Pagan Wrimos! http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852 Cadaverine Hey everyone! Any Pagans doing NaNo this year?? Tue, 11 Oct 2011 01:02:08 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1729 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1729 Lady Noble I'm actually newly dedicated Pagan Writing Witch when we're entering NaNo this year. I'm gonna self-dedicate on Samhain. Nice to meet you! :) Tue, 11 Oct 2011 01:11:44 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1834 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1834 Cadaverine I dedicated on a Samhain too, many years ago now :D I think it's a good time for it. Tue, 11 Oct 2011 01:13:00 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1850 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1850 Cadaverine Oh, I can't edit my post! So I'll reply to it instead. Introducing myself! I'm a Heathen and a religious Hedgewitch, practising for about 11 years now. :D Tue, 11 Oct 2011 01:14:08 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1862 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_1862 Lady Noble really? That's cool! Someone told me Samhain wasn't good for dedication, that I shuold wait 'till Yule, but I can't wait. For me It's important to do it at Samhain. Are you gonna write about something Pagan-ish? Tue, 11 Oct 2011 01:44:13 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_2160 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_2160 Fiona W Lady Noble, Samhain is perfect for dedicating because it's the pagan New Year's Eve, the begnning of the calendar that takes you through the eight high holidays: Samhain, Yule, Imbolc, Spring Equinox, Beltaine, Summer Solstice, Lughnasad, Fall Equinox, and then starting over again with Samhain. (What you call these holidays—and how you spell their names—may vary, of course.) Thanks for starting this thread, Cadaverine! I'm a 56 y.o. retired doctor currently living in Maryland (near DC). I dedicated (my coven at that time call it "initiation") on Samhain in 1987. My religion is a mix of neopagan flavors: My most recent affiliation was a long period in a mostly Celtic-focused druid grove, but that grove fell apart (as all pagan groups do, sooner or later) in 2009. So I guess I'm a solitary now, but I do go to the occasional holiday ritual held by a druid grove in Baltimore. Anyone here who worships Hindu deities? They're part of the great IndoEuropean family, of course, so even my druid grove didn't consider them out of place in pagan rituals. I have a statue of the goddess Durga (warrior w/ ten arms, rides a tiger) on my writing desk. =smile= Fiona Tue, 11 Oct 2011 02:14:11 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_2542 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_2542 Cadaverine Noble: What that time of year means to you and what the holiday you celebrate symbolises to your dedication is not for other people to say ;) It was the right time for year for me for a variety of reasons and it may well be the right time of year for you, so go for it. For me it's not New Years, but it was still the right time to hold it. I don't write Pagan-themed novels - or at least I haven't yet. I tried it once but the idea wasn't workable, and it would have become preachy. I'd hate for something to become preachy. So I tend to leave religion out of it entirely. Tue, 11 Oct 2011 02:18:14 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_2592 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_2592 Rohahnya I'm a new Wiccan - Ostara was my first Pagan Holiday, although I have felt for the past 30 years that a church is just a building full of people and that my "church" was to be found out in Nature - that it doesn't matter where or how you worship, but how you carry yourself in life. I am currently reading Celtic Myth and Magick. I have been mostly reading on my own but will be starting classes in town soon. I don't know enough about Wicca yet to feel comfortable including it in my novel Tue, 11 Oct 2011 04:02:15 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_3512 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_3512 Cadaverine Ohhh... by Edain McCoy? I wouldn't. She's not the world's best author, particularly on Celtic stuff. (She thought they had potatoes. There's even a website dedicated to debunking her.) Unfortunately many MANY books in the Pagan world contain awful amounts of misinformation. Edain McCoy is one of the poorer authors. Others to avoid are DJ Conway and Silver Ravenwolf. Starhawk's "Spiral Dance" is one of the worst books ever. Just letting you know ahead of time, just in case, because these books are all over the place - the poorer the information the easiest it is to find, unfortunately. The Pagan publishing world is full of bad information, cultural and religious misappropriation (including tacking the word "Wicca" onto anything and everything) and even racism and bigotry. Generally speaking, it's best to avoid stuff published by Llewellyn, though other publishers aren't guilt-free in these areas and there are a few Llewellyn gems. Just read critically ^_^ That's really the key. Check out "Witches' Bible" by the Farrars, "Wicca: the Old Religion in the New Age" by Vivianne Crowley and the works of Gardner himself for good sources on Wicca ^_^ I've also heard great things about Deborah Lipp. Tue, 11 Oct 2011 04:37:13 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_3806 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_3806 Dream Soul I'm also pagan, with hints of druidry, elements from wicca, and an interest in the fae. I've been officially pagan for about 6 or so years, and am a solitary, as there's not many pagans in the far north of the Highlands of Scotland. nice to meet you all! Tue, 11 Oct 2011 04:41:22 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_3839 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_3839 Fyreheart I'm a chaote. I've been on the pagan path for 14years ish. Tue, 11 Oct 2011 05:08:06 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_4038 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_4038 Lady Noble thanx to all you ppl answering me. It's difficult, cause it's so much in this religion. I'm christian as well, so I think that leavs me as an eclectic witch. I'm starting my own coven by my self. I want to be a soitary, cause for me this is very personal. But I love to talk about it with others online. In RL I think it's difficult to talk about it, cause if you say "I'm a witch" here in Norway, you'll just end up with ppl laughing at you. Tue, 11 Oct 2011 06:23:13 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_4509 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_4509 Cadaverine Oh! Why celebrate Samhain if you're a Christian, then? Tue, 11 Oct 2011 07:28:37 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_5100 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_5100 Laimelde I'm an Australian eclectic witch, practicing for 8 years now (how time flies!). I later founded a coven with some like-minded pagans and the coven has just celebrated it's 5th birthday last Ostara, which is Sept 21st-ish for us -Southern Hemisphere = Sabbats are adjusted by 6 months. Makes reading most pagan books interesting, since you have to keep adjusting the dates in your head. Otherwise you find yourself trying to celebrate Yule in 35°C/95°F weather!! I've never included my religion -or even religious themes of any sort -in my stories. The story ideas I've come up with just haven't ever focussed on it. Tue, 11 Oct 2011 07:33:17 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_5153 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_5153 Cadaverine Lord! isn't that annoying? I'm in New Zealand and I can't bloody stand it when a NH book completely disregards anything about the SH. They'll conflate deosil with clockwise without realising the sun goes the other way across the sky for us! It's just so thoughtless. Tue, 11 Oct 2011 07:38:09 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_5205 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_5205 Anjirika Hi all! I'm Anjirika. I'm 23 years old and I've been a practising (though not always regularly) greco-roman witch since 2001-ish. Vesta is my patron goddess and I'm bound to throw in a few pagan references in my regency romance novel, though I'm not so such it'll fit. Tue, 11 Oct 2011 08:13:06 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_5563 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_5563 roruna hello everyone, my name is Lorna and I'm a pagan. I (like others in this thread) dedicated on Samhain, ten years ago. I'm a solitary witch (and not as active lately as I should be, maybe...) and I'm from California. In a funny sorta of way, paganism does affect my writing. I don't address it as such but writing does make me feel closer to the Goddess and reading all the different myths out there does give me a lot of inspiration. Tue, 11 Oct 2011 14:23:33 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_11327 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_11327 Rohahnya Thanks for the advice! I always try to take whatever I read with a grain of salt - I like to be open-minded and come to my own conclusions. Tue, 11 Oct 2011 14:51:51 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_11871 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_11871 Aneith Hey. *waves* I'm Aneith (virtual cookies to whoever can figure out why). I'm sort of pagan and the reason I say sort of is because I'm also sort of agnostic and I don't actually follow any particular religion. I believe in the otherworld and I believe in faeries (which I have wider definition than most for). To get into any further detail would be a very long post. It's nice to meet you. Tue, 11 Oct 2011 19:18:44 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_16771 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_16771 Chaoticpi Yay to my pagan people! Shout out what what! :D Pagan since I was 14. Self-initiated self studied and a writer to boot! :D I have a fannish personality (aka fangurl to a lot of things...) Lets get this party STARTED! Tue, 11 Oct 2011 19:25:54 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_16900 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_16900 Cadaverine Is anyone celebrating a holiday at the beginning of November? I have three XP Tue, 11 Oct 2011 21:07:14 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_18953 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_18953 AnnNoE Found the group. Very happy now. I am among friends. Tue, 11 Oct 2011 22:47:41 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_20987 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_20987 Cadaverine Hi AnnNoE! :D I hope so. There are always sooo many arguments and disagreements in Pagan threads, lol... I'd like to keep the frith in this place. Tue, 11 Oct 2011 22:50:29 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_21033 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_21033 AnnNoE I am a tolerant person who believes life is way too short and everyone is entitled to their own peace. There is nothing really worth agruing about. We each believe what we believe. Tue, 11 Oct 2011 23:00:50 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_21207 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_21207 Cadaverine I don't really agree entirely, but there are better places and better times for the airing of grievances than the NaNo forums. As a Heathen, I do occasionally get grief from Pagans who insist everyone should follow their system of morality, "harm none" or some law of return or something. And of course as a Heathen it upsets me when people misuse the sacred and powerful Mysteries that are the runes. So it goes both ways. One tries to keep both frith and honour ;) Tue, 11 Oct 2011 23:04:53 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_21291 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_21291 AnnNoE I have heard of such differences, and I find it sad. I believe no group has the right to impose their beliefs on another or to claim their's is the only way. I left Christianity because of that (among other things). BTW, I am fascinated by the runes and desire to learn more. Any good sources? Tue, 11 Oct 2011 23:12:11 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_21407 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_21407 Cadaverine Oh sure! Diana L. Paxson's "Taking Up the Runes", Stephen Pollington's "Rudiments of Runelore", "Odin's Gateways" by Katie Gerrard. Pollington's book is an essential foil for a lot of books on runes as it refuses to get esoteric. Avoid anything by Ralph Blum or that takes him as any sort of reliable source. I am not personally a fan of Thorson. And of course you need a good grounding in Nordic religion and cultures or you'll stand no chance of understanding them ^_^ You may also want to make overtures to Odin, as he won them for us. It's a LOT of work; learning the runes takes years. Once you've done it once you have to go through again and again to grok them on every level. I genuinely don't understand sometimes why non-Germanic Pagans are even interested in them, given how inherently tied to the cultures they are, and how much effort it takes to learn them. Tue, 11 Oct 2011 23:45:23 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_21915 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_21915 D.F.T.B.A Hey there! I'm a solitary eclectic pagan, living in the Southern Hemisphere (Australia) and also find it annoying when books disregard us completely, though adjusting the sabbat days/times by six months has become second nature to me by now. I'm 18 (19 in November - identifying as pagan since I was 15) and living at home, and while I'm sure my parents know that I identify as pagan and accept me for it, it still makes celebrating the sabbats difficult, especially as I generally have no-one to celebrate with. Anyone have plans for Samhain/Beltaine celebrations? (I think dedicating is a great idea!) Wed, 12 Oct 2011 01:05:40 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_22847 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_22847 Cadaverine Hi DFTBA! I have Walpurgisnacht and Summernights, as well as a beginning-of-summer holiday I haven't found a name for yet. (I don't like to call it Beltaine because it's not related to Celtic religion; it makes me uncomfortable to call it Beltaine. Plus, coming up with holiday names is fun.) I've always found the archaeoastronomy site really helpful for holiday dates: http://www.archaeoastronomy.com/2011.html Wed, 12 Oct 2011 01:10:53 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_22900 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_22900 D.F.T.B.A Sounds like you'll be having a lot of fun! And making up names for things is what we writers do best, isn't it? Thanks! That site is really helpful. Adding it to my book marks. Wed, 12 Oct 2011 01:18:05 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_22982 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_22982 Cadaverine :D Well it's not too much fun because it's just me, lol. Wed, 