
But...that's the problem, isn't it? The excuses we come up with for not going outside. I have a million (just see the above lol). We have to start making MORE time to go outside. Forget the books, forget the forums...go outside and see what nature has to offer. We take nature so much for granted, that one day it's going to be gone, and then what are we going to do?
Now, go get off your butt and go outside...and for Goddess sake LISTEN!!!
Ma’iingan
I find myself spending less and less time outside. Mostly because of the lack of privacy I have when I go outside. I'm not really a hermit, but whenever I go outside, my neighbor tends to come over and start talking about basically nothing. And I have a nosey neighbor in the back yard; I also hate bugs lol (yes, I'm a sissy, sue me lol).
I also find the sounds of the modern world to be far too distracting for me to be able to get a REAL connection to the natural world. I go to the park and I sit and try to get more connected to nature, and above me, a large cargo plane flies by, neighborhood ATV's speed past and general cars drive by. I also find myself being rather uncomfortable walking in nature, thanks to those who choose to harm unsuspecting people who choose to seek seclusion in nature. I love walking down the path that's about a 10 min walk from my house, however whenever I go down that trail, I find myself spending most of the time looking over my shoulder, expecting some large guy stalking me, to jump out of the bushes. When I'm not looking over my shoulder, I'm always looking for escape routes: There's a house just over the stream...I don't care if I get wet if I can get away from someone who would hurt me. These kinds of thoughts are so distracting, my main purpose for going to these places gets pushed out of the way, so much that I say screw it and end up going home.
Then back to the bugs. When things are a little bit cooler out, that's fine, I can go to the park or trail with no troubles in that area...but when the summer progresses, and the mosquito's and black flies come out, or even the bees, I find I dislike going to more natural areas (at least my trail...comPLETELY overrun by biting bugs). THEN...I find myself thinking...what about spiders? Ooooh I loathe spiders. I see beautiful spaces off the trail I could go to commune with the Goddess, but once a spider dangles down in front of me, or even lands on my shoulder, you better believe communion is off and I'm screaming for the hills lol.
But...that's the problem, isn't it? The excuses we come up with for not going outside. I have a million (just see the above lol). We have to start making MORE time to go outside. Forget the books, forget the forums...go outside and see what nature has to offer. We take nature so much for granted, that one day it's going to be gone, and then what are we going to do?
Now, go get off your butt and go outside...and for Goddess sake LISTEN!!!
Ma’iingan
Thursday, December 20, 2012
"It's the End of the World as We Know It"
Ok, well it's actually supposed to be tomorrow, however if the world IS supposed to end tomorrow, will we really have internet for me to post this (now thinking about it, it almost seems redundant to post this, because if there IS an apocalypse tomorrow, there won't be internet, and no one will read this anyway lmao).
Anyways...so...tomorrow is supposed to be the BIG day, where the end of the world is supposed to happen, and there are all kinds of theories:
-Rogue planet is supposed to crash into the Earth (my favorite lol)
-Zombie apocalypse (my husband's favorite)
-Pole reversal (not really a cause for the end of the world, but a possible explanation of what's to happen tomorrow)
-Asteroid collision
-Hell freezing over (well, it IS freezing rain here where I live)
-Beginning of a new cycle in the planet
There ARE all kinds of fun ideas as to what's supposed to happen tomorrow. But personally (and I've been saying this since the hype started about this "Dec 21" nonsense), I don't believe anything is going to happen tomorrow. Nothing major anyways. I don't see there being major earthquakes, massive sinkholes (like shown on the movie 2012, which, actually, will be entertaining to watch after tomorrow)...nothing majorly noticeable.
On the flip side, though, I think (because my life is so boring outside of blogging and answering peoples repeated questions on Wicca and Witchcraft) it would be really interesting and exciting if something DID happen tomorrow...like for instance, the Zombie Apocalypse my husband is so adamant to believe will happen. I believe that I would grow very tired of it after about a year or so, but for at least the first six months, I'd be all "G.I. Jane"...sporting my tight jeans and black tank top...hair in a messy bun sporting semi-automatics in both hands shooting out zombies to rescue innocents from their narsty grasp. Hey...I can imagine once in a while if I like :)
The truth is, I don't know how to shoot a gun. I can hold guns...both rifles and hand...but to actually shoot one would take a few tries. I've tried pie-plate shooting once (my second attempt, I actually got what I was trying to shoot at). It would probably take me a few weeks to learn how to shoot properly, before I go around sporting the jeans and tank.
But I'm digressing from all this. It's funny how things go. Some random idiot "scientist" or "interpreter" of Mayan culture, misinterprets a calendar found during an archaeological dig (or search), and gets people going (sort of like that Harold Camping dude did). BUT...when you get actual Mayans telling you what the calendar says, no one listens.
Sounds familiar, no? Ask a Wiccan what Wiccans do and no one listens, but you ask a CHRISTIAN what a Wiccan does, and everyone believes them. This is the reason I believe nothing will happen (Well, actually, I believed nothing would happen because just like all the other doomsday predictions, nothing happened (i.e. Y2K)), because the Mayans and more smarter scientists claim it's just the end of the calendar (akin to December 31 of our calendar). I mean, in 3000 years from now, when our civilization is gone, and another comes along, and takes a look at our Gregorian calander and finds "December 31" and compares it to their calendar, are they going to freak out and say their world is going to end? Or are they going to look back at us and think of how ridiculous our society is for believing such nonsense.
I really don't see anything happening tomorrow. I'm far too much a realist and too rational to believe something major will happen. I'm not that lucky. Tomorrow will be Friday, and that's all it will be. It will have been exactly 1 year since my husbands accident at work, and nothing more (and let's hope nothing happens again (fingers crossed)).
Ma’iingan
Friday, October 19, 2012
More Evolved??
Are we more evolved than those who aren't of the same mindset with the same types of knowledge we have?
What does it mean to be "More Evolved"? To some, they may think that "hmm...so-and-so is so ignorant, it's not their fault, I'm just more evolved than them". In other words they think themselves higher than others because of what they think they know. That doesn't make a person more evolved than someone else; that makes them an ego-tripper, getting high off their own ego.
We Witches, Wiccans, general Pagans...are no more evolved than the ignorant old lady down the street, and anyone who thinks this should be humbled, knowing that reading a few books and knowing how to cast a few spells or to chant doesn't make a person more evolved.
No one is more or less better than someone else who happens to be a part of a different belief system that may or may not accept ours. The humbled Pagan understands that it's not about being "more evolved" or better than someone else just because of our knowledge and education. We realize that just because some people are ignorant, doesn't mean that they're "dumbed-down" and less "evolved" than us simply because we know something different.
What does it really mean to be "More Evolved"? To be truly "evolved" means that one can spot someone who may not know as much as you, and try to help that person understand what they don't understand more clearly, in a patient, non-condescending manner. A person who thinks they're "more evolved" than someone (as opposed to actually BEING more evolved) could tend to want to criticize, "prove-a-point", and deny any negative stance anything Pagan is related to (even if it's true). These types generally go by the more derogatory term of "Fluffy-Bunny".
