Druidry Is Not My Religion

Last updated on: February 14, 2016 at 3:41 pm By John Beckett

I’m inspired by the ancient Druids, I model my spiritual practice on what we know about them, and I’m a full member of the largest Druid order in the world. I do what Druids do – I am a Druid. But Druidry is not my religion. Read more

I’m No Fan of Valentine’s Day

Last updated on: February 9, 2016 at 7:11 pm By John Beckett

While there is value in a day to celebrate romantic love and relationships, Valentine’s Day sets a standard for what a romantic celebration should be that’s unhelpful for most and impossible for some. I really wish we had something better. Read more

ADF Texas Imbolc Retreat 2016

Last updated on: February 9, 2016 at 7:31 pm By John Beckett

The 2016 ADF Texas Imbolc Retreat was a wonderful weekend of workshops, conversations, stories, songs, and a very powerful ritual. Read more

Ostara: The Season of Preparation

Last updated on: February 2, 2016 at 7:50 pm By John Beckett

If Imbolc is the season of contemplation, Ostara is the season of preparation. As we sit here in early February it’s not time to get moving (not just yet) but it is time to start getting ready to move. Read more

Religion That Works

Last updated on: February 2, 2016 at 7:23 pm By John Beckett

Religion that works deals with religious matters. It does so honestly, transparently, and unapologetically. If we water down our deepest traditions in the name of unity, we end up with a religion that doesn’t work. Read more

The Future of Pagan Leadership

Last updated on: February 2, 2016 at 6:06 pm By John Beckett

Paganism will