Wiccan Widow Wins!

I was so happy to catch this bit of news this morning. I must admit that I had almost completely forgot about the whole debate and I feel very bad for it. However, I write this with a mirkish grin and something akin to pride in those who stood up for a fallen soldier to be recognized in in his faith.

Well, you don't expect me to just leave that alone there do you? Of course not.

Any wiccan, anywhere, should be able to excercise or be granted their right to religious expression in equality to any other faith - even if it is no more or less - and anywhere that a Wiccan is denied this any and all of us who are able should be quick to rally around them in support. It is a sad sad sad state of affairs wherein anyone is ignored, denied, or neglected on basis of their religious convictions, especially in a country that prides itself on diversity and freedom of religion and speech.

Even if this were not the case, and we did not share those liberties, I would still encite Wiccans to stand tall for their beliefs and kin on the Path. The church of men is the world of men, and we are all members of the same congregation. Our voices, actions, and efforts ring just as loudly in the halls of life as any other bona fide living being.

Wicca - while in its religious infancy in the US - may be relatively small, but we are larger than life where it counts... our conviction. No person, of any belief or authority, has the right or power to say what another person can and cannot do or express. We CHOOSE to submit to our nation's (or any nation's) laws for the continued and healthy preseverance of our way of life, but at that point it seems to get blurred... "The President says you are not a real religion." SO FREAKIN WHAT! The President also said "God" told him to go to war with Iraq... what's your point?!?!

Wiccans CHOOSE to be humble, faithful, peaceful, thoughtful, and more. We choose to be Wiccan, and we should never let that choice become justification for our treatment as being somehow not as worthy for recognition or respect, honor or rememberance. THIS IS ESPECIALLY true where any Wiccan has sacrificed themselves for the greater good of the whole - and in the above mentioned case, when a Wiccan soldier dies in service to this country.

I have to say that I am ashamed and embarassed by our military and government in a lot of instances, and this one surely took the cake for some time. But, I still smile and thank the gods we are here inthis country, where are struggle for recognition and accpetance is simply a matter of money, persistance, and good lawyers... I know that sounds bad, but it is fairly true, and I am thankful for this because it does not require we necessarily "die for a cause". We need no martyrs, and if such was our culture and thought-opposition, I would instead encourage Wiccans to not reveal themselves, enjoy the Path, and live the mysteries in silence.

We don't solicit converts. Nobody is going to hell for not being a Wiccan (or being one for that matter). We don't entice the youth of America or brainwash the long suffering and young. Part of me is inclined to subscribe to the philosophy "They don't ask, I don't tell". But then, there are times, moments, and instances where I feel we should be recognized, or at least honored for what we are when we are remembered. I don't care about or really think we need the "mass acceptance" and legalization. Those things are trivial and petty. But the liberty to recognize and honor those who came before us and sacrificed for all should be one we hold aggressively and defend for others.

I like stories where other Wiccans join the "fight" on teh side of some lonely band or solitary who is out-gunned and out-manned. I love the calvary image ;o) But when I hear the opposite, I wonder why the Wiccans in their community left them out to dry. Where were they? Why didn't they speak up and out! Why didn't they move and act?! What did they have to lose? Their reputation? Job? Home? Life? What value to you place on your beliefs? What cost would you pay?

Now, I know not everyone is capable of coming to the rescue for everyone all of the time or under any circumstance, but we as Wiccans can do something... so, next time you circle, remember those Wiccans who sacrificed themselves for us, who comitted their greatest works to us, and who under the most dire of circumstances refused to bow down or hide what they were .... for us.

Also, remember those who are doing it now. Who silently and patiently sow the seeds of acceptance through their honesty, openess, and willingness to be of some help to all us anytime we are in need. Those devic spirits who run our stores, write our books, publish our content, design or favorites bumperstickers and craft our symbols and signs in metals to adorn ourselves... to declare our conviction and pride.

Remember them all next time you circle. Remember the often and you are doing more than most. Should you have a chance to come in support of another Wiccan - don't hesitate to do it. Lead by example, and do what is good and right.

Wow, that was starting to sound sappy... I better get some more coffee ;o)

Blessed Be.














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