What's a "fluffy bunny"? Someone who would rather prove that their stance on their beliefs is more valid than someone elses; fights tooth and nail that they're right, even when they're wrong; who insists that certain systems existed before Christianity (even when evidence clearly states to the contrary); who clings to the first book they bought that happens to tell them that if anyone questions their beliefs, denies anything in the book or tells them otherwise is "persecuting" them and "just won't understand, so why bother explaining". These are NOT traits of a person who is "more evolved", in fact someone who perpetuates this kind of nonsense brings down the whole Pagan system in one foul swoop; not just them, but you and me too, and is that really fair to us?? Especially us who have worked so hard to bring the Pagan community up to a more acceptable standard for society.
To be more evolved also means to be humble. To realize that we DON'T know everything, and what we DO know doesn't mean we're better than someone else. To be more evolved means to realize that there is far more to learn, and that we've barley scratched the surface...even if we've been studying and practicing for 20, 30, 40+ years.
Ma’iingan
What does it mean to be "More Evolved"? To some, they may think that "hmm...so-and-so is so ignorant, it's not their fault, I'm just more evolved than them". In other words they think themselves higher than others because of what they think they know. That doesn't make a person more evolved than someone else; that makes them an ego-tripper, getting high off their own ego.
We Witches, Wiccans, general Pagans...are no more evolved than the ignorant old lady down the street, and anyone who thinks this should be humbled, knowing that reading a few books and knowing how to cast a few spells or to chant doesn't make a person more evolved.
No one is more or less better than someone else who happens to be a part of a different belief system that may or may not accept ours. The humbled Pagan understands that it's not about being "more evolved" or better than someone else just because of our knowledge and education. We realize that just because some people are ignorant, doesn't mean that they're "dumbed-down" and less "evolved" than us simply because we know something different.
What does it really mean to be "More Evolved"? To be truly "evolved" means that one can spot someone who may not know as much as you, and try to help that person understand what they don't understand more clearly, in a patient, non-condescending manner. A person who thinks they're "more evolved" than someone (as opposed to actually BEING more evolved) could tend to want to criticize, "prove-a-point", and deny any negative stance anything Pagan is related to (even if it's true). These types generally go by the more derogatory term of "Fluffy-Bunny".
What's a "fluffy bunny"? Someone who would rather prove that their stance on their beliefs is more valid than someone elses; fights tooth and nail that they're right, even when they're wrong; who insists that certain systems existed before Christianity (even when evidence clearly states to the contrary); who clings to the first book they bought that happens to tell them that if anyone questions their beliefs, denies anything in the book or tells them otherwise is "persecuting" them and "just won't understand, so why bother explaining". These are NOT traits of a person who is "more evolved", in fact someone who perpetuates this kind of nonsense brings down the whole Pagan system in one foul swoop; not just them, but you and me too, and is that really fair to us?? Especially us who have worked so hard to bring the Pagan community up to a more acceptable standard for society.
To be more evolved also means to be humble. To realize that we DON'T know everything, and what we DO know doesn't mean we're better than someone else. To be more evolved means to realize that there is far more to learn, and that we've barley scratched the surface...even if we've been studying and practicing for 20, 30, 40+ years.
Ma’iingan
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
A Deer in the Headlights
I found myself last night feeling like a deer caught in headlights. My sister-in-law (totally randomly) asked me if I practiced Witchcraft because her oldest sister said I did. I thought I had been prepared for such a situation, having all my knowledge, and over 10 years experience enough to be able to answer the question, but I just stopped there as though an oncoming car was approaching and didn't know if I should go back or move forward.
It was a strange sensation. I didn't know what to say. I find when cornered with an uncomfortable question, I cannot answer it in a group. My s-i-l's boyfriend was sitting there and I couldn't answer the question. Now, I suppose it would have been a bit easier if she had asked me one-on-one...I probably could have come up with a quicker, more informative answer than a simple shrug as though I didn't know what she was talking about.
I'm surprised at myself...and a little disappointed. I've never, EVER been one to take my own advice. A while ago, when I was managing one of the Witchy/Wiccan groups on MSN (back when they had groups), I would always advise people about difficult situations, what they should do and not care what others think...but I was never able to take my own advice. This is one of those situations where I could have said "fuck it", and just spilled my guts on the subject, regardless of what they might have though.
What was funny though was she asked me if I did "White" Witchcraft or "Black" Witchcraft. I almost blurted out "What's the difference?" lol. I've never seen Witchcraft as being color coded, but I knew what she was asking. "Am I good Witch, or a bad Witch" to channel the "Good Witch of the North". I just hope that the next time she asks me, it's not in the company of others. I'm almost glad she didn't ask me in front of my husband...it's uncomfortable enough for me to discuss my beliefs with him...we end up in a philosophical, religious argument sometimes lol.
I don't really understand, though my hesitation...sometimes when my heart really wants to do something, my mind stops me full stop. My brain is overactive in many a situation...and this is just but another of those situations where my brain takes over entirely, regardless of what I want the outcome of the situation to be. Regardless of if I want to answer the question with full information, and my expertise...my brain will still tell me "no, she's Catholic, and believes you're evil, that you're meddling in supernatural forces that are malevolent and evil. She'll never understand so why bother trying to explain it to her. Just play dumb, and change the subject". It's not really fair for my own brain to betray me like that.
I'm a hypocrite in this fashion. I hate being a hypocrite...I want to be able to take my own advice, bite the bullet and spill my guts that I am a Witch and that's me. But I almost feel silly using the simple label of "Witch". Outwardly the word brings to mind many of the stereotypical imagery that's typical of the term. How can I take myself seriously in discussing my craft and my practice when I almost can't take the word seriously myself? If there were another word for what I do that didn't spring to mind so many stereotypes that I would have to clear up to those I discuss my craft to, it would make things so much easier. But then my life has never been easy. Sure there are many MANY other people out there with more problems than me, but my life isn't a smooth road either. My brain's hard-breaking mechanism is it's way of protecting me I assume. My life has been full of "no"'s, and to have someone accept something from me seems almost impossible. Perhaps this is why I end up like a deer in the headlights.
I'd so much like to talk to people about my beliefs, my practices and my ways...especially my own mother, who has a slight interest in Wicca...but even discussing with her is difficult...how do I simply blurt out to her that I believe in something unconventional. She's hardly Christian (in fact, she has quite a bit of animosity towards the belief system...probably where I get most of my own beliefs from against it), strong in her Native spirituality, but seems a bit on the teeter-totter when it comes to unconventional things. While she wants me to make up my own mind and is rather open in her own, she's quick to warn me the "dangers" of certain things. She knows I have my own interests in things like Wicca and such, she was quick to warn me of the evils that could come to me should I pursue it, citing her own "experimentation's" with it.
I've never once encountered anything that really frightened me. I'm highly cautious and very logic. If something doesn't make sense, or doesn't look right to me, I don't do it. I base my beliefs on my encounters and experiences. I just wish I could be as open as I want to be, without that stupid little voice in my head.
Ma’iingan
It was a strange sensation. I didn't know what to say. I find when cornered with an uncomfortable question, I cannot answer it in a group. My s-i-l's boyfriend was sitting there and I couldn't answer the question. Now, I suppose it would have been a bit easier if she had asked me one-on-one...I probably could have come up with a quicker, more informative answer than a simple shrug as though I didn't know what she was talking about.
I'm surprised at myself...and a little disappointed. I've never, EVER been one to take my own advice. A while ago, when I was managing one of the Witchy/Wiccan groups on MSN (back when they had groups), I would always advise people about difficult situations, what they should do and not care what others think...but I was never able to take my own advice. This is one of those situations where I could have said "fuck it", and just spilled my guts on the subject, regardless of what they might have though.
