|
|||||||
|
|
|
|||||
|
|
|||||||
Guest Commentary:
Spiritual Diversity
within the Pagan Community
I'm sure that I can't tell you any more than you may already know about spiritual diversity, but I will give it a try. Allow me to begin by sharing my own personal definition of "spiritual diversity". First, my definition of spiritual: It is the light, the harmony and the balance within (oneness) with the God/dess. Next, my definition of diversity: It is the uniqueness of being different. Therefore, spiritual diversity can be defined as the unique differences in the "oneness" with the God/dess.
Within the Pagan community, there are several different spiritual paths that make up the community. These spiritual paths may include any Earth or Alternative Religion - Druidry, Wicca, Native American Shamanism, Buddhism, etc. It must be understood, however, that there are many Wiccans, Native American Shamans, Medicine Men and Priest/esses that do not consider themselves pagan. The term "pagan" to these groups is considered insulting.
The word "pagan" , to the select group mentioned above, is not a religion but a term that is used to describe a country dweller or heathen. Today, many of these groups feel their spiritual path has no connection with being classified as a "country dweller" or "heathen". Their spiritual path is one of being connected with the universal flow of life. Even though their rituals, belief and form of magic may be different, they are all interconnected.
Spiritualism is not composed of jealousy, backstabbing or hate. It is an acceptance of all spirituality. Spirituality is the "soul" part of us all with the total wholeness of the universe. In each of these spiritual paths, one must learn to be in control of oneself and not others in order to walk in their own spiritual path of oneness with the God/dess. This is where the open dialogue about the diversity of these spiritual paths can lead to a better understanding, acceptance and tolerance of the rituals, beliefs and practices of all Earth and Alternative Religions.
- Della
Home Page Current Issue Past Issues The Frater's Domain Quill's Corner