On the topic of the pagan label….

Yes, it’s a label used to identify an aspect of me to other people. However, I find it not even remotely accurate in any form of describing me. My reason is that I don’t see various N.A. paths, Hindu, Shinto, or other cultural paths (with the exception of various Norse paths, though an acquaintance would probably disagree with me), being described as pagan. Yes, it’s a latin word used to refer to the country folk the Romans lived and came into contact with. Yes, I’m from the country, and thus pagan. However, my spirituality is not from the country in the lands it originated, because it was just as much from the local cities. It’s a folk religion, pure and simple.

In the modern use of the word pagan, I’m no where close. The broader base I draw from, in my spirituality, is very naturalist at its base. My foundation is not Celtic, least, not in the grander culture history. As I read more about the pre-history religions, that have survived into the written past, I find more of a connection there. My culture connection is Celtic, my world-view connection is Celtic, my religious philosophy is Celtic, but my base is the grand ole, general nature. I’ve said before that the concept of gods in my spirituality are a new addition. Before I integrated them, it was just me and my natural surroundings. Does that make me pagan in the Roman view? Probably, because I’m not Roman (remember, the early Christians would have been considered pagan by the definition). As far as the grander culture of the US (read: Abrahamic religions) I’m a heretic. Still doesn’t make me a pagan.

At any rate, while I was driving home today, the concept of Celtic spiritualism came to my mind. Not quite accurate, but probably as close as I’m going to get. After all, my work area, to be built in the backyard, is my Shinto Shrine to the Celtic gods. If other people wish to use the word pagan to describe me, they’re welcome to. However, it’s not going to get close.

**Note: my decision has nothing to do with Wiccans, fluffbunnies, et al in regards to other “pagans”.