What was funny though was she asked me if I did "White" Witchcraft or "Black" Witchcraft. I almost blurted out "What's the difference?" lol. I've never seen Witchcraft as being color coded, but I knew what she was asking. "Am I good Witch, or a bad Witch" to channel the "Good Witch of the North". I just hope that the next time she asks me, it's not in the company of others. I'm almost glad she didn't ask me in front of my husband...it's uncomfortable enough for me to discuss my beliefs with him...we end up in a philosophical, religious argument sometimes lol.
I don't really understand, though my hesitation...sometimes when my heart really wants to do something, my mind stops me full stop. My brain is overactive in many a situation...and this is just but another of those situations where my brain takes over entirely, regardless of what I want the outcome of the situation to be. Regardless of if I want to answer the question with full information, and my expertise...my brain will still tell me "no, she's Catholic, and believes you're evil, that you're meddling in supernatural forces that are malevolent and evil. She'll never understand so why bother trying to explain it to her. Just play dumb, and change the subject". It's not really fair for my own brain to betray me like that.
I'm a hypocrite in this fashion. I hate being a hypocrite...I want to be able to take my own advice, bite the bullet and spill my guts that I am a Witch and that's me. But I almost feel silly using the simple label of "Witch". Outwardly the word brings to mind many of the stereotypical imagery that's typical of the term. How can I take myself seriously in discussing my craft and my practice when I almost can't take the word seriously myself? If there were another word for what I do that didn't spring to mind so many stereotypes that I would have to clear up to those I discuss my craft to, it would make things so much easier. But then my life has never been easy. Sure there are many MANY other people out there with more problems than me, but my life isn't a smooth road either. My brain's hard-breaking mechanism is it's way of protecting me I assume. My life has been full of "no"'s, and to have someone accept something from me seems almost impossible. Perhaps this is why I end up like a deer in the headlights.
I'd so much like to talk to people about my beliefs, my practices and my ways...especially my own mother, who has a slight interest in Wicca...but even discussing with her is difficult...how do I simply blurt out to her that I believe in something unconventional. She's hardly Christian (in fact, she has quite a bit of animosity towards the belief system...probably where I get most of my own beliefs from against it), strong in her Native spirituality, but seems a bit on the teeter-totter when it comes to unconventional things. While she wants me to make up my own mind and is rather open in her own, she's quick to warn me the "dangers" of certain things. She knows I have my own interests in things like Wicca and such, she was quick to warn me of the evils that could come to me should I pursue it, citing her own "experimentation's" with it.
I've never once encountered anything that really frightened me. I'm highly cautious and very logic. If something doesn't make sense, or doesn't look right to me, I don't do it. I base my beliefs on my encounters and experiences. I just wish I could be as open as I want to be, without that stupid little voice in my head.
Ma’iingan
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
What I believe: A Revisit
This is a revised listing of my beliefs:
1) Hexing/Cursing:
I believe it necessary at times for a stronger measure of spell to be cast against another, more for protection than mere petty childishness. Since beginning my path I have encountered numerous people whom I believe to be "toxic", and dangerous to be around. Sometimes these "toxic" people need to be removed from a situation or from a person, and general, mundane means just won't work. I may at times employ a curse for the following types of people:
-Abusive individual: this could be a family member, partner, whathaveyou
-Rapist: anyone who doesn't understand the word "No"
-Murderer: someone who takes it upon themselves to determine whose life is worth more, theirs or someone elses.
I think to otherwise employ such a powerful act, it should be done because the unthinkable has been done to another. Sometimes some people cannot protect themselves, and a curse is not just something thrown at someone willy-nilly, just because someone felt like doing one or was annoyed. No, a curse should be thoroughly thought out, consequences weighed, and a decision made, determining that this is the right thing to do.
2) The Devil:
My opinion on this individual hasn't changed much since beginning this blog. I still believe this to be a character scapegoat used to blame problems on, rather than facing personal responsibility. It's just so much easier to blame a faceless individual, than to admit you were wrong.
3) Conversion:
I've never been one for conversion. I don't believe in telling other people what they can and cannot believe. If I don't appreciate someone coming up to me and telling me my beliefs are wrong, who am I to do that to someone else? I believe those who feel the need to convert others to their religion or spiritual belief, are not comfortable in their own, and need to prove to themselves that their system is better than another, and need that constant reminder on a consistent basis.
4) God:
I acknowledge the possible existence of different Gods, however now I choose to only honor a Goddess. I haven't felt any sort of pull to any sort of masculine divinity, and feel most comfortable relaying my problems, worries, joys and thanks to my Goddess.
I don't however believe in the Christian concept of God, that he is a jealous individual, demanding his followers to follow him and him alone, yet in the next breath tells his followers to honor his son as well. I also dislike his ideas that those who choose not to follow him, are destined for his form of eternal damnation in which their "devil" resides as caretaker and general punisher. To claim to be an all loving parent figure, shows abusive tendencies if not given his way. What kind of role model is this God to his "children"?
5) Initiation:
Because I am a solitary practitioner, I see no need for initiation. Initiation determines that one is integrated into a group. One cannot integrate themselves into themself. I also do not subscribe to "dedications". A long-winded ceremony planned simply for me...merely determine that I am following a particular "path" today. I needed no "dedication" to determine where my path goes, and when I started, and I need none today.
6) "Skyclad":
For those who choose, this is a perfectly acceptable practice, however it is not one participated in by ALL Pagans, Witches OR Wiccans. Some people just don't feel comfortable enough in their own skin to participate in rituals naked (even though the human body is revered as natural, some people dislike the way they look naked...I am one of them). Regardless of if the human body is celebrated as a beautiful thing, I still will not participate in "skyclad" rituals.
7) Blood:
I used to think that blood was such a sacred thing that it should not be abused by people to enhance spells, curses, whatever. However as the years go on, and beliefs tend to change, I now see that yes, blood IS a powerful substance that CAN indeed enhance one's work, and it's not necessarily a bad thing. It puts more of the caster's essence into the working than mere materials alone. Sometimes a slght boost is needed to ensure proper work.
8) Fictional Works:
I dont' believe it's wrong to enjoy fictional works that depict Pagans and Witches is a not-so-pleasant light, if not completely riddled with errors throughout. I believe it's ok, that so long as one understands that the work IS fiction, it's ok to enjoy. Personally I enjoy watching movies like "The Craft" "Practical Magic" "Hocus Pocus" and "The Good Witch", as well as shows like "Supernatural" and "Charmed".
I understand these movies/programs are entirely fictional with no hint of reality. I KNOW that I cannot perform magic as depicted in such programs, and understand that our world is riddled with limitations.
9) Bloodlines:
I do not believe that one needs to be a part of a certain "bloodline" in order to be a Witch, and that just because someone had a "Witch" in their family doesn't automatically make one a Witch. I believe that in order for one to be a Witch, there are no easy shortcuts, and that if one wants to be a proper Witch (by that I mean no role-playing) one must take the necessary time to learn and apply that knowledge in practice.
10) Dietary Requirements:
I dont' believe that in order to be a Witch or Pagan in general, one must abstain from any form of living food. I believe that one must live healthy in order to be a Human, and that is one of the majro requirements of being a Witch and/or Pagan: to be human. To be healthy means a healthy combination of meat AND vegetables.