12 Oct 2011 01:21:32 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_23010 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_23010 Rohahnya What names do you all have for your pets? My kitty is named Widdershins and I'm thinking of putting him in my book - maybe just to have him in there or I may decide to give him an actual part - like when the bad guy tries to kidnap or harm one of my mains. I'm thinking maybe he might be a nice kitty with a good disposition but will express his displeasure with the bad guys and that will tip off to Grandma that something is not right with the guy and she shouldn't trust him. Wed, 12 Oct 2011 02:25:30 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_23517 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_23517 Cadaverine My pets have human names. Wed, 12 Oct 2011 03:52:46 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_24127 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_24127 Sashataakheru Another Aussie pagan here. :) I'm an eclectic Kemetic pagan, and have been on this path for ten years now. I'm writing about the Gods this year, which will be interesting. Amun and Shiva in particular. Wed, 12 Oct 2011 06:48:39 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_25193 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_25193 AdrienEtienne Hello there, I'm a pagan... I know that you're shocked since I'm posting to this thread. ;) I'm in the Seattle area, and I am a very solitary worshiper/practitioner by choice with the very rare exception. I'd probably fit under the "eclectic" label, though my worship/practice is mostly focused on the Vanir of Norse Mythology. Adrien Etienne Wed, 12 Oct 2011 13:19:44 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_29514 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_29514 Cadaverine Does everyone know what they're writing yet? I still haven't got the first clue. Wed, 12 Oct 2011 21:20:40 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_36894 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_36894 Alxa Hailsa! Fancy seeing this thread here. I am a Heathen of the Norse variety. Been practicing 4-5 years now. I was Tamarian and garden variety Pagan before that but feels like I will staying with Heathenry. Wed, 12 Oct 2011 22:47:40 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_38109 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_38109 Cadaverine Welcome Alxa! Ver thu heil! Always good to see another Heathen. I'm personally not region-specific, though I find myself interested in Anglo-Saxon Heathenry. Maybe I'll end up leaning in that direction in the future. I've been a Heathen about as long as you, I think. It was a slow journey here from Norse-leaning eclectic Paganism, so it's hard to be sure! ^_^ Wed, 12 Oct 2011 22:53:07 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_38196 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_38196 Alxa I keep meaning to learn a bit more about Anglo-Saxon but haven't as yet. Too much to learn in the Norse. And to your other question, I am writing a Western this year, my first attempt at one. Wed, 12 Oct 2011 23:24:35 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_38623 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_38623 AnnNoE Thank you for the sources, and I do have a germanic background. Wed, 12 Oct 2011 23:41:00 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_38816 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_38816 Cadaverine Ooooooh a Western! I've never even thought about doing a Western. I do a different genre every year - I don't mean to, it just sort of works out that way - and a Western might be fun to try my hand at. I guess we'll see what pops into my head! Wed, 12 Oct 2011 23:42:33 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_38836 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_38836 Cadaverine Hello everyone, how does planning? Thu, 13 Oct 2011 19:38:14 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_50191 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_50191 Aneith Hello. :) Not well. I am so frustrated right now with all the problems in my plot. I don't even know why I don't just drop it. Maybe because I've been working so hard on it. Thanks for asking. How is your planning going? What is your novel going to be about? Thu, 13 Oct 2011 19:43:29 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_50255 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_50255 Cadaverine Haha, I still have no idea! I'm going to wander around the forums today and jot down some notes and ideas, maybe adopt a character quirk or take a dare or something. I don't think plot problems really matter. They'll sort themselves out as you go along, I think, and if they don't you can always fix 'em in the second draft. Thu, 13 Oct 2011 20:16:20 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_50652 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_50652 Aneith Eh. They're kind of big problems. Sounds like fun. Thu, 13 Oct 2011 20:33:52 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_50850 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_50850 Cadaverine Hmm. Well, there's always your standard "a wizard did it" and "rocks fall, everybody dies" in an emergency. Thu, 13 Oct 2011 20:46:26 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_51019 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_51019 Bad_Ailuros *bounces over* I'm guessing I still fit in here. :) Celtic polytheist, recon when I get in moods, dedicated in 1987, started serious training in 1999/2000. My expertise is on Romani magical systems, though I spent two years studying seiðr. Trying to figure out how to start writing on midnight, November 1st, since I'm pretty sure Samhain is the 2nd this year (don't have my calender, don't quote me) and Hallowe'en is the 31st. Lack of sleep, anyone? Anyway, I'm doing a steampunk novel this year. Airship pirates, Boston greenhorns, and improper Victorian girls, oh my. Thu, 13 Oct 2011 21:03:30 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_51278 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_51278 Cadaverine Archaeoastronomy says it's the 7th this year. Morning or evening depending on where you are. Why seiðr, out of interest? Thu, 13 Oct 2011 21:10:55 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_51396 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_51396 Bad_Ailuros Thank you! At least that gives me more time! I've been freaking out because I have guests coming tomorrow and next week a trip to RI, and haven't had time to look. My math skills aren't the best when I'm cleaning. As for seiðr, I suppose the explanation of "I was weird kid" wouldn't fly, huh? I got really into studying Celtic-Norse syncretism at one point, and developed a thesis that ogham and Futhark were kissing cousins. No one in my family knew anything about runes, so I set out to prove it. This somehow developed into comparing Celtic and Norse traditions of various sorts, and...I rabbit-trailed. Weird kid, I tell you. Thu, 13 Oct 2011 21:17:58 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_51496 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_51496 Bad_Ailuros There's a certain amount of Hinduism in Romani traditions and such, Shaktism is a big deal, so I have a statue of Shakti, called Sati-Sara, as the goddess of fate and leader of the vursitorja. I have a little coin of Vayu, which is kept in my purse so the winds draw money too it, and a little statue of Parvati that belonged to my mother -- that's on my writing desk too. Thu, 13 Oct 2011 21:42:43 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_51807 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_51807 thesnowleopard I'm a...I guess you could call it a "Christian syncretist." I have a strong interesting Siberian and Paleolithic shamanism, which frequently shows up in my writing. The book I'm doing this year is more Occult, but with a twist. Fri, 14 Oct 2011 01:24:39 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_53948 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_53948 thesnowleopard Sorry, "interest" not "interesting." Fri, 14 Oct 2011 01:25:14 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_53952 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_53952 Xiri A self-titled 'neo-pagan' something reporting :) Fri, 14 Oct 2011 14:40:59 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_59730 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_59730 Xiri 'Tis more complicated than that, as I am eclectic etc and find certain Christian etc things nice too, but let's stick with neo-pagan :p Fri, 14 Oct 2011 14:43:13 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_59754 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_59754 Aneith I like your picture. Where's it from? Fri, 14 Oct 2011 16:18:16 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_61107 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_61107 PJ Graham Ditto on these writers. (Though I consider Douglas Monroe's "The 21 Lessons of Merlin" to be among the worst.) For Celtic information, I usually prefer the likes of Alexie Kondratiev's "The Apple Branch" and some older historical stuff, though they aren't as easy to read. Fri, 14 Oct 2011 16:55:13 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_61537 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_61537 Cadaverine That's the advantage of such a vague term! XD Neo-Pagan, Not Otherwise Specified. Fri, 14 Oct 2011 20:49:28 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_64150 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_64150 RainLyte Merry Meet and Blessings. Just popping in to say hello again this year and thank you guys for mentioning the Cauldron Cafe thread. :-) I'm busy this week with a brand new granddaughter but will be in full swing after the 25th. Fri, 14 Oct 2011 22:08:01 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_65113 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_65113 crystel_dream *Waves* Hi there, Another Pagan here. I kind of still style myself as an Eclectic Solitary but I've been particularly drawn to Druidry and Shamanism in recent years (having said that, hearing how low regarded some of the authors mentioned on this thread are and the fact that their work is what I've mostly found and read - especially Conway -, makes me wonder if I'm on the right path or not). Does anyone know of anything like a sort of "trusted authors" list anywhere on the 'net where I might find proper information in this regard please? Re NaNo I have a ghost story planned for this year. Perfect for starting around Samhain. Sat, 15 Oct 2011 18:48:35 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_75064 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_75064 Cadaverine Regarding Shamanism: Basically the term is used two ways. First, it's the name of an otherworld spirit tradition of a particular people (I want to say the Saami...?) in Siberia. Second, it's used anthropologically to describe otherworld spirit traditions in general - which would include such things as hedgewitchery and seiðr and various Native American traditions and African traditions that I don't know the names for. (It is my assumption that most of these groups will have their own terms for their tradition.) At any rate, depending on what particular tradition you find yourself interested in, there may be specific books about it, or you may need to find yourself a teacher. There are also some general books. I found "Exploring Shamanism" by Hillary S. Webb quite good when I read it some years ago - it's quite American-centric but still very interesting. Having said that it's been a while since I read it and it may not live up to my memories of it ;) On Druidry, for me the groups that use the term are so different from one another and from historical use of the word that I'm not even sure what it means. I mean, OBOD and ADF are massively different groups with different beliefs and practices, and they both identify with the term... so I'm unsure what distinguishes the term "druid" from "neo-Pagan". So, what you're looking for there I'm not sure, I wouldn't know what to recommend ;) I'm sure what drew you to the path you're on is the same regardless, even if some of the info has been a bit dodgy. But then... well, I started out as an eclectic Pagan (thought I was Wiccan. Wasn't. Eventually decided I wasn't, and to stop trying to be...), then discovered Heathenry and got further and further into it until I realised I was a Heathen rather than an ENP with an interest in Heathenry. And I've been building my own religious witchcraft for years. Exploring further afield is never a bad thing, especially when it could lead to something wonderful you hadn't known existed. Keep on keeping on - whatever direction you go in. There will ALWAYS be more to learn. My issues with Conway stem mostly from the "Celtic Magic" and "Norse Magic" disasters - her work may have improved since then. Read widely, I suppose is the best advice. And go back to the lore, when relevant. (It's weird, for example, how many people think of Hekate as a crone when she's always presented artistically as a maiden, and called one in Greek texts too.) Sat, 15 Oct 2011 20:25:00 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_76028 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_76028 thesnowleopard Shamanism is a religious system originally identified in Siberia. It's a word from the Tungus people, but there are versions of related shamanistic beliefs all over Siberia. Basically, in shamanism, there is this world and a spirit world,, and spirits can exist in our world, either friendly or unfriendly, and can cause illness by possessing someone. Often, the spirit world is an underworld and then there is a heaven type of place in the sky, as well. The main thing about it is a belief in spirits, and practitioners (shamans) who can interact with the spirits, up to and including controlling them, and engaging in spirit flight and farsight. The way that shamans do this is by self-inducing an altered state of consciousness (usually a trance). In many traditions, what shamans are good at is finding lost things. While there are mainstream theories that shamanism was the original, Paleolithic religious system, that the Siberian version of it is part of a larger circumpolar culture also found in the Saami, Inuit, Eskimos, and Greenlanders; and that features of shamanism can be seen possibly even as late as the Bronze Age in the eastern Mediterranean (for example: Medea); anthropologists are very skeptical of how ubiquitous the term has become. A big problem is that shamanism was "found" and popularised, partly due to a book on it by Mircea Eliade, who conflated all sorts of religious traditions into monomyths, the way Joseph Campbell and James Fraser did (Just as we don't believe that every single pagan god demands human sacrifice, or that every hero's journey is the same in every culture, we also don't believe that every single pagan magicworker is a shaman). Then Carlos Castaneda came along and claimed to find shamanism in northern Mexico (His