Entering the Ring

“Before anything else, preparation is the key to success.” (Alexander Graham Bell) Think about it for a moment.   A gymnast chalks up before a routine.  A runner warms up before the race.  A basketball team performs drills before the game.  A musician practices for countless hours before the big performance.   Proper preparation is the most desired plan of action for most embarking on a new journey. 

Living in a modern world, and practicing a minority and ancient faith, we have many challenges to overcome.  There’s not exactly a temple around every corner.  The only community for most of us is the virtual community of the internet.  While we can be connected to other polytheists and members of our faith around the globe, there are severe disadvantages to a virtual only religious environment.  It’s so easy to be cold, cynical, callous, and cruel when you can hide behind a user name.  Things most people would never dream of saying in person, they gladly vocalize online.   The few bad apples in the bunch, can spread their lies, prejudice and hate with no adequate means to stop them.  Report all you want to Facebook, they won’t do anything.  Various forums on different websites you can find heated debates that often turn nasty over both ridiculous and more important matters.  It seems the concept of manners, grace, etiquette, and character are lost.  When I decided to follow this path, I was disgusted at the attitudes displayed by people who claimed to love and worship the same Gods.  I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised, but it was disappointing nonetheless. 

I wasn’t planning on starting a blog.  Being an obsessive planner and organizer I would have preferred to have more experience and knowledge before writing about my spiritual path but it has become evident that another voice must be heard.  There has to be more options because more of us who are not jerks , stuffy, or stuck up have to speak up.  You don’t need to be a classics major to worship the Gods and they will not smite you for being imperfect.  You don’t have to read x number of books.  Knowledge is important and learning about your faith is important but not at the cost of your humanity.  A little humility and kindness can go a long way.  I think taking it slow is best.  Putting one foot in front of the other and take the time to enjoy life.  Light a candle and say a prayer.  Our spiritual life doesn’t have to be so complicated.  When you are ready for more, do more, but only when you are ready and comfortable.

This blog is dedicated to the Gods and Goddesses of Ancient Greece and Loki.   I couldn’t just say one God because they are several who have impacted my life and my spiritual practice.  I feel closest to Ares and Apollon, but my writing will not be limited to just those deities. Loki and I are getting to know each other.  I was curious about him for so long that I couldn’t resist any longer! I tend to lean towards the reconstructionist and traditional route.  My desire is to make this a virtual sanctuary, a safe haven for those searching and as an act of worship to the Gods I love and serve.  I believe in the beauty of simplicity.  I don’t see my worship of the Gods as a chore or requirement but as a celebration of gratitude and love.

“Awakened in darkness” is exactly how I came to the Gods.  Alone, scared, hurt, abused and overall complete mess but it was from there that I was found and saved. 

About these ads