I do not subscribe to any nonsenseical ethics stating the cruel nature that is eating meat, and DO subscribe to the ethic that eating vegetables is just as cruel in nature; to the plant as it would be to eat an animal. In order to be healthy, and to obtain the most amount of nutrients in the smallest portion of food, one must have healthy balance. Balance is everything. Wiccans subscribe to the belief in eternal balance: God/Goddess; Light/Dark; Good/Bad; Right/Wrong...so too balance is required in a dietary fashion: Meat/Vegetables.
Ma’iingan
1) Hexing/Cursing:
I believe it necessary at times for a stronger measure of spell to be cast against another, more for protection than mere petty childishness. Since beginning my path I have encountered numerous people whom I believe to be "toxic", and dangerous to be around. Sometimes these "toxic" people need to be removed from a situation or from a person, and general, mundane means just won't work. I may at times employ a curse for the following types of people:
-Abusive individual: this could be a family member, partner, whathaveyou
-Rapist: anyone who doesn't understand the word "No"
-Murderer: someone who takes it upon themselves to determine whose life is worth more, theirs or someone elses.
I think to otherwise employ such a powerful act, it should be done because the unthinkable has been done to another. Sometimes some people cannot protect themselves, and a curse is not just something thrown at someone willy-nilly, just because someone felt like doing one or was annoyed. No, a curse should be thoroughly thought out, consequences weighed, and a decision made, determining that this is the right thing to do.
2) The Devil:
My opinion on this individual hasn't changed much since beginning this blog. I still believe this to be a character scapegoat used to blame problems on, rather than facing personal responsibility. It's just so much easier to blame a faceless individual, than to admit you were wrong.
3) Conversion:
I've never been one for conversion. I don't believe in telling other people what they can and cannot believe. If I don't appreciate someone coming up to me and telling me my beliefs are wrong, who am I to do that to someone else? I believe those who feel the need to convert others to their religion or spiritual belief, are not comfortable in their own, and need to prove to themselves that their system is better than another, and need that constant reminder on a consistent basis.
4) God:
I acknowledge the possible existence of different Gods, however now I choose to only honor a Goddess. I haven't felt any sort of pull to any sort of masculine divinity, and feel most comfortable relaying my problems, worries, joys and thanks to my Goddess.
I don't however believe in the Christian concept of God, that he is a jealous individual, demanding his followers to follow him and him alone, yet in the next breath tells his followers to honor his son as well. I also dislike his ideas that those who choose not to follow him, are destined for his form of eternal damnation in which their "devil" resides as caretaker and general punisher. To claim to be an all loving parent figure, shows abusive tendencies if not given his way. What kind of role model is this God to his "children"?
5) Initiation:
Because I am a solitary practitioner, I see no need for initiation. Initiation determines that one is integrated into a group. One cannot integrate themselves into themself. I also do not subscribe to "dedications". A long-winded ceremony planned simply for me...merely determine that I am following a particular "path" today. I needed no "dedication" to determine where my path goes, and when I started, and I need none today.
6) "Skyclad":
For those who choose, this is a perfectly acceptable practice, however it is not one participated in by ALL Pagans, Witches OR Wiccans. Some people just don't feel comfortable enough in their own skin to participate in rituals naked (even though the human body is revered as natural, some people dislike the way they look naked...I am one of them). Regardless of if the human body is celebrated as a beautiful thing, I still will not participate in "skyclad" rituals.
7) Blood:
I used to think that blood was such a sacred thing that it should not be abused by people to enhance spells, curses, whatever. However as the years go on, and beliefs tend to change, I now see that yes, blood IS a powerful substance that CAN indeed enhance one's work, and it's not necessarily a bad thing. It puts more of the caster's essence into the working than mere materials alone. Sometimes a slght boost is needed to ensure proper work.
8) Fictional Works:
I dont' believe it's wrong to enjoy fictional works that depict Pagans and Witches is a not-so-pleasant light, if not completely riddled with errors throughout. I believe it's ok, that so long as one understands that the work IS fiction, it's ok to enjoy. Personally I enjoy watching movies like "The Craft" "Practical Magic" "Hocus Pocus" and "The Good Witch", as well as shows like "Supernatural" and "Charmed".
I understand these movies/programs are entirely fictional with no hint of reality. I KNOW that I cannot perform magic as depicted in such programs, and understand that our world is riddled with limitations.
9) Bloodlines:
I do not believe that one needs to be a part of a certain "bloodline" in order to be a Witch, and that just because someone had a "Witch" in their family doesn't automatically make one a Witch. I believe that in order for one to be a Witch, there are no easy shortcuts, and that if one wants to be a proper Witch (by that I mean no role-playing) one must take the necessary time to learn and apply that knowledge in practice.
10) Dietary Requirements:
I dont' believe that in order to be a Witch or Pagan in general, one must abstain from any form of living food. I believe that one must live healthy in order to be a Human, and that is one of the majro requirements of being a Witch and/or Pagan: to be human. To be healthy means a healthy combination of meat AND vegetables.
I do not subscribe to any nonsenseical ethics stating the cruel nature that is eating meat, and DO subscribe to the ethic that eating vegetables is just as cruel in nature; to the plant as it would be to eat an animal. In order to be healthy, and to obtain the most amount of nutrients in the smallest portion of food, one must have healthy balance. Balance is everything. Wiccans subscribe to the belief in eternal balance: God/Goddess; Light/Dark; Good/Bad; Right/Wrong...so too balance is required in a dietary fashion: Meat/Vegetables.
Ma’iingan
Is there a such thing as an "Evil Wiccan"?
I love some forums, especially ones that are overridden by 13-15 year olds who think Wicca is exactly what Charmed said it was (and in the first episode, Phoebe recited the "Wiccan Rede").
This is but another gem. Is there a such thing as an "Evil Wiccan"? I'm sure there is as much a thing as an "Evil Wiccan" as there is an "Evil Christian" or an "Evil Hindu".
In my view, evil is just another choice, not something done through a controlling source (i.e. the Devil). People know the difference between right and wrong. People know that it's right to be kind to a person, wrong to intentionally hurt them, but for some reason people like to mix things up (either intentionally or because of a mental illness (some of which is genuine, while others I believe play the system to get a shorter sentence, but I digress)).
What is evil? What does that word mean? Evil is horrific acts done by someone for whatever purpose they intended. For example...seeing as today is "9/11" (and I swore to myself I wouldn't get into it this year (I guess I lied)), I can think of no greater evil than someone flying a plane full of innocent people into two skyscrapers filled with even more innocent people. This act was done by individuals who took it upon themselves to fuck up what's right and wrong, and turn wrong acts into what they figured were right ones.
So someone instilling terror into another could be considered an evil act. Could a Wiccan possess the potential for evil acts? Sure...ANYONE can. Even I (but I wouldn't entertain such acts because my idea of right and wrong is pretty much the same as other sane people). Just because someone's religious label happens to be "Wiccan" does not negate them from the possibility of performing evil acts.
The naivety of someone thinking that no Wiccan would ever commit an evil act stems from the misinterpretation of the guideline of the Wiccan Rede, determining that it means to never harm EVER. The Rede doesn't state this. It just means to be mindful of your actions and be responsible if you fuck up. It doesn't automatically trigger a switch in the brain that turns people into huge eyed pussy-cats bouncing around on fluffy clouds. All Wiccans are human. And with being human comes the trait of faults. Humans are bound to make mistakes now and then. Some really quite minor (i.e. white lie), others horrific in nature (dismembering a person and participating in cannibalism).