graduate work later turned out to be fraudulent). Now, a student of Castaneda, Michael Harner, goes around trying to spread his mentor's version of shamanism, even in areas where shamanism already existed and was quite different. There have been complaints that he and his followers are like pagan versions of Christian evangelists, and can be quite destructive to traumatised cultures that are just recovering from decades of persecution (The things the Soviets did to shamans and the indigenous people of Siberia, for example, were really, really horrible). Another problem for theories of shamanism amoung Native American and African cultures is that different belief systems get lumped together and minimised as "shamanism", when they don't follow the usual traditional rules of Siberian shamanism. Every nonwestern pagan magicworker ends up getting labeled a "shaman", whether he/she is or not. I think every Wiccan here can understand why that's a problem. For example, zaar possession in northeastern Africa is often called a form of shamanism, even though, in the original Siberian model, shamans weren't permanently possessed by spirits (i.e. mediums). Instead, Siberian shamans controlled spirits and helped those who suffered from spirit possession. Also, not all magicworkers interact with spirits by entering a trance. If you're looking for a good starting point on the subject, Ronald Hutton's "Shamans: Siberian Spirituality and the Western Imagination" is an excellent start. And yes, I know Hutton is controversial in the pagan community, but he does do his homework and that particular book is very well done. Sun, 16 Oct 2011 02:23:01 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_79358 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_79358 thesnowleopard Thanks! It's the cover to an unrban fantasy novel I cowrote with a friend that is out with Innsmouth Free Press. It's called "Fraterfamilias" and it's the first in an intended series. The main characters are brothers with ties to the Paleolithic (shall we say, without too many spoilers), and they're the two figures on the cover. The one in the rear is a practicing shaman and the one in the front is a painter. The artist is very good. His name is Seth Rowanwood. I met him at the Writers/Illustrators of the Future workshop. Sun, 16 Oct 2011 02:26:36 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_79376 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_79376 Cadaverine He is?! I thought he was well-liked and respected. I'm reading "Pagan Religions of the Ancient British Isles" at the moment. Thanks for the history &amp; info on shamans! :D Very well said! Sun, 16 Oct 2011 06:29:54 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_80399 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_80399 Bad_Ailuros I have a question regarding my actual Nano, but I also think could be fun for discussion here -- where do you think the line is between divination/spiritualism/occultism and magic/witchcraft and both of those and paganism? For example, in my Nano, my FMC, or the closest I get to it, reads Tarot and conducts a seance, but because it's set in a Victorian and Steampunk setting, I wouldn't necessarily call it fantasy because it doesn't pervade the book, or move the plot along in a magical way. However my grandmother, reading the outline dubbed her a witch, while my father didn't think it meant anything at all really. Where do you think the lines are? Sun, 16 Oct 2011 13:16:12 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_83469 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_83469 Aneith Personally, I don't believe in lines, but that may just be me. If someone wants to call it magic, they're right. If someone doesn't, they're right too. I'm a bit of an oddball that way though. Sun, 16 Oct 2011 17:30:25 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_86586 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_86586 Cadaverine I think divination is meant to be one of those sort of defining elements of witchcraft - but honestly, you ask ten witches to define witchcraft and you <em>don't</em> get eleven answers. You get about three answers and those are all very vague, obviously incorrect or totally unsatisfying. Everyone else gets this blank, panicky expression on their face and ends up saying "hmm, good question" or just talks about their own personal craft. Although I think the difference between Paganism and witchcraft is pretty obvious. Paganism is a religious umbrella incorporating, at its most wide and general, every non-Abrahamic religion. Witchcraft is a craft, often spiritual, that can be practised by a person of any religion (so long as that religion does not prohibit said practice). "Occult" is an interesting word... it means "hidden" and would apply, I think, to those spiritual paths that involve a search for wisdom. Particularly mystery religions. Spiritualism would be an occult religion in that sense. Spirit work and communication with the dead are traditionally practices that are strongly related to what we would now call "witchcraft", so a Spiritualist might well be a witch but may well be more Abrahamic than Pagan. Sun, 16 Oct 2011 22:19:44 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_90312 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_90312 Stark_Raven_Mad To Bad_Ailuros, I feel that the biggest difference between witchcraft and paganism (specificaly Wicca, as that is what I know most about) is that Witchcraft is a craft ie, something you do, while a pagan religion is a belief system. The two are often (but not always) found together. I have actually met a few Christians who believe in and practice magic. As a general greeting to the group, Hello my name is Sophie, and I grew up in a very religiously diverse household. My fathers family is Jewish and so we celebrate the Jewish holidays (Hanukkah, Yom Kipor, ect). My mothers side has history of both deeply christian beliefs (and so we celebrate the christian holidays) and native american practices (and so we have grown up respecting the mother earth and all her children). My mother herself is, I suspect, Wiccan, as she has many books pertaining to Wicca. She doesn't really talk about it but she has bought me a number of things (including goddess figures for my room) that lead me to believe that she is happy with my choice of religion, I self initiated two years ago in spring but my understanding of myself, the god, the goddess, and the powers that be have changed greatly since then and I'm seeking out others in my community, hoping to find a coven or just a teacher. Therefore I call myself an eclectic pagan, who is leaning towards Wicca. Apologies for the text heavy post. Mon, 17 Oct 2011 00:42:46 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_91853 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_91853 thesnowleopard @Bad_Ailuros You should probably try reading up on the Spiritualism movement, which was huge during Victorian times until shortly after WWI. The Victorians were quite interested in ghosts and the supernatural, but very skeptical about witchcraft (because the witch crazes didn't really fade until the early 18th century and the Victorians wanted to distance themselves from that), so I doubt they'd call her a witch. They usually called people who held seances "mediums" and those who told fortunes, "fortunetellers". But some reading about the subject might get you some more fun titles. Mon, 17 Oct 2011 05:46:07 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_93394 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_93394 thesnowleopard @Cadaverine I think the main problem is that he is both into the pagan community and a skeptic about a lot of the traditions. So, I guess he has a reputation as a debunker. Personally, I thought his definition of shamanism was a little overly narrow, but also solid and well-researched-enough that you can start with that and broaden out to what works for you. A lot of the stuff about shamanism can get very woo-woo, so it's good to have some solid ground underfoot. And it makes for a good balance to what is still considered the Big Book of Shamanism, Eliade's "Shamanism". It's a bit like, if you want to read about prehistoric anthropology, you still need to read The Golden Bough, even though it's dated now. Eliade's work is like that. Two other good books are Jean Clottes and David Lewis-Williams' "The Shamans of Prehistory" (which is about Paleolithic cave art) and Joseph Campbell's "The Way of All Animal Powers", which goes a lot into the worldwide traditions and the art. Not everyone agrees with the shamanism theory for Paleolithic art. A good person for the other side is Paul Baum in his "Prehistoric Art". Mon, 17 Oct 2011 05:53:27 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_93428 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_93428 MelanieB Happy Pagan here. First time doing NaNo. Been a pagan for 10 years+. Worked in Countryside Managament so learnt a lot from that and it just makes more sense to me! Im not writing a pagan themed book so to speak for this nano, but an Iron Age king story as this is also a speciality. Mon, 17 Oct 2011 07:18:13 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_93875 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_93875 Cadaverine As a historian, of course he should be sceptical. I would be quite horrified if he started accepting claims without enquiring into them! ;) Things that are wrong really do need to be debunked, and if something is challenged with reason to do so, I see no reason to continue to cling to an idea that is outdated and quite probably incorrect. It's a bizarre notion... although I suppose scientists have a habit of doing it too. At any rate I've always felt he was very polite about it all. I think Hutton's overview of palaeolithic art in Europe in "Pagan Religions" sums it up quite nicely... it no doubt had a range of purposes, and choosing just the one is silly and unnecessary. I think Baum had a few mentions. Sometimes I think people forget that people are people everywhere, even a fifty thousand years ago. But I did see something with Lord Robert Winston years ago about patterns on cave walls and patterns seen while in trance states which was interesting. Not a fan of Campbell, though - his over-generalisation makes my teeth itch. Mon, 17 Oct 2011 07:29:34 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_93955 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_93955 WynnDFae I identify as pagan since my faith structure is fairly far removed from the more "mainstream" religions. However, there are some elements that could be considered Catholic in popular origin, despite my never having been Catholic. It's a very personalized system, which is probably why I could only ever identify as pagan. Basically, it revolves around four angelics, with Azrael being the chief figure. With him is Gabriel, Michael, and Lucifer/Samael (name changes depending on what I need him for; Lucifer is more for lust/sex and Samael is love/passion). I have some representations for Isis, Selene, and Bast on my altar and refer to them when necessary, but they're more like supplementary deities. It took me a long, long time to reach this final conclusion, but I feel infinitely happier having arrived at it. I celebrate no major holidays, neither pagan nor mainstream, but instead have a few of my own. They're more like dedication days. No magic is used in my structure, but I do rely heavily on divination in the form of my two Faery Oracle decks. My structure is very, very mixed. Heh. Mon, 17 Oct 2011 08:59:26 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_94585 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_94585 Wisagii-Mahigan Hello there! Nice to meet you all! I’m Abequa, first-time Wrimo if you don't count the camps, 18 years old and involved in Ojibwe (Native American tribe) shamanism. We don't call it that but well, everyone else does. My grandmother is a very traditional woman and taught me when I asked so I guess I've been a pagan for seven years now, though I've only had my life-totem a year ago. As I see people talking about shamanism, I'll add the way I was taught it (which is only one way, I’m not arguing with anyone; I never do): We say there is a spirit for everything, therefore all the spirits exist, if I'm making any sense. Very random exemple: Artemis is a goddess of hunt. Hunt is an existing concept, so a spirit of hunt exists. As there are people who believe this spirit is called Artemis, she exists. Not too confusing? All that to explain why I never argue: because I don’t think there’s a wrong way to do it. We know our tales are just very nice tales. A deer hurting a wolf is probably not the reason why all leaves go red in autumn. Other than that, we receive a birth protection spirit, who is, as the name says, protecting us. I think it differs from one tribe to the other, but in mine it's by month. So my birth-totem is Hawk, for April. There is also the Clan totem, which I don’t know because we don’t live as clans anymore, though maybe reservations have theirs. And there’s the Life-Totem, which you choose or which choose you, depending on how spiritual you want to be. It’s supposed to be the animal you will be like or try to be like all your life, for lack of a better explanation. Historically, people left to the woods until they found it, which is not really possible anymore. Now I was only told to think about it and wait for a sign. Mine was a pretty weak sign, if you think about it. I was hesitating between three and, the same day I just told myself ‘stop thinking and wait, damn it!’, there was a documentary on APTN about coyotes, which was one of my choices. I watched it and decided it was it, hence the icon and my username. ;) Aaaand, now that I’ve added my two cents, I’ll stop rambling! Because I can ramble forever on anything but once started on Ojibwe traditions it’s three times worst. Looking foreward to chat with you all! Mon, 17 Oct 2011 15:03:49 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_98533 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_98533 Aneith Please, by al means, ramble! I don't know about anyone else, but I find this very interesting. I met an Ojibwe man when I was a kid and we talked a bit. (I'm not from the area. That's why I've only met one person. :P) He told me what my name was. :) I've been interested ever since, but never really got a chance to look into the beliefs further. Mon, 17 Oct 2011 17:04:52 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_100339 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_100339 Wisagii-Mahigan (You should be warned: telling me to ramble can be very dangerous. Or let's say time-wasting because I can't actually kill someone by rambling. I think.) Ahaha, we're everywhere! Was is a translation of your name or a Naming rite? I never saw a Naming rite (appart from my own, I guess, but I was about a week old so...) and have NO idea how it's done. I'm not a Midew (I'm far too young and I'm almot sure I'll never be patient enough, to be honest) but I know a thing or two -and enjoy talking about it- so