It's inconceivable to think that a Wiccan would never be capable of committing an evil act. The possibility IS there, and to think that no Wiccan would ever be capable of doing evil is just plain naive (probably why I found this question amongst a teen-centered forum).
Ma’iingan
This is but another gem. Is there a such thing as an "Evil Wiccan"? I'm sure there is as much a thing as an "Evil Wiccan" as there is an "Evil Christian" or an "Evil Hindu".
In my view, evil is just another choice, not something done through a controlling source (i.e. the Devil). People know the difference between right and wrong. People know that it's right to be kind to a person, wrong to intentionally hurt them, but for some reason people like to mix things up (either intentionally or because of a mental illness (some of which is genuine, while others I believe play the system to get a shorter sentence, but I digress)).
What is evil? What does that word mean? Evil is horrific acts done by someone for whatever purpose they intended. For example...seeing as today is "9/11" (and I swore to myself I wouldn't get into it this year (I guess I lied)), I can think of no greater evil than someone flying a plane full of innocent people into two skyscrapers filled with even more innocent people. This act was done by individuals who took it upon themselves to fuck up what's right and wrong, and turn wrong acts into what they figured were right ones.
So someone instilling terror into another could be considered an evil act. Could a Wiccan possess the potential for evil acts? Sure...ANYONE can. Even I (but I wouldn't entertain such acts because my idea of right and wrong is pretty much the same as other sane people). Just because someone's religious label happens to be "Wiccan" does not negate them from the possibility of performing evil acts.
The naivety of someone thinking that no Wiccan would ever commit an evil act stems from the misinterpretation of the guideline of the Wiccan Rede, determining that it means to never harm EVER. The Rede doesn't state this. It just means to be mindful of your actions and be responsible if you fuck up. It doesn't automatically trigger a switch in the brain that turns people into huge eyed pussy-cats bouncing around on fluffy clouds. All Wiccans are human. And with being human comes the trait of faults. Humans are bound to make mistakes now and then. Some really quite minor (i.e. white lie), others horrific in nature (dismembering a person and participating in cannibalism).
It's inconceivable to think that a Wiccan would never be capable of committing an evil act. The possibility IS there, and to think that no Wiccan would ever be capable of doing evil is just plain naive (probably why I found this question amongst a teen-centered forum).
Ma’iingan
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Is it me????
It's funny. I find a group that I enjoy, that has the same family feel as the one group I was a manager of, years ago, that has some active participation, and seem to be ready to let my guard down in, only to have things either change or close down. Is it me? It just seems like every time I find something that appeals to me, that has a family feel to it, shortly after I join, they close down, or make some drastic change where half the people leave.
I sometimes get the sense that I am not supposed to connect with others in a social way, whether it be out in the real world, or online. I cannot find people around my area who understand my beliefs and my way of thinking, and I can't find a group that's either willing to stay the way they are OR are willing to stay formed at all.
I used to think that being solitary was just a temporary thing...I'm beginning to think that remaining solitary is going to be permanent. Not that there's really anything wrong with being a solitary...I can do what I want, when I want...and how I want. I don't have to stick to scheduals, I can do spontaneous things, jump up and go to the park and sit under a tree and meditate all I want.
But I do want the social aspects too. I want to connect with others that are interested in the same things as me. But then...perhaps I'm too eclectic. My tastes run ALL over the board. There are LOTS of things that interest me, perhaps that's another reason why I can't find what I'm looking for.
But then, perhaps, I'm just looking for something I once had that is not gone forever. I loved my online group. We were such a close-knit family, and when we moved after MSN shut down groups, we drifted. No one could find out new home, and our "family" split over semantics. Perhaps I want things to go back to the way they were when I started my path, to find something that is now gone and belongs in the past (man, I'm sounding depressing lmao).
It doesn't help that in every forum I go to now, there's all kinds of drama that pops up. It's usually stupid petty things; but then it's also ignorant things that really doesn't need to pop up in the first place...one person adamantly determined that THEIR way of practice is right and everyone else's is wrong. Sounds familiar. Whatever happened to letting people do what's comfortable for them? Whatever happened to not labeling ourselves?
I want a group that can accept everyone's personal ways as their own; acknowledge that someone may practice something similar to you, with a little tweak here and there to make their path their own. Why is that so hard to ask?
Ma’iingan
I sometimes get the sense that I am not supposed to connect with others in a social way, whether it be out in the real world, or online. I cannot find people around my area who understand my beliefs and my way of thinking, and I can't find a group that's either willing to stay the way they are OR are willing to stay formed at all.
I used to think that being solitary was just a temporary thing...I'm beginning to think that remaining solitary is going to be permanent. Not that there's really anything wrong with being a solitary...I can do what I want, when I want...and how I want. I don't have to stick to scheduals, I can do spontaneous things, jump up and go to the park and sit under a tree and meditate all I want.
But I do want the social aspects too. I want to connect with others that are interested in the same things as me. But then...perhaps I'm too eclectic. My tastes run ALL over the board. There are LOTS of things that interest me, perhaps that's another reason why I can't find what I'm looking for.
But then, perhaps, I'm just looking for something I once had that is not gone forever. I loved my online group. We were such a close-knit family, and when we moved after MSN shut down groups, we drifted. No one could find out new home, and our "family" split over semantics. Perhaps I want things to go back to the way they were when I started my path, to find something that is now gone and belongs in the past (man, I'm sounding depressing lmao).
It doesn't help that in every forum I go to now, there's all kinds of drama that pops up. It's usually stupid petty things; but then it's also ignorant things that really doesn't need to pop up in the first place...one person adamantly determined that THEIR way of practice is right and everyone else's is wrong. Sounds familiar. Whatever happened to letting people do what's comfortable for them? Whatever happened to not labeling ourselves?
I want a group that can accept everyone's personal ways as their own; acknowledge that someone may practice something similar to you, with a little tweak here and there to make their path their own. Why is that so hard to ask?
Ma’iingan
Monday, February 20, 2012
I feel the call...
I've neglected my prayers and such for too long. I feel my Goddess' call again. This time she's asking me to do something different.
Researching different ways to connect with her, I came across someone's description of connecting to the Goddess, I think I might try.
While I don't have the particular items of offering she would like (say honey and red wine), I will improvise. I DO have herbs of offering for her (garlic, lavender, almonds, etc) I can give her, that she might enjoy.
I plan to cast a circle, and line it with stones and candles associated with her. Place an offering dish down, perhaps a drink of my own that I may also offer her, then perhaps attempt a tarot or rune casting, amid some prayers and research (yes, though a faux pas, I might bring along my laptop). I'm hoping to rekindle my connection with her. It irritates me that times come when I lose my connection with her. I feel guilty when I don't do nightly/daily prayers to her (though I DID make good on promises I made to her, regarding certain prayers of health and protection of family members).
I'm biding my time until I either get a space I can dedicate to my path in my home, or move to another home that will allow for a small room for myself (this is something I've thought a lot on, however the size of it is now negotiable).
I'll let you know how it goes.
(Oh...and I've just realized...it is the eve of a New Moon...perhaps during all of this I will do a New/Dark Moon ritual as well...perhaps THIS is why she is calling me...hmmm....)
Ma’iingan
**UPDATE**
Oh she came, lol. She definitely doesn't like to have her name repeated in chant. Mental note for next time lol.
Researching different ways to connect with her, I came across someone's description of connecting to the Goddess, I think I might try.
While I don't have the particular items of offering she would like (say honey and red wine), I will improvise. I DO have herbs of offering for her (garlic, lavender, almonds, etc) I can give her, that she might enjoy.
I plan to cast a circle, and line it with stones and candles associated with her. Place an offering dish down, perhaps a drink of my own that I may also offer her, then perhaps attempt a tarot or rune casting, amid some prayers and research (yes, though a faux pas, I might bring along my laptop). I'm hoping to rekindle my connection with her. It irritates me that times come when I lose my connection with her. I feel guilty when I don't do nightly/daily prayers to her (though I DID make good on promises I made to her, regarding certain prayers of health and protection of family members).
I'm biding my time until I either get a space I can dedicate to my path in my home, or move to another home that will allow for a small room for myself (this is something I've thought a lot on, however the size of it is now negotiable).
I'll let you know how it goes.
(Oh...and I've just realized...it is the eve of a New Moon...perhaps during all of this I will do a New/Dark Moon ritual as well...perhaps THIS is why she is calling me...hmmm....)
Ma’iingan
**UPDATE**
Oh she came, lol. She definitely doesn't like to have her name repeated in chant. Mental note for next time lol.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Accpetance...but not really happy about it
I've come to the acceptance and realization that I am a "Low Magic" practitioner...but I'm not happy about discovering this. I understand the term and what it means, and that it's not supposed to be meant in a derogatory way (even though there are those out there who deem "low magicians" as beneath them)...but it's difficult.
The discussion of "Low Magic" and "High Magic" to me seem like two people discussing how one is better than the other. I can't shake that feeling. I realize that low magic is simply earth bound magic and that high magic is more ceremonial in it's nature and usually incorporating numerous ethereal beings...but hearing people talk about low and high magic just sounds wrong to me.
Yes...I practice spell work, herbal work, natural practices, etc. No...I don't always incorporate deities into it and no...my practices do not take hours to days to complete. But does this make my practice less valid? NO! It doesn't!
It's difficult to let go of the derogatory feeling I get when I encounter a discussion regarding low and high magic. A High magician is no more or less better a practitioner than a low magician...just one takes longer.
Do I REALLY have to accept such a label? I know that labels just serve to segregate us from each other; to separate us into our own little categories or cliques, and that many like to think we don't need them...but sometimes we do, and this is just one that I REALLY don't want. I cannot shake my dislike for having my practice looked down on because it's "Low" magic. Sorry, I'm not a ceremonial magician. I prefer my practice be straight to the point. I hate people who drag things on or beat around the bush...it's one of my pet peeves.
Ma’iingan
The discussion of "Low Magic" and "High Magic" to me seem like two people discussing how one is better than the other. I can't shake that feeling. I realize that low magic is simply earth bound magic and that high magic is more ceremonial in it's nature and usually incorporating numerous ethereal beings...but hearing people talk about low and high magic just sounds wrong to me.
Yes...I practice spell work, herbal work, natural practices, etc. No...I don't always incorporate deities into it and no...my practices do not take hours to days to complete. But does this make my practice less valid? NO! It doesn't!
It's difficult to let go of the derogatory feeling I get when I encounter a discussion regarding low and high magic. A High magician is no more or less better a practitioner than a low magician...just one takes longer.
Do I REALLY have to accept such a label? I know that labels just serve to segregate us from each other; to separate us into our own little categories or cliques, and that many like to think we don't need them...but sometimes we do, and this is just one that I REALLY don't want. I cannot shake my dislike for having my practice looked down on because it's "Low" magic. Sorry, I'm not a ceremonial magician. I prefer my practice be straight to the point. I hate people who drag things on or beat around the bush...it's one of my pet peeves.
Ma’iingan
Friday, January 27, 2012
Happy Birthday
Once again, the year has come round and it's again my birthday. I'm now 30. Am I depressed? A little, but not for the same reasons I was last year. I've accepted the inevitable 30's approaching. But I'm just not happy because birthdays just don't mean the same thing as they used to.
Birthdays used to mean getting together with friends, having some fun, maybe some cake, going to dinner with my husband and/or family. Now, I get none of that. To me, it's just friday. Is that not a depressing thing? Much the same goes with my wedding anniversary. It's just going to be another friday...even though this year will be our 10th anniversary. Am I going to expect anything? Nope. I'm tired of having expectations, then having them crushed because someone's spiteful.
Why celebrate when it's apparently not worth it?
Ma’iingan
HAPPY BIRTHDAY...to me
Birthdays used to mean getting together with friends, having some fun, maybe some cake, going to dinner with my husband and/or family. Now, I get none of that. To me, it's just friday. Is that not a depressing thing? Much the same goes with my wedding anniversary. It's just going to be another friday...even though this year will be our 10th anniversary. Am I going to expect anything? Nope. I'm tired of having expectations, then having them crushed because someone's spiteful.
Why celebrate when it's apparently not worth it?
Ma’iingan
HAPPY BIRTHDAY...to me
Monday, December 12, 2011
My Stance on Feminism
I recently had a comment on one of my posts regarding my position on Feminism and was asked if I myself was a feminist. I thought I would take my commenter up on their suggestion that I should do this as a blog post, so here you go Marie Benoit :)
No. I do not consider myself a feminist. I read the article you linked me to and my stance remains. While I can agree on **some** topic within the feminist movement (such as equality for women), I have to say I do NOT agree with all areas. For one thing, I find most feminists are ALWAYS against men, and I think that's unfair. They feel that all the problems in this world stem from men and men alone...that men are the reason for wars, poverty, subversion and oppression towards women and the cause of ALL negative acts due to religion. This is an unfair assumption towards men. Sure, there are perhaps SOME men who are related to these types of problems in this world but those problems are NOT all the fault of men, as there have been many women who are just as guilty for creating such worldly problems.
For another thing, many feminists put themselves (and thusly all women) on some kind of pedistal, thinking that women ARE better than men simply because they decided to no longer allow men to dictate their role in the world (to be barefoot and pregnant). These types of feminists take things to a whole new extreme...that when women decide that they WANT to be stay-at-home-mom's they're looked down on as though they allowed their men to push them into a life of subversion, meanwhile the choice was completely theirs.
What does all this have to do with Wicca and Paganism you might ask...well the article I was linked to was on how Wicca is "dangerous" to women. That it creates women who are illogical and incapable of thinking like men. If that isn't a sexist comment...women who practice Wicca ARE just as logical and DON"T need a religion to determine their place in the world...women CHOOSE to follow it because it brings them a sense of spiritual fulfillment!
Though this article was written by a women, I think she's very naive, in my personal opinion. Being a "Manga' writer, does she not see how women are portrayed in many such writings? Perhaps in HER writings they're portrayed in more ways than a sex symbol, but in many of the Manga and other such things **I** have seen, women have always been portrayed in the same way...big breasted, blond, with a teeny-weeny little waist if not a teeny-weeny little skirt (see below for a link to images linked to "Manga") If that isn't a stereotype and sexist attitude that feminists shouldn't be up in arms about, then I don't know what is.