feel free to ask! Mon, 17 Oct 2011 19:57:34 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_102526 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_102526 Cadaverine What <em>do</em> you call it, if I may ask? I know of so few specific terms for it. Mon, 17 Oct 2011 20:08:59 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_102670 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_102670 Wisagii-Mahigan We usualy say 'traditions' or 'teachings' most of the time because we don't really feel the need to call it anything, I think. But the 'proper' word would be Midewiwin, which can means many things, depending on how you see it. ''In the sacred/ceremony'' or ''Way of (spiritual) medecine'' are both good translations -and not the only ones. The one whose clear is how we call our shamans: Midew, Medecine-man. But that's just for Ojibwe nations, I couldn't tell for others. Mon, 17 Oct 2011 20:34:41 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_102993 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_102993 thesnowleopard Hi, Wisagii-Mahigan, I didn't mean that you or others inside the tradition can't talk about "shamans" in the tradition, but more when someone from outside the tradition imposes names and labels, like telling you that a Midewiwin is really a shaman or a witch, or overemphasising one aspect of your tradition over others, especially a minor one. Shamanism isn't a religion so much as a religious system. So, just as you can have monotheistic religions with other aspects (like animism or pantheism), you can have largely shamanistic religions that have other elements, too. And spirits can mean many different things in different cultures. It may be very different in the Ojibwe nations than, say, the Chukchi in Siberia. Too often, lesser-known traditions can be ignored or conflated with the western mainstream. Nalo Hopkinson used to have a very good article on her site about how a soucouyant is not just another name for a vampire or a witch, and calling one that ignores the complexities of Caribbean folklore. @Cadaverine The Way of All Animal Powers actually avoids a lot of Campbell's usual lumping - mainly, I think, because it's a coffee table book with a lot of illustrations. So, he lets the pictures tell the story as much as the words. Clottes et al don't actually claim that all ancient cave art had shamanistic aspects. They acknowledge that there were most likely other uses (like the recently discovered children's illustrations in Spain) for cave art. Baum is very good, but I think he tends to overemphasise the ignorance of those with whom he disagrees. Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:39:57 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_105929 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_105929 Cadaverine Thank you for sharing! :D Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:47:27 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_106000 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_106000 PJ Graham Wow, what a question! I have to agree with Aneith that lines don't work terribly well with these subjects. Divination has been practiced by many religions for centuries – it's been recent decades (in the US anyway) that it has been viewed as less mainstream. There's a ton of folklore about predicting weather, sex of babies, one's future spouse, and so forth. For the other clarifications, I think Cadaverine's done a pretty good job. Tue, 18 Oct 2011 12:21:28 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_110369 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_110369 PJ Graham Welcome, Abequa! And I love the rambling too. Tue, 18 Oct 2011 12:23:21 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_110389 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_110389 Cadaverine Does anyone work with or honour a Muse, or a deity who helps with inspiration and creative things such as NaNo? Tue, 18 Oct 2011 20:55:35 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_117773 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_117773 ravenakasha Hello everyone! I'm eclectic pagan and writing for the first time. I believe I do have a Muse or a goddess whispering in my ear, as it were, because I know these words aren't my own. Sometimes I have to fill in a bit, but mostly it just comes to me from something beyond my grasp, or at least that is how my poetry always was. I haven't written much else, so we'll have to see. Wed, 19 Oct 2011 12:04:59 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_126328 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_126328 Wisagii-Mahigan @Thesnowleopard: I wasn't thinking that's what you were saying. I may not have been clear (very sorry, I sometimes struggle with thinking in French and translating it to English clearly), but I agree with you. The medecine-men aren't really shamans as I understood it, mainly because they don't enter in comunication or such to do their duties most of the time. A good Midew can go all his life without entering a Shaking Tent (were they talk to spirits) for his 'work', though they often do it only to stay in touch with the other world. I personaly just call it shamanism because that's what everybody says and, after a couple of years, you stop wanting to argue. I have no idea what the spirits are in others culture... if you don't mind, could you speak about some you know or point me to websites and books? We mainly tell oraly so I never really thought about searching other traditions on a writen support. @Cadaverine: No... though maybe I'll work something out with the Raven Festival, coming soon. After all, Raven IS the tales-teller. Mh. Thanks for the idea! @ravenakasha: Hello, fellow new-person! :) Wed, 19 Oct 2011 13:17:35 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_127455 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_127455 AnnNoE I find this forum has some of the most interesting discussions. It is actually helping me clarify my position. It appears to me that I am an Eclectic Pagan (since I follow no single pantheon) and a Solitary Witch (since I adhere to no groups with strict Traditions yet I do practice Magik). Thank you all for clearing that up for me. As for the Victorian Age - I would use Medium, Fortune Teller to me denotes Gypsy. Wed, 19 Oct 2011 14:13:06 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_128298 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_128298 PJ Graham No, but it's a good idea. Let's see. To go Greek, probably the best muses for fiction would be Calliope (epic poetry), Melpomene (tragedy), or Thalia (comedy). Some might include the "tenth muse" Sappho (particularly for female writers). To go Celtic, Brighid comes to mind. For Hindu, Sarasvati. I'm sure there's tons more. :) Wed, 19 Oct 2011 15:15:28 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_129348 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_129348 PJ Graham Hi, Raven! Wed, 19 Oct 2011 15:15:49 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_129355 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_129355 Cadaverine That's very gratifying! :D FWIW, too, some people will practise more than one specific religion and more than one pantheon, but they aren't eclectic because they do stay within those religions. Also it's possible to practise a specific religion and have outside practices ^^ Wed, 19 Oct 2011 18:45:01 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_132489 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_132489 Cadaverine Haha omggg the 21 Lessons of Merlin! That one's famous it's so awful. That essay about it is hilarious. Wed, 19 Oct 2011 18:47:07 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_132519 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_132519 Aneith It was just a translation. Still, I thought it was pretty cool. I think I've read about naming rites before though. I'm from an agnostic family, so I didn't have any religious or spiritual things growing up. :P Honestly, anything you want to talk about, I want to hear. I am extremely curious. Wed, 19 Oct 2011 20:13:58 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_133789 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_133789 mutewolf_ Hrm, I think I go here. I've recently started identifying as more Pagan and less Agnostic. My beliefs revolve around animals/elements primarily with a growing interest in sex as worship and learning about myself on other planes using sex and energy exchanges. I don't really have a term for myself....Spiritual Pagan is what I generally say but I don't really know yet. I grew up in Southern US and didn't really bother with exploring my spirituality until I moved so it's only been the last ~10 or so months that I've been looking and examining my beliefs more seriously. Thu, 20 Oct 2011 10:48:44 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_141564 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_141564 Lady Noble I'm seeing my self as an eclectic. So for me that means I'm both Pagan and Christian. That also means I'm choosing parts from both religions. I've always felt it good to celebrate both pagan/wiccan holidays and christian holidays. Actually the holyday i'm celebrite that's christian is just christmas. Thu, 20 Oct 2011 13:26:12 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_143551 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_143551 Cadaverine Plans for the upcoming holidays, guys? Who's celebrating something? Fri, 21 Oct 2011 03:03:40 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_153763 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_153763 Fyreheart I don't have a 'proper muse' but the being I often call my spirit guide also acts as my muse. It was him who pushed me to start writing about 2 years ago. Fri, 21 Oct 2011 03:33:15 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_153900 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_153900 Xiri I'd add Greek Athena (she was all about arts and crafts) and Irish Morrigan (you know what I mean... though in her case more like foretelling). Again, I could be very, very wrong :) Be well, Xiri Fri, 21 Oct 2011 04:24:57 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_154146 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_154146 prairiecrow I'm playing a role in a public Samhain ritual coming up this weekend (way before the actual holiday, but it was the closest night the group in question could find an affordable venue to Samhain itself), and I might be hosting a full moon ritual in November, but other than that my schedule has been cleared for NaNo. Our city's Pagan community will probably put together a public Yule ritual (as it does most years). I'm afraid I'm a very bad Wiccan :) -- I tend to celebrate sabbats/esbats only in groups. I just don't find that solitary practice does much for me anymore. To me, Wiccan ritual serves a social function, allowing me to honor the Gods in the company of my fellow practitioners. When it's just me and the Gods I don't have a whole lot of use for rites unless the occasion requires special focus. Fri, 21 Oct 2011 06:35:08 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_154680 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_154680 Cadaverine I'm one of those people who doesn't think Wicca can be practised alone, so I have to agree with you there ;-) I didn't think it was so much regarding social function, though, but then I'm not an initiate so I suppose I wouldn't really know. (Note to people who might be offended: It's not that I think your practice is in any way less valid or wonderful, I just don't think of it as Wicca.) I need to rename my upcoming summer ritual. I just can't go on calling it "Beltaine". And I have Walpurgisnacht and Summernights. Three rituals in a week... But at least I'm not a Hellenic! :D (My Hellenic friends, I have seen a <em>pared down</em> version of your ritual calendar, and it scares me.) Fri, 21 Oct 2011 08:05:53 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_155181 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_155181 nlriviezzo Greetings! I've been a very eclectic and solitary Pagan for a good 16 years now. I draw from a lot different places - some say that what I have is chaos but it works for me. :) It is nice to connect with other writers of Pagan essence. Fri, 21 Oct 2011 14:12:19 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_159079 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_159079 Writerfangirl Allo! Is there anyone here who follows A Course in Miracles here? I'm a bit interested in them--haven't began studying them yet! I'm working through Marianne Williamson's book at the moment. But is there anyone here who lies by the A Course in Miracles? What about Law of Attraction/ Fri, 21 Oct 2011 19:11:31 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_162760 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_162760 krudyard I discovered my beliefs had a label - pagan, when I was about 23 after reading a Starhawk book. For the first time in my life, I read about my feelings and beliefs which I didn't think anyone else experienced. Today, reading all the above, I discover I'm an eclectic pagan. I don't follow any one path. I tried joining wiccans and druids but I feel uncomfortable in group rituals and ceremonies, so am solitary. I celebrate in my own way in everyday life by appreciating all around me taking time to 'see'. I can identify with the beliefs of buddhists and pantheists and appreciate the beliefs of older civilisations of Native Americans and Aborigines. They all speak to my heart and soul. Fri, 21 Oct 2011 19:25:19 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_162919 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_162919 Cadaverine It looks very Christian-oriented, so not really appealing. Fri, 21 Oct 2011 19:52:02 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_163262 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_163262 Writerfangirl I think that is the language that the writer knows, but it's applicable to any belief system. Just replace the Christian terms with ones that you relate with. Fri, 21 Oct 2011 22:33:34 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_165262 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_165262 Cadaverine It says it is about peace and forgiveness. Those things aren't really important or particularly applicable to my religion. Fri, 21 Oct 2011 22:43:10 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_165374 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_165374 Writerfangirl I think those are the side effects of coming from a place of love. What is your religion? Fri, 21 Oct 2011 23:19:24 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_165807 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_165807 Cadaverine Heathen. I don't really think "coming from a place of love" is in keeping with my religion, or indeed with a few Pagan religions. Fri, 21 Oct 2011 23:23:02 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_165852 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_165852 ravenakasha Hey sweetie! Great seeing you