As for Wicca being harmful to women, I couldn't see how that's entirely possible. For one thing Wicca is seen as a women's religion. You'd think many feminists would be happy to see a religion geared towards women, but you'd be wrong. Most people misunderstand that Wicca is only for women, whereas Wicca stresses equality of men and women. As for creating a naive attitude in women that is not logical...far from it. I'm a Witch (not a Wiccan), but I think I'm far more logical now (after originally being a part of Wicca for a few years) than I was when I was Catholic. I cannot shut off my logical mind. If it doesn't make sense to me, then I don't agree with it, and that's my perogative. I hold great respect for the scientific community and it's discoveries. And also know that much of what is practiced within the spirituality of Wicca and other Pagan belief systems HAVE been scientifically verified (however many wish to deny it). The fact that energy manipulation CAN have an effect on oneself and others; that stones and plants carry vibrations that can be beneficial in healing ailments and illness...these are all things people have known for centuries. Sorry to say though that some cannot accept this as "scientifically based" simply because it wasn't featured in the latest issue of "Journal of American Medicine" or other sciency magazine.
I really have no problems with women seeking equality in a world that is now patriarchal...but we forget that our world once DID have a matriarchal society and we were just as bad off. Feminism can be ok, so long as people don't try to make it into another extreme...as it would come off in this article.
Article: http://www.skepticnorth.com/2011/05/wiccans-and-mystical-women-how-new-age-is-secretly-bad-for-feminism/
**Manga Imagery Link
No. I do not consider myself a feminist. I read the article you linked me to and my stance remains. While I can agree on **some** topic within the feminist movement (such as equality for women), I have to say I do NOT agree with all areas. For one thing, I find most feminists are ALWAYS against men, and I think that's unfair. They feel that all the problems in this world stem from men and men alone...that men are the reason for wars, poverty, subversion and oppression towards women and the cause of ALL negative acts due to religion. This is an unfair assumption towards men. Sure, there are perhaps SOME men who are related to these types of problems in this world but those problems are NOT all the fault of men, as there have been many women who are just as guilty for creating such worldly problems.
For another thing, many feminists put themselves (and thusly all women) on some kind of pedistal, thinking that women ARE better than men simply because they decided to no longer allow men to dictate their role in the world (to be barefoot and pregnant). These types of feminists take things to a whole new extreme...that when women decide that they WANT to be stay-at-home-mom's they're looked down on as though they allowed their men to push them into a life of subversion, meanwhile the choice was completely theirs.
What does all this have to do with Wicca and Paganism you might ask...well the article I was linked to was on how Wicca is "dangerous" to women. That it creates women who are illogical and incapable of thinking like men. If that isn't a sexist comment...women who practice Wicca ARE just as logical and DON"T need a religion to determine their place in the world...women CHOOSE to follow it because it brings them a sense of spiritual fulfillment!
Though this article was written by a women, I think she's very naive, in my personal opinion. Being a "Manga' writer, does she not see how women are portrayed in many such writings? Perhaps in HER writings they're portrayed in more ways than a sex symbol, but in many of the Manga and other such things **I** have seen, women have always been portrayed in the same way...big breasted, blond, with a teeny-weeny little waist if not a teeny-weeny little skirt (see below for a link to images linked to "Manga") If that isn't a stereotype and sexist attitude that feminists shouldn't be up in arms about, then I don't know what is.
As for Wicca being harmful to women, I couldn't see how that's entirely possible. For one thing Wicca is seen as a women's religion. You'd think many feminists would be happy to see a religion geared towards women, but you'd be wrong. Most people misunderstand that Wicca is only for women, whereas Wicca stresses equality of men and women. As for creating a naive attitude in women that is not logical...far from it. I'm a Witch (not a Wiccan), but I think I'm far more logical now (after originally being a part of Wicca for a few years) than I was when I was Catholic. I cannot shut off my logical mind. If it doesn't make sense to me, then I don't agree with it, and that's my perogative. I hold great respect for the scientific community and it's discoveries. And also know that much of what is practiced within the spirituality of Wicca and other Pagan belief systems HAVE been scientifically verified (however many wish to deny it). The fact that energy manipulation CAN have an effect on oneself and others; that stones and plants carry vibrations that can be beneficial in healing ailments and illness...these are all things people have known for centuries. Sorry to say though that some cannot accept this as "scientifically based" simply because it wasn't featured in the latest issue of "Journal of American Medicine" or other sciency magazine.
I really have no problems with women seeking equality in a world that is now patriarchal...but we forget that our world once DID have a matriarchal society and we were just as bad off. Feminism can be ok, so long as people don't try to make it into another extreme...as it would come off in this article.
Article: http://www.skepticnorth.com/2011/05/wiccans-and-mystical-women-how-new-age-is-secretly-bad-for-feminism/
**Manga Imagery Link
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Why I'm not Wiccan: A Revisit
I have made a previous post stating why I am not a part of the Wiccan religion (ah, tis the season for revisiting posts lol). I thought I'd update that reasoning.
I think now it stems from the condescension dripping from many of the practitioners of Wicca, particularly many of the traditionalists, but those from eclectic branches also.
Lately I have see an uprising in complaints from those on either side...the traditionalists and non traditionalists and it's really... redundant in my view.
One person says "I'm mad because so-and-so says I'm not Wiccan simply because I'm a part of such-and-such 'tradition'" or "So-and-so isn't Wiccan because they're not of the BTW or Garnerian tradition".
Who Cares??? I mean...Wiccans have enough problems being accepted in the world, why do they feel the need to nit-pick on labels?
I am SOOO glad I'm not Wiccan. If being Wiccan means a pissing match between "traditions" then I'm glad I'm not a part of it. I'll stick to my Eclectic Paganism...no need to be a part of something that can't agree. So much for being a tolerant religion when they have no tolerance for each other. It's pathetic.
**UPDATE**
HA, this puts things into perspective...Seeing as I'm transferring Pagan Scriptures into my little bookey-book here...Chapter Six lines 3, 4 and 6 say: "3. Therefore, let there be no condemnation from one soul to the other that they judge one another in their paths in their chosen identities. 4. For each soul must learn a lesson and experience new things." "6. Therefore, let all souls feel free to experience and live as is needed in their attainment to Divine Perfection." Perhaps people should take a "page" here and just let people be.
I think now it stems from the condescension dripping from many of the practitioners of Wicca, particularly many of the traditionalists, but those from eclectic branches also.
Lately I have see an uprising in complaints from those on either side...the traditionalists and non traditionalists and it's really... redundant in my view.
One person says "I'm mad because so-and-so says I'm not Wiccan simply because I'm a part of such-and-such 'tradition'" or "So-and-so isn't Wiccan because they're not of the BTW or Garnerian tradition".
Who Cares??? I mean...Wiccans have enough problems being accepted in the world, why do they feel the need to nit-pick on labels?
I am SOOO glad I'm not Wiccan. If being Wiccan means a pissing match between "traditions" then I'm glad I'm not a part of it. I'll stick to my Eclectic Paganism...no need to be a part of something that can't agree. So much for being a tolerant religion when they have no tolerance for each other. It's pathetic.
**UPDATE**
HA, this puts things into perspective...Seeing as I'm transferring Pagan Scriptures into my little bookey-book here...Chapter Six lines 3, 4 and 6 say: "3. Therefore, let there be no condemnation from one soul to the other that they judge one another in their paths in their chosen identities. 4. For each soul must learn a lesson and experience new things." "6. Therefore, let all souls feel free to experience and live as is needed in their attainment to Divine Perfection." Perhaps people should take a "page" here and just let people be.
Friday, November 4, 2011
"Should God Apologize??"
I encountered a young woman who asked this question not once...NOT twice, but a total of **10** times!!!
(**a little update, it was 11 the other day**)
She gave no other reason for this other than she wanted other opinions. By asking this question 10 times, you're going to get no different answers than the ones you already got, so it's best to move on (but I digress).
The real reason I'm making this post is to address the main question. Should God Apologize? This young woman goes on (at great length) to describe many things she feels God caused including war, rape, disease...generally anything negative and therefore "evil" in the world. My question is, why is this resting SOLELY on God? God didn't cause war! God didn't cause rape! God doesn't necessarily cause disease (depending on the disease)!
The ones who should be apologizing are the ones using God to justify going to war, and causing rape and other unspeakable acts to innocent people. Do people really think God is the reason all this crap goes on in the world????? How incredibly naive!
People cause wars, perhaps due to direct or indirect misinterpretation of sacred religious texts (bible, koran, etc), or perhaps due to money, greed, selfishness, etc. These are human traits. War is a human construct. God has nothing to do with war. People just use God as their excuse.
The same goes with other unspeakable acts against innocent people. People make their own choices. God doesn't make people do anything (just like the Devil doesn't make anyone do anything). If someone chooses to rape someone, that's THEM doing it, not God. People rape innocent people out of power and control, not sexual desire. Other acts including genocide, abuse, whatever are also personal decisions made by PEOPLE. Those people just choose to use God as their excuse to make it justifyable (and I can't believe there are people out there naive and stupid (yes stupid) enough to actually believe those excuses, including the young woman asking the original question).
As for disease, that's really more science, than it is God's problem. Sure, perhaps s/he created the micro-organisms causing the diseases, but situations cause them to grow and multiply to become dangerous. Living in despicable, dirty places cause such diseases and other issues to form such as Ebola, E. Coli, Staph, etc. Dirty, unsanitary conditions provide the best breeding grounds for devastating disease...these things can be avoided by putting aside petty differences and greed and cleaning up where you live. However, this all goes back to the war discussion above, because people are so greedy and aweful, conditions like these will continue...it has nothing to do with God.
God also didn't create diseases such as obesity and diabetes, these are caused either by natural processes (the way the body grows), OR an unhealthy lifestyle. These are not God's issue. God didn't make anyone over eat, or eat the wrong things. They did that on their own.
The bottom line is...we need to stop blaming God (or the Devil) for the problems of the world. That's the problem with the world to begin with. People are too quick to pass blame than take responsibility!
(**a little update, it was 11 the other day**)
She gave no other reason for this other than she wanted other opinions. By asking this question 10 times, you're going to get no different answers than the ones you already got, so it's best to move on (but I digress).
The real reason I'm making this post is to address the main question. Should God Apologize? This young woman goes on (at great length) to describe many things she feels God caused including war, rape, disease...generally anything negative and therefore "evil" in the world. My question is, why is this resting SOLELY on God? God didn't cause war! God didn't cause rape! God doesn't necessarily cause disease (depending on the disease)!
The ones who should be apologizing are the ones using God to justify going to war, and causing rape and other unspeakable acts to innocent people. Do people really think God is the reason all this crap goes on in the world????? How incredibly naive!
People cause wars, perhaps due to direct or indirect misinterpretation of sacred religious texts (bible, koran, etc), or perhaps due to money, greed, selfishness, etc. These are human traits. War is a human construct. God has nothing to do with war. People just use God as their excuse.
The same goes with other unspeakable acts against innocent people. People make their own choices. God doesn't make people do anything (just like the Devil doesn't make anyone do anything). If someone chooses to rape someone, that's THEM doing it, not God. People rape innocent people out of power and control, not sexual desire. Other acts including genocide, abuse, whatever are also personal decisions made by PEOPLE. Those people just choose to use God as their excuse to make it justifyable (and I can't believe there are people out there naive and stupid (yes stupid) enough to actually believe those excuses, including the young woman asking the original question).
As for disease, that's really more science, than it is God's problem. Sure, perhaps s/he created the micro-organisms causing the diseases, but situations cause them to grow and multiply to become dangerous. Living in despicable, dirty places cause such diseases and other issues to form such as Ebola, E. Coli, Staph, etc. Dirty, unsanitary conditions provide the best breeding grounds for devastating disease...these things can be avoided by putting aside petty differences and greed and cleaning up where you live. However, this all goes back to the war discussion above, because people are so greedy and aweful, conditions like these will continue...it has nothing to do with God.
God also didn't create diseases such as obesity and diabetes, these are caused either by natural processes (the way the body grows), OR an unhealthy lifestyle. These are not God's issue. God didn't make anyone over eat, or eat the wrong things. They did that on their own.
The bottom line is...we need to stop blaming God (or the Devil) for the problems of the world. That's the problem with the world to begin with. People are too quick to pass blame than take responsibility!
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
"Guns Don't Cause Violent Crimes, Poverty Does": A Response
I found this discussion on a Pagan forum found here
The question is..."Why do you dislike guns?" then the OP posts "facts" about guns.
Now, I don't like guns, but I also don't dislike guns. I'm kind of in the middle. I don't like the irresponsible people who purchase guns. My stance on guns is that only those in authority should have access to hand guns. There is NO LOGICAL reason for the average citizen to own a hand gun (I personally do NOT care what the constitution says about the "right to bear arms". That was drafted long ago when people were responsible, unlike today where irresponsible CHILDREN obtain guns to make them feel tough). No logical reason! (and I stand by that statement). The only use for a hand gun is defence (or in most cases in todays common youth is offence). Only those in authority (police, military) should have access and use of hand guns. I also think guns such as AK-47's and other military grade weapons should not be accessable to the average citizen; they should NOT be distributed in gun stores. Again, NO LOGICAL use for such guns.
I have absolutely NO problem with shotguns or rifles, coming from and marrying into families of hunters. Hunting is something legitimate that guns may be used for. Hunting for food (not for mere sport) is the only way I support guns and gun ownership.
There is nothing anyone can say or show me that will make me support any gun ownership for other reason than authoritative use and hunting. IMO one must go through rigorous training, and licencing for hunting purposes in order to obtain a hunting gun. If the gun is used in any way other than hunting for food purposes (for example, robbery, gang or drug related crimes), the gun is removed, the person either imprisoned, or forced into military work and sent overseas.
Now, I agree that it's not the gun that causes the crimes. Really, an object cannot commit a crime, and I agree that a person can commit crimes with other objects than a gun, however, guns (especially in the US) are more readily available and accessable to the average person, with nothing more than merely a 5 day waiting period, and even if someone has a history of weapons offences, they still are able to obtain a gun for whatever purpose they wish.
It makes me sad when people fight tooth and nail for gun rights, rights for people who wish to use guns to injure and kill other people. Boo hoo, guns don't kill people, people kill people...yeah, after purchasing them from somewhere. It's also interesting that the OP claims it's people in poverty who own guns and kill. Hmmm....perhaps if they used the money they spend on a stupid gun to buy food or better clothes to get a better job, perhaps they wouldn't be in poverty in the first place, now would they?? I've lived in poverty for almost all my life. I don't own a gun, no one in my immediate family owned a gun (parents, sisters, etc). I don't allow guns in my home. I don't need a gun to live. I have never needed a gun, I don't ever feel like I need a gun, and I highly doubt I will ever get a gun! Sorry, but that blows this OP's theory right out the window!
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