here! :D Iz all happies now!! Fri, 21 Oct 2011 23:29:58 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_165938 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_165938 Writerfangirl Like Germanic neopaganism? I love and want to hug everybody. *L* And I believe good things happen for people who put out positive energy. What I know about ACiM so far works for my path I'm on. Sat, 22 Oct 2011 00:12:26 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_166346 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_166346 Vyctori Not Pagan but I find the believes interesting, figured I'd at least introduce myself instead of lurking :3 Sat, 22 Oct 2011 00:34:45 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_166530 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_166530 muses_daughter Merry Meet! Pagan wrimo here! Hope everyone is geared up and ready, just 10 more days!!! Blessings and peace, Muses Daughter Sat, 22 Oct 2011 00:59:43 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_166710 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_166710 Cadaverine Welcome aboard ^_^ Sat, 22 Oct 2011 01:04:51 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_166748 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_166748 Cadaverine Well yeah, "Heathen" does tend to imply reconstructionist or at least recon-derived, but I still maintain it's technically neo-pagan. ^^ And, fair enough too - it takes all sorts. Sat, 22 Oct 2011 01:05:42 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_166755 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_166755 Writerfangirl Truth be told, I've only heard "Heathen" used in negative connotations. I had to look up information on Wiki. I'd like to talk to more people who are spiritual or religious. Most of my friends are atheists. Sat, 22 Oct 2011 01:45:11 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_167014 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_167014 Cadaverine Hi Muses! I remember you from previous years, good to see you! Sat, 22 Oct 2011 01:45:26 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_167016 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_167016 Cadaverine Most of mine are agnostic, so I know where you're coming from. ^^ Sat, 22 Oct 2011 02:14:02 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_167195 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_167195 Wyrd One more pagan here! NaNoing for the first time in four years, but I've participated twice before. Unfortunately I couldn't finish my story on those two times I've tried (due to my laptop failing me. By the time it got fixed and working again, it was already too late). Figured I'd give it a try again this year. Hoping my laptop can take it! But, it's nice to meet you all. : ) Sat, 22 Oct 2011 06:55:08 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_168300 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_168300 Aneith Me too. I'd like to talk to more people who are spiritual. Unless they're the kind that tell me my beliefs are wrong because they're not their beliefs. *shudder* Met a few of those... Or the ones who think I don't know the basics of mythology. Just because I believe in more than one pantheon, does not mean I don't know they are separate pantheons (according to humans). Er... Sorry for the rant. Sat, 22 Oct 2011 07:58:18 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_168651 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_168651 Vyctori Thankies happy to be aboard ^_^ Sat, 22 Oct 2011 15:27:42 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_173296 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_173296 Writerfangirl One of my good friends is Christian and I've even been with her to her churches before, taken part in service. I see it like I'm a sociologist who is (mostly) observing and praising my idea of god. I've generally felt accepted, but I did make one guy's eyes bug out when I told him that I wasn't Christian. My friend is pretty good about not trying to convert me. She has told me from time to time that I would make an excellent evangelist. I actually like Passion Week. Her church has a prayer labyrinth where one reads scripture, meditates, and lets go of some personal baggage. It's this introspective, engaging, and personal event. Even if Christ is not my guy, I don't believe what I believe in is so different from what Christians believe in, or what anybody else believes in either. It's all the same source, but how we engage it and what we believe in is different. Have you heard of that story that explains religion by using blind monks and an elephant? That's become my take on religion. :) What are your pantheons? Sat, 22 Oct 2011 16:12:11 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_173800 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_173800 Aneith I've had really good experiences with Christians myself. The ones I've met just like sharing. It's the other pagans I've met who can get pushy. (No offence to anyone here and it was no one here.) It would take awhile to explain my beliefs. Sat, 22 Oct 2011 22:33:52 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_178508 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_178508 Kalimama Hey, I'm Kalisara (aka kalimama), Pagan for 14 years, writer for 20 years, mother for 5 years, handfasted wife for 2 years, Pagan business owner for 3 years, Pagan podcaster for 3 years, Pagan ezine writer for 6 mo... crazy for EVER!! :P I dedicated myself on Imbolc, which seems to make me the black sheep... Baaa! I'm an eclectic, Pagan witch (not Wiccan) and sex/chaos magicker happily teaching my kids about Paganism and living the rural life with my Heathen hubby, who wants to go shoot a deer while I'm writing. He forgets we have no freezer space right now, though I would eat that much deer jerky... lol Sun, 23 Oct 2011 01:22:54 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_180027 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_180027 Kalimama We should all buddy-list each other... :D Sun, 23 Oct 2011 01:23:37 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_180033 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_180033 Sashataakheru I do. Personally, I have my three/four (depending on which day I count them) fictional muses who help me write, but I also work with the Greek Elder Muses, the Titan goddesses of music as well. They're the only Divine Muses I work with. Djehuty (Thoth) is also good for writing inspiration, or even for help getting study or academic work done. I've considered asking Ganesha (Hindu) or Wepwawet (Egyptian) for help with writer's block too, since They remove obstacles (Ganesha) and open the way (Wepwawet). Sun, 23 Oct 2011 01:35:13 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_180102 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_180102 Sashataakheru Apart from doing a pregnancy blessing for my SIL, no plans. It's coming up to Beltaine down here in Australia, but I can't find any rituals I like, or find anything I'd like to do. I think I'll just do the pregnancy blessing and maybe just relax a bit. Drink in the sunshine. And see if I can't find a way of writing a Beltaine ritual that isn't ridiculously heteronormative and asks me to connect with my reproductive organs. ...Though now that I think about it, I might do something for my Muses as maybe a different take on the holiday. Hmm. *ponders* Sun, 23 Oct 2011 01:38:55 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_180126 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_180126 Cadaverine There are usually Christian holidays held at a similar time to, and sharing cultural similarities with, some Pagan holidays. You could celebrate All Hallows instead. I am just curious... Sun, 23 Oct 2011 07:07:51 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_181730 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_181730 Writerfangirl Who really might just be atheists. According to Penn Jillette, there are two different questions going on. If you ask an agnostic if they believe in God, they can't answer "I don't know." It's either yes or no. And with being agnostics, it would probably be no. I'm interested in picking up his new book. He's definitely my favorite atheist. Sun, 23 Oct 2011 15:02:26 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_186284 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_186284 Mudge the Expendable Another solitary Samhain dedicatee here. I did so in 1980. Not including any Pagan/Heathen elements in my novel about Italian opera composer and librettist boyfriend, though, since it was 18thC Vienna...not a spiritual hotbed, then at least, no idea about now. Sun, 23 Oct 2011 16:11:15 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_187141 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_187141 Alxa I refer to myself as Heathen since Asatru to me applies exclusivity to the Aesir, while I have interests amoung the Asa, Vans and Jotuns. And amoung my kin, Heathens don't consider themselves Pagans. Mon, 24 Oct 2011 17:03:01 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_203902 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_203902 cartweel Hola! I've been involved in various Pagan things since about 2001. I'm the Spiritual Adviser for Pagans at the University of Chicago, and am involved in Greek and Roman reconstructionism. Also, I've led workshops and rituals at a bunch of festivals throughout the Midwest. I'm working on a masters degree and am studying New Religious Movements including Paganism, the New Age, contemporary Occultism, and related topics. Mon, 24 Oct 2011 23:00:44 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_209720 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_209720 mystickelf Hi Everyone :) Pagan (since 1983) and doing Nano again this year. I have been a solitary Pagan all these years and only contact with other Pagans has been through writing (back before computers ha) and on the Internet. I'm just kind of a quiet Pagan..I don't have fancy tools or anything (except for some oracle decks) and I just love to follow the seasons and I'm eclectic in my Gods/Goddesses. Anyways, looking forward to hanging out with you all as we do the Nano :) Wed, 26 Oct 2011 08:45:19 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_228741 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_228741 Cadaverine Only a few days to go now! Is everyone ready?? Wed, 26 Oct 2011 21:52:58 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_241110 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_241110 muses_daughter Thanks! I'm glad you got this thread started! It's great to be back again! BB Muses Daughter Wed, 26 Oct 2011 22:10:50 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_241384 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_241384 pkmnnerdfighter Hello! Kemetic Orthodox (an Egyptian recon) here! Trying to decide right now if my novel will be about my gods or a pantheon I create... Thu, 27 Oct 2011 00:17:09 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_242920 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_242920 writer_me Sorry that it's taken me a while to reply but thank you so much. I've been looking into, what I've been led to believe are, the Celtic and Native American Shamanism paths rather than the Siberian Shamanism path. (And I have to admit I didn't realise it stretched as far as Africa too. I thought that was Voodun, a different path/religion altogether to Shamanism.) I'll check that book out too, thank you :D. Thu, 27 Oct 2011 10:06:43 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_247192 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_247192 writer_me Brilliant! Thank you so much. Re Shamanism yes I've been reading around the subject focusing on Celtic and Native American Shamanic paths (as those were the most easily accessible literature that I've found - most bookshops stock books on those two, especially from Llewellyn publishers, although I haven't read either of those Conway books you mention). I'll carry on looking in my local bookstore and see what they have. Re Druidry I guess I really should use the term Neo-Druidry as that is a more accurate term for what I'm interested in. I have heard of OBOD and ADF but their courses are quite expensive so I'm loath to sign up to either at the moment. I think it's back to the 'net to look for books on those too. Thank you again :D. Thu, 27 Oct 2011 10:21:08 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_247388 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_247388 crystel_dream Oops sorry. Was logged in to someone else's account. That above comment was meant to be by me. Thu, 27 Oct 2011 10:30:15 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_247504 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_247504 crystel_dream Oops sorry. Was logged in to someone else's account. That above comment was meant to be by me. Thu, 27 Oct 2011 10:31:10 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_247517 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_247517 Cadaverine Finally, we can add buddies again! Fri, 28 Oct 2011 20:47:00 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_273052 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_273052 Aneith Hi! Which gods do you follow? Fri, 28 Oct 2011 22:09:49 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_274251 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_274251 TheLiteraryMaiden Hiya, I'm Sarah and I've been Pagan all my life (my mom is too). I don't align myself to any established religion or idea of worship- I believe that I should pray and worship the way I want to, rather than adhere to the rules of others. Besides, Pagan/Celtic religions have been about nothing if not freedom and liberation. But I still love and worship the Mother Goddess, and live by the "harm none" rule. I sometimes feel tempted to wish ill onto others- like the guy in the apartment beneath me who won't stop smoking outside my windows- but I guess the bad karma isn't worth it (I believe that energy you send out cycles back to you). There's always a price and reward where magic is involved). But It's nice to meet some other Pagan writers. I'm not incorporating religion into my work this time, but my next project will have some magical/supernatural themes. Sat, 29 Oct 2011 23:14:12 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_290909 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_290909 pkmnnerdfighter Recently, Ptah and Djehuty have gotten a lot of my time, although Sekhmet-Hethert also receives a great deal of my prayers. I follow a lot of gods, but they're just who I'm working with currently. Sat, 29 Oct 2011 23:56:29 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_291558 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_291558 flightlesskiwi Hi, I'm a hellenic polytheist living in New Zealand. This year is my first time doing NaNo. My beliefs partly influence my novel, as it is inspired by greek mythology. This group really is a great idea. Sun, 30 Oct 2011 02:01:33 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_292868 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_292868 Cadaverine Hello countryman! :D (Woman?) Are your practices reconstructionist in nature, or derived thereof? Sun, 30 Oct 2011 03:03:49 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_293350 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_293350 flightlesskiwi My practices are derived from reconstruction but are not strictly recon. I mainly focus on honouring all the theoi but do not celebrate all the festivals (at least not so far). I'm still pretty new to Hellenic Polytheism, so I'm still trying out new things. It's nice to meet someone from NZ here. Sun, 30 Oct 2011 03:38:23 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_293598 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_293598 flightlesskiwi I'm a woman btw :-) Sun, 30 Oct 2011 03:39:33 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_293606 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_293606 Cadaverine Well I don't blame you, the festival calendar is jam-packed and it's hard to be sure when things are celebrated, both because of the different month system and for us in the southern hemisphere. Sun, 30 Oct 2011 03:47:44 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_293670 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_293670 unicawn Merry meet, I'm a hedge Pagan with druidic leanings. Sun, 30 Oct 2011 16:02:15 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_303457 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_303457 Cadaverine People keep commenting and then I can't find where they've posted! XD It gets lost somewhere in the thread. Sun, 30 Oct 2011 21:20:42 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_310659 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_310659 Companion Cube After almost half a year of religious confusion and research, I've generally concluded that I am an eclectic pagan going to a very sheltered, mostly white middle class Christian school right in the bible belt. Many of them don't even know paganism is real. Oy. the short of it all is I'm a semi-closeted newbie, and after how long it took to find my start I'm looking up all I can to really find where my journey goes from there. Sun, 30 Oct 2011 23:23:09 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_313618 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_313618 Cadaverine Hi there! Welcome to the thread! Do you know what sort of direction you'd like to go in at the moment, or are you sort of exploring all your options? Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:06:09 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_314388 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_314388 Companion Cube I guess I have narrowed the sum of my beliefs to three basic principles 1) I don't believe in sin/damnation. Life and rebirth is a constant state of progressive spiritual learning. 2) I believe religion is a very personal thing that is unique to every individual. No afterlife is the "right" one because they are all just different roads for the same peaceful intentions. (That being said, I think every belief should at least have no intent of harm, otherwise it is just an excuse to cause trouble in the world.) 3) I personally like to apply the use of nature and personal study to seek answers and help.I like the Wiccan saying, "an it harm none, do what ye will," as well as the rule of three. Collectively yes, these are all very generic to just overall pagan(though partially Wiccan) beliefs, hence I label as eclectic~ Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:24:08 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_314648 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_314648 Cadaverine I agree with you on the first 2 and the first half of number 3 ^_^ I don't have much time for the rede and I don't believe in the rule of 3, but otherwise you and I are of a mind. ^_^ Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:39:45 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_314853 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_314853 flightlesskiwi yes, it can be so hard to work out when to celebrate some festivals (in my case the hellenic ones) because there hardly appears to be information about when to celebrate them in the southern hemisphere. Mon, 31 Oct 2011 01:22:24 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_315371 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_315371 Cadaverine Yeah. I mean apart from the monthly ones that you do on a particular day after the new moon, I just sort of took a look at it and decided it was way too complicated. I mean, which ones should be flipped and which ones should stay where they are...? Mon, 31 Oct 2011 02:21:24 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_315946 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_315946 CrystalWriter Hello, Aileen here. Been a practising Wiccan for 5yrs, but have felt a pull to the belief for awhile before that Mon, 31 Oct 2011 02:42:05 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_316128 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_316128 Lady Noble Let's just say I follow my heart. THat's the strongest spirit in me. Tue, 01 Nov 2011 02:56:53 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_345638 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_345638 TheDragonTempest Hi, I'm Wendy. I practice Celtic Eclectic Witchcraft. I grew up Pagan in an all Christian family. I'm a rebel writing NF/Religion and Spirituality/Witchcraft. It's nice to see so many Pagans here. Please feel free to add me as a buddy. Tue, 01 Nov 2011 18:27:54 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_367973 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_367973 TheDragonTempest Funny you should mention Morrighan, she is my matron and my muse. Tue, 01 Nov 2011 19:13:08 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_369526 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_369526 Aneith Cool. :) I feel connected to Anat and Neith mostly, but also Set, Sobek, and Sekhmet-Hethert. Wed, 02 Nov 2011 16:51:25 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_402789 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_402789 Cadaverine I've always felt a particular fascination with Anpu. As a Heathen I feel a bit out of water when it comes to Kemetic recon, so I haven't pursued anything very much at this point. Along those lines - are there any books or websites you would recommend? Wed, 02 Nov 2011 21:04:30 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_412239 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_412239 Cadaverine How's everyone's novels going? I have an aspect of Otherworld spirituality in mine that I'm trying to work in early on so that when the main character starts talking to the Ancestors it doesn't seem like it's way out of left field. XD Wed, 02 Nov 2011 21:05:28 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_412261 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_412261 DoveSong_13 Hi, all! An eclectic pagan here, hailing from the North Eastern US. It's really great to be able to see that I'm not the only one.... While my community is not exactly religiously oriented, I am rather isolated in my beliefs, so it's nice to be able to connect online, especially for something like this, in a community that isn't based on religion, but where we just happen to have it in common. Good luck on the novels! Blessings, Dove Wed, 02 Nov 2011 22:39:02 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_415527 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_415527 YamiNoKo Well let me start off by saying hi. I'm kind of a newbie Pagan. Been calling myself Pagan for about 10-11 months now. Can't remember exactly when I started identifying as a Kemetic. I only just found out about NaNo on the 1st so I'm strambling trying to figure out what all I need and trying to figure out what I'm going to write. I have a couple ideas floating around and I'm actually glad that I heard about this. Wed, 02 Nov 2011 23:44:01 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_417441 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_417441 Sashataakheru Oh, hey, another who likes Sobek. :) He's pretty awesome. Not many work with Him in my experience. Thu, 03 Nov 2011 02:04:59 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_420400 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_420400 muses_daughter So great to see all the Pagan writers here! Anyone else in a Pagan writers group in your area? I've really benefitted from my group. Any writer's group is encouraging, but I really enjoy sharing with folks of a like mind. Muses Daughter Thu, 03 Nov 2011 06:22:52 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_423432 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_423432 CassyDK So awesome to stumble across this thread. Hello, I am Cassandra and I have been a pagan pretty much since I was born. My mother was a druidic pagan, but kept it very low-key because my father was a devout catholic. I had many years of juggling both religions until I was 18 and both my parents had died. I worship a great variety of different gods from the Norse to Indian pantheon. I have an alter dedicated to Shiva and Ganesh, but also to Bath and various catgods like Freya. I received my High Priestess Initiation last year and I am on the verge of putting together a new coven. I like doing rituals with others, but usually keep my scrying to myself. I am a medium, trying to become more active again after a few years of university stress. Although my story does deal with paranormal activities and the FMC is a witch, I would not say my book is particularly religous or pagan in anyway. Thu, 03 Nov 2011 08:36:43 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_425621 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_425621 TheDragonTempest Well, NF one is going great, I'm at 22,484. I decided I had to do the YA fantasy novel that's been floating around in my head for a few years now as well. I'm at about 1,700 on that one. Thu, 03 Nov 2011 09:35:02 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_426965 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_426965 YamiNoKo I'm scared of a good number of Pagans that I've met in my area. And the Pagans I do trust don't write. So I'm kinda alone in that area. Thu, 03 Nov 2011 10:07:02 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_427719 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_427719 Sousamaphone Hey hey hey! ...Thats me! *points* Thu, 03 Nov 2011 14:30:21 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_434776 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_434776 Sousamaphone Why are you scared of them? Thu, 03 Nov 2011 14:35:51 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_434943 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_434943 YamiNoKo Their lack of knowledge and/or a bs detector. Plus the fact that there was one that acted like I didn't know anything because she was older than I was and "lived all over the world". I'd just rather not deal with them if they're going to act like I don't know anything when I've probably learned more than they have in the small amount of time that I've been calling myself a Pagan. Yes that's probably a bold thing to say on my part but when you get shot down before you can even state your side of the argument tends to rub me the wrong way and that's all they did. Thu, 03 Nov 2011 15:03:44 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_435849 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_435849 Sousamaphone Fair enough my friend. And the way i have seen things, people who act like that do so to cover up their own insecurities and lack of knowledge. It is probably not a far reach to say you know more then they do. Thu, 03 Nov 2011 23:02:41 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_451049 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_451049 YamiNoKo People should just be happy with what they have. Yeah I do wish I had more but I'm thankful for what I have. I don't like it when people feel that they know everything because in all reality a person can't know everything. But now I'm just starting to ramble. Fri, 04 Nov 2011 11:31:12 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_463050 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_463050 schweinsty Hi! I'm a complete newb Pagan - I was an atheist until a few months ago, when I had an experience I could only describe as 'Freya'. I'm still a bit agnostic and am trying to find my path (I feel an 'interest' of sorts in Freya, Brighid, and St. Dymphna, so it's pretty eclectic so far) and work out how it fits into my life, but it's great to see so many other Pagan wrimos :). Fri, 04 Nov 2011 13:48:30 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_466173 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_466173 pkmnnerdfighter Red Land, Black Land: Daily Life in Ancient Egypt by Barbara Mertz. Does right what it says on the tin. The Ancient Egyptian Prayerbook by Tamara L. Siuda is an excellent resource for basic information on the major Netjeru and contains her translations of many amazing prayers and rites. It does contain some KO specific works, but Rev. Siuda is an Egyptologist in addition to her spiritual work, and a fantastic translator at that. Even the better translators leave a bit of a stale aftertaste in their readings, but hers flow. Probably because she's one of few professional Egyptologists who believe in the gods. Fri, 04 Nov 2011 16:35:56 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_470963 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_470963 Cadaverine Hi Schweinsty! :D If you're ever interested in some book recs or info regarding Norse Paganism, shoot me a PM. Fri, 04 Nov 2011 20:59:45 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_477619 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_477619 KamikazeNovElist Hi! I'm a cultor of the Religio Romana, Nova Roman variant. Sat, 05 Nov 2011 18:39:03 -0500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_503850 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_503850 TribalCat Hello, all! I'm a Solitary Shamanic Witch (not a shaman!) of the White Lotus Path. I dedicated and was initiated into an eclectic traditional Wiccan coven 23 years ago (how time flies!). I was with the coven for five years until it disbanded and have been working as a Solitary ever since. My path has evolved, and I now practice Shamanic Witchcraft. This is my first attempt at NaNoWriMo, and I'm having a good time, although it is a struggle sometimes (like right now, when I should be writing but am procrastinating!) My novel isn't a Craft story, but there are spiritual aspects to it (herb and candle lore, etc.), and Freyja, whom I've never worked with before, has shown up in a big way to affect not only my story, but my life as well (YAY!), and I'm thrilled about that. It's time for me to introduce myself to the Norse pantheon. My Norwegian Viking ancestors have been calling me lately. It's nice to meet you all and good luck with your writing! Sun, 06 Nov 2011 06:05:00 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_518187 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_518187 Cadaverine How can a coven be "eclectic traditional"? It's Trad Wicca or it isn't, surely. Sun, 06 Nov 2011 19:45:11 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_537115 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_537115 TribalCat Traditional with a little "t". It was several hivings away from a Brit Trad (big T) coven, and because of the changes that had been made in practice since that time and during our own time, we considered it eclectic. Traditional (again, little "t"), because we practiced a continual dedication and initiation system from HPS and HP to the other coven members and from our parent and grandparent covens. I hope I explained that clearly. Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:56:10 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_544307 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_544307 Cadaverine Oh, I see ^_^ Mon, 07 Nov 2011 05:23:44 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_546653 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_546653 Panoptikum Hey guys. I'm Jezz and I live in the UK. I've been Pagan for about 10+ years now and after a lot of research and searching I lean more towards the Hellenistic path and pantheon. Not solely recon, seeing as people tend to frown on you sacrificing bulls to Zeus nowadays. My novel isn't pagan related but I'm a sucker for fantasy fiction. Wed, 09 Nov 2011 04:52:49 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_595043 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_595043 Bdoing Except for location in the world, I could almost have written this word for word! Thu, 10 Nov 2011 23:02:31 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_633019 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_633019 Bdoing ...I actually did not realize that the sun went the other way around the sky in the Southern Hemisphere! Thu, 10 Nov 2011 23:03:47 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_633044 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_633044 Henrikke Hey guys, I'm Norwegian and pagan, I see there are a lot of people here. I mainly wanted to ask if anyone would be interested in a "online friend", someone to chat with, adding me to their Skype, or MSN, Yahoo or Google chat? Or even a penpal ;-) I'm looking for pagans because, I hope, we understand eachother. Send me a nanomail if you're interested =) Mon, 14 Nov 2011 13:52:58 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_694692 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_694692 Cadaverine Hello Henrikke! I don't have any of the above, but I am on twitter ;-) Mon, 14 Nov 2011 20:23:25 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_700816 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_700816 the_lucy_program Oh man. Honestly, you can find any reason why one holiday "is good" or "isn't good" for dedication. I've heard that self-dedication is best at Samhain, at Yule, at Litha, at Beltane, on a full moon, on a new moon, and everything in between. It's all absolutely superfluous. The gods don't care when you dedicate, only that you do. When you feel it's the right time, then it's the right time. Witches don't make a witch; the gods make a witch. At least, that's how I feel. Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:25:35 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_704629 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_704629 Henrikke Hi, I don't use Twitter... But maybe others here do? Tue, 15 Nov 2011 03:18:09 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_705779 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_705779 YamiNoKo I have Skype and Yahoo. But I don't use Yahoo much anymore. Tue, 15 Nov 2011 11:32:17 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_709793 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_709793 unicawn Celtic xtianity was formed very early on when the pagan europeans took christianity into its own activities and rites. To counteract this Monks, such as Boniface, around 6th century, were sent out from the early vatican and told to convert the pagans. Boniface showed his god was stronger than the pagan gods by cutting down the trees that grew in the pagan temples. Tue, 15 Nov 2011 12:51:26 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_710825 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_710825 unicawn Nor me, I mean the earth spins one revolution per day, and it does a circle around the sun in a year. The bottom of the earth, south, goes in the same direction as the top, so I can't get my head round the sun going in a different direction unless, because the orbit of the earth is in line with the sun at the level of the equator, those in the south look up, whereas we in the north look down on it? Tue, 15 Nov 2011 12:56:49 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_710903 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_710903 Henrikke I'll send you a Nanomail, YamiNoKo. I have to admit I'm logging in to Yahoo less and less. I didn't say much about myself I realized. I've turned 30 this year, and realized that all actors on tv are younger than me, that was a bit of a nasty moment. I've been searching for paganism since I was 11 and among other things, began believing in reincarnation and I felt strongly that God had to be a woman. I didn't find out about paganism until I was 19, and found a name for myself and that there were others like me. It was like coming home, and finding it was warm and filled with others =) Tue, 15 Nov 2011 14:15:54 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_712000 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_712000 unicawn I did ask (spirit) about a muse and now when I walk in nature, I come over all poetical and sing a lot about trees and beauty and gratitude ditties! This could of course be Awen and not a muse. Tue, 15 Nov 2011 16:32:56 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_714376 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_714376 unicawn I'm a pagan, druid and practise journey techniques I learned in a shamanic practise group about 15 years ago. OK, I know there are those who think such practise is only for those born into the tradition or those who learn from such but spirit cannot be owned, surely, and how else can one enter the inner pathways and learn, if those options are not available, but to read a book or something that gives one an idea and to try it for the self. The good thing is it works, well for me anyway. I think a lot of pagan practise will be similar, whatever the nomenclature. Where else can one learn but on the inner pathways and who else can one learn from but spirit, whether spirit is represented as anima, human form guide, tree spirit or goddess etc. Tue, 15 Nov 2011 16:34:44 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_714409 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=2#forum_thread_comment_714409 Cadaverine What Pagan religion do you follow, Henrikke? Tue, 15 Nov 2011 21:03:40 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_717815 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_717815 Cadaverine Horrible things. And this sort of thing still goes on! There are poor people whose shops and herms are desecrated even now. We can only hope that people become more understanding and learn to respect the holy places of others. Tue, 15 Nov 2011 21:05:14 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_717826 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_717826 Cadaverine That's more or less how it works. The sun is in the northern half of the sky, so moving from east to west, it appears to be travelling anticlockwise. Tue, 15 Nov 2011 21:06:18 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_717839 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_717839 Henrikke I belive in Wicca, but I am not inititated into a traditian. So it depends on how you view it, some would say it's fine and I'm a Wiccan no problem, others could think you need to belong to a traditition. That's why I really just prefer to say that I'm a pagan, and it's the term that fits to closest to me so far. It also gives me a bit of space to do what I feel is right =) Wed, 16 Nov 2011 02:27:08 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_721757 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_721757 unicawn That is beautifully said Krudyard. I can identify with much of that and enjoy the path from that perspective. I do think, on a practical level that the Earth needs respect and gratitude and for that reason I end up feeling angry with monotheistic type religious folk who have no respect for the Mother planet that they walk on or bomb in the name of their godhead. It is a pleasant thing to meet a pagan or two on here and read of different people's idea of paganism, whatever they call it, it is also heartening that so many are finding an earth consciousness. Wed, 16 Nov 2011 06:26:49 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_722921 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_722921 unicawn Thoroughly nice to meet you, I am glad you're communicating paganism to the world. Wed, 16 Nov 2011 06:29:42 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_722949 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=3#forum_thread_comment_722949 Cadaverine I disagree. There are plenty of atheist witches. Gods don't necessarily have much of anything to do with witchcraft, and I say this as a religious witch. Wed, 16 Nov 2011 08:55:10 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_724186 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_724186 Cadaverine Always better to take that stance than to try to shoehorn yourself into a title that doesn't fit ;) A friend of mine who is an initiate recommends the term "Wicca-flavoured" for eclectic Paganism that takes a lot of inspiration from Gardner's religion. Wed, 16 Nov 2011 08:56:50 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_724205 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_724205 Henrikke Yeah, and I see why. I sometimes say I'm heavily influenced by Wicca, or that I'm inspired by Wicca. I would like to find a Wiccan tradition that speaks to me, and get the company of a coven, it's just proven to be hard to come by. Which is why in my earlier post I searched for Skype buddies. I know there are NaNo Skype groups. Would anyone be interested in a pagan Skype group? Thu, 17 Nov 2011 05:48:52 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_738241 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_738241 Cadaverine Lots of Heathen groups in Norway, I imagine. If you're looking for Wiccan groups, there's a Yahoo group called "Amber and Jet" that can help you get in touch with a Wicca coven. Share your general area and if anyone there knows of a coven they might be able to email you and point you towards one. Thu, 17 Nov 2011 05:56:25 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_738276 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_738276 tree of a different color Hello all. I am a rather new pagan I suppose. I pretty much know what I am and I have been trying to find the name for it if there is one at all really. I would not consider myself Wicca really all. Honestly the best I have come with so far is "Pantheistic Pagan" haha. I am trying to work it out. Thu, 17 Nov 2011 07:09:33 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_738755 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_738755 Aneith I have skype and facebook. Other than that, I can download msn no problem. Thu, 17 Nov 2011 15:07:48 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_743803 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_743803 Aneith May I ask what you mean by Pantheistic Pagan? (Just curious.) Thu, 17 Nov 2011 15:10:45 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_743831 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_743831 muses_daughter Hi Henrikke, You could also try looking at local Pagan and Wiccan meet-ups, and check out witchvox.com to see if there's anything listed in your area. Another outlet is to check out the classes offered in local metaphysical stores. Frequently they are sponsored by established groups and you'd have a chance to check out their vibe. Sometimes local Unitarian Universalist congregations sponsor open full moon celebrations and you might meet people of a like mind there. Best of luck in your quest, and may the goddess and gods guide you. Blessings, Muses Daughter Thu, 17 Nov 2011 21:21:01 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_748473 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_748473 muses_daughter Oh Henrikke! I didn't read far enough back to see that you are in Norway. Something like this might be more helpful to you: http://www.wiccantogether.com/group/wiccanorway Bright blessings, and good luck. Muses Daughter Thu, 17 Nov 2011 21:23:48 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_748504 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_748504 tree of a different color Oh my. I will try. I find it really hard to communicate what I am meaning to say in words so I will try my best. Pantheism is pretty much the belief that nature (universe) and god are the same. The word basically means "all god" so everything is divine. So I see it as there is not a god in the sense of say the Christian god, etc but that our universe, me, you, and everything else is divine. I believe in Earth, Moon and Sun and if I had a trinity that would be it for sure. I do not know if that helped and I do not really know what else to say haha. I suppose if you have any questions you can message me or leave it here and I will do my best to better explain. I feel the need to use both terms to describe myself and place myself in something even if I do not exactly fit the label. Oh! If you want you can just write pantheistic pagan in google and the first couple of links are helpful! Fri, 18 Nov 2011 00:53:22 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_750520 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_750520 Aneith Ah I see. :) Cool. Fri, 18 Nov 2011 23:39:11 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_762455 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_762455 Cadaverine Ugh! Every day I'm inching closer to the word count I'm meant to be on, but I do much of my writing late at night, so as soon as I get going it ticks over and I'm a day further behind again! XP it's so frustrating! Oh well. Sat, 19 Nov 2011 04:54:06 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_764362 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_764362 Vyctori I really fell behind I'm like 6k behind right now Sat, 19 Nov 2011 15:06:32 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_769319 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_769319 tree of a different color Did that make sense? Haha. Sat, 19 Nov 2011 23:08:26 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_775215 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_775215 Aneith It did. I was just confused by the word "pantheistic" since it sounds like "pantheon." Mon, 21 Nov 2011 11:38:08 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_792810 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_792810 Cadaverine From the Greek "pan", all, and "theos", god. Different meaning but gleaned from the same root words ;) Tue, 22 Nov 2011 02:07:44 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_802045 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_802045 the_lucy_program Hm, perhaps I just meant under the context of Wicca. I forget sometimes that some witches do not believe in anything, haha. Tue, 22 Nov 2011 13:28:49 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_806311 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=1#forum_thread_comment_806311 EvaJupiterSkies Gods, how did I not find this thread earlier? Oh wait... I don't typically stalk the non-regional forums, hehe. I'm Eva. I've been Pagan for 6 or so years now, although it was incredibly eclectic and loose until A) I came to college (my hometown = small, Christian, conservative; I didn't come out of the broom closet until my senior year of high school, the end of the year, cause I knew at that point, I was out of there.) and B) Until my last birthday ritual I had. I'm a Yule baby, and I decided to have a joint Yule/birthday ritual that night, and lo and behold, I had Apollo waltz into my meditation and thanks portion, and everything I've ever been interested in ever went "A-ha!" and clicked into place. These days, my patrons are Apollo and his sister Artemis, who came to me in a meditation earlier this school year. I'm secretary of MSU's eclectic pagan network, Green Spiral. I work a lot with stones and crystals (I have 137 or so varieties and counting!), the elements, and tarot. My boyfriend is Asatru, strongly tied to Thor, Skadi, and Odin. He works heavily with the runes. I adore him immensely. He also looks a bit Thor-esque (long flowing curly red hair, red beard, built like a tank; no green eyes though, hehe). My novel this year was loosely Pagan themed, although the plot bunnies threw me some Christian twists. My MC died, and at her funeral, she heard everyone saying she was "in Heaven" now. She never was really religious on Earth, and had no firm belief in Heaven or Hell, but an angel comes to her and offers her a chance to pass through the 21 tests, to see how high she can ascend in Heaven. She is the Fool, and the 21 tests are the Major Arcana of a tarot deck. The tests are broken down in to 3 levels of 7; the mastery of self, the mastery of the virtues, and the mastery of the universal. She gains a set of wings for each level she passes, and can stop at any level she wishes; if she fails while between levels, she falls to Hell as a fallen angel. If she passes all 21 tests, she is a seraph, and watches over Earth and its people, something important to her, as she left her best friend she truly loves behind on Earth, mourning her. Christianity worked it's way in too; my Hierophant is reveals he is Moses, and also that the World, God (known here as Gaia) is actually a woman. It was an interesting little plot twist. I have to write more of how Lyria's meeting with Gaia goes at the end; while I'm at 50K, I am not done with the plot just yet. Anyways, I've blabbed enough. :) Just wandering through to say hey, really. And may everyone have a glorious Thanksgiving! ^_^ Tue, 22 Nov 2011 15:19:09 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_807680 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_807680 EvaJupiterSkies You posted this forever ago, I know. But I'd just like to thank you for your work as a spiritual adviser. I'm part of MSU's college pagan group, Green Spiral, and adviser's are a great source of information, inspiration, and guidance, for both new pagans, and pagans who haven't had a lot of contact with other pagans besides internet. As one who fell in the latter category upon reaching college, I know I'm incredibly thankful for Green Spiral's advisers for helping me find people and events that helped me feel truly happy and open with where I am spiritually. In summation... thank you for being awesome! :) Tue, 22 Nov 2011 15:27:41 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_807799 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=4#forum_thread_comment_807799 Thanis_Voyant Hi, I've been a witch in the Reclaiming Traditon for over 10 years, I love mixing witchcraft with shamanism and reiki. I'm currently writing pagan fiction. I've started trying to write something like Phil Rickman's Merrily Watkins-Series but without the christian themes ;-), but now it looks more like a pagan fantasy novel and I can't decide whether I want to delete the "fantasy" elements or not... Fri, 25 Nov 2011 10:23:26 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_840500 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_840500 unicawn I'd get to 50000 and then decide, if it was me. I'm a bit in the same boat, I have to finish it before I take a long hard look at it. Mine has taken itself into the spiritual genre, leaving me behind it. Sat, 26 Nov 2011 10:38:06 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_851723 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_851723 Cadaverine Anyone still around? Wed, 14 Dec 2011 03:10:22 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_971862 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_971862 YamiNoKo I am but you know where else to find me :P Wed, 14 Dec 2011 14:32:04 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_972875 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_972875 tree of a different color I am...here and there. Wed, 14 Dec 2011 22:21:52 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_974308 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_974308 SemelVivis Possibly a bit late and you won't see it, but I'd pay money to read that, it looks amazing! Mon, 09 Jan 2012 13:26:03 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_1044545 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_1044545 SemelVivis Hi everyone! My name is Aspasia, I am 21 and I am Greek. I enjoyed reading about your beliefs, so I took the courage to write mine as well. After an abusive, dead end relationship I broke up with Christianism from the young age of eight. Our school curriculum has obligatory Religious (read Christianic) classes every year from nursery to high school, where we learn about (amongst other great things) how amazing the Christian martyrs and saints were when Christians seized most Greek temples, oraclers, monuments and masterpieces of art to the ground in the name of their God, but don't get me started-if that is not proselytising, I don't know what is. I started as an agnostic/atheist/nonbeliever/you name it. When I was fifteen I met a friend who was into occultist stuff (tarot, astrology, witchcraft etc) and gave me some reading material on Wicca, I saw something of myself in this worship of nature and life and initially I tried to follow that path. I was very turned off by the lack of agreement and uniformity Wiccanism showed, and especially the online resources are all over the place, but later I understood that that is what religion is meant to be like; personalised by and for everyone. It didn't work out for me, though (and neither for my friend, who is however still interested in Tarot and we do readings for each other once a month, she with her Tarot and me with my divination deck) (And my FMC for NaNo is a witch with Wicca as I saw it as her belief.) Now, six years later, I find that the only religion that appeals to me is the true religion of my people, Hellenic Pantheism (in the sense that someone else described it here, that the divine is everywhere in nature and around it, and basically in us). However, the Greek Orthodox Church with its power over the state has all but prohibited any religious liberty, even for other dogmas such as Muslim. I can't go to a bookstore I know of that deals with such stuff, because it has been targeted by haters and it has been burned to the ground more than once, and its customers are stigmatised. And online resources on it are so sparce it's criminal. I know for a fact that the Greek government will never recognise Hellenic Pantheism as a legitimate religion because it will mean problems with the ownership of the greek antiquity ruins (which are practically our temples). The worst part though is that this sickening narrowmindedness has seeped into the collective subconcious and the Ethnikoi (as we, the believers of Hellenic Pantheism call ourselves) are seen by our own people, the Hellenes as comic figures and are never taken seriously, or, even worse, are seen as Satan worshipers and all that jazz and even as fascists (we are not the ones burning bookstores!). Someone on this forum mentioned bull sacrifices to Zeus and, even though it was meant as a joke, it shows how deeply misunderstood the Greek belief system is. We don't sacrifice animals anymore, even though our religion requires it, just because of these misconceptions. The term pagan has been used by Christians as a demeaning, if not insulting, term for the archaic ethnic religions of the nations it "illuminated" ever since Christianism's conception (And so is the term "Greek". It means slave. The correct term is Hellenic or Hellenistic. Just FYI) and, even though I greatly disagree with it, I understand it is used as an umbrella term for all us people who believe in something different than monotheism. I am really closeted. My family (my parents and brother) never have been very religious Christians (and my dad is also a big admirer of the Hellenic religion, he has given me a lot of reading material on it and I get the impression he is a closeted Ethnikos himself from talks we have had) so there have been no problems there. But I have faced problems from my extended family, especially from my grandmother. She has threatened to disown me if I don't go to church, and, when she found out how low I think of Christianism in my agnostic phase, she started crying and told me, "Poor girl, I will pray that God shows you the right path and you will find yourself back in the arms of the church again". That night I dreamt of tentacles coming out of an icon and trapping me, so I knew I was on the right path already... But she has backed off now, seeing that her pressure on that subject is only going to alienate me from her. She still tries to take me to church, though, and I humour her once a year, on Easter. But it is only typical and for her sake, and she knows it and (I hope) she feels bad. And that's it. And as for my friends, I haven't even mentioned it at all. (btw, any tips on coming out of the religious closet would be deeply appreciated.) I admit I am seriously uninformed on the depth of the Greek religion yet but I am hopeful, as there are 3000 years worth of Greek texts describing Greek culture and religion so I am bound to find something. I am not practicing yet, but I am comfortable with it for now, as I am still researching and learning. And that is my (admittedly long) story. Please excuse any linguistic errors, even though I am sure you will be fine with it. With all our differences taken into account, I have never found a community more loving and accepting than the "pagan", even from my Wiccan times I remember that. So, as you say, Blessed Be, or as we say, "Chérete!" (Be happy) (To Cadaverine: I would be very interested to see that Hellenic calendar you speak of. If you have any resources at hand, I would be ecstatic to take a look at them just to see what your Hellenic friends are up to. Curiosity as to what makes them so busy, I guess.) Mon, 09 Jan 2012 14:46:59 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_1044656 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_1044656 Cadaverine I've heard of how difficult things are in Greece for the Ethnikoi. Given the climate in Greece on that issue at present - even given how much it has improved in the past decade - I would keep quiet, to be honest. Your religion is your business, not anyone else's. Unless it comes up, there's no reason to mention it to anyone. Pers'nally, I don't say "blessed be" ;) It's Wiccan ritual phrasing and I know some Wiccans and Seekers who get offended by people using it casually so I avoid it. Hellenic resources: <a href="http://www.theoi.com/" rel="nofollow">The Theoi Project</a> <a href="http://kyrene.4t.com/index.html" rel="nofollow">Temenos Theon</a> <a href="http://www.sacred-texts.com/cla/index.htm#greek" rel="nofollow">Sacred texts: Greece</a> <a href="http://www.winterscapes.com/kharis/calendar.htm" rel="nofollow">Athenian Festival calendar</a> (The book at the top of the page has been recommended to me by a Hellenic polytheist friend. Don't ask me what the months correspond to because I don't know, save that they're all lunar - see the holy days mentioned at the top of the page.) Also <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Greek-Religion-Walter-Burkert/dp/0674362810" rel="nofollow">this book</a> is a must-read, apparently, though it's dry and can be expensive. My Hellenic polytheist friend recommends you learn the ritual form and then just do ritual, and learn as you go along. Sun, 05 Feb 2012 20:18:44 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_1118598 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_1118598 Phoenix ADF has a Hellenic group. How large, active, or authentic it might be, I couldn't say. But they might have some helpful resources. Sun, 05 Feb 2012 22:00:27 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_1118865 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_1118865 Phoenix Just ran across a good and thoughty blog post: http://www.patheos.com/blogs/wildhunt/2012/02/guest-post-the-pagan-worldview-in-a-post-constantinian-world.html Sat, 18 Feb 2012 15:49:16 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_1150476 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_1150476 muses_daughter Hey Pagan Wrimos! My first nano became a Create Space published novel and I entered it in the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award contest. Just found out this week that it made the first cut! Of course, now it's February and all my nano buddies are scattered!!! So I'm posting here! :) I'm sure there are other nanos who entered and made the cut. I just don't really know where to find them. Peace and scribbles, Muses Daughter Sat, 25 Feb 2012 21:27:34 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_1170892 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_1170892 Phoenix Congrats! Sat, 25 Feb 2012 23:09:34 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_1171262 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_1171262 Cadaverine Well, it's not Hellenic insofar as the rituals aren't Hellenic in style. To many people this is important, so ymmv. Fri, 02 Mar 2012 17:43:37 -0600 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_1185373 http://www.nanowrimo.org/en/forums/writing-groups-and-clubs/threads/852?page=5#forum_thread_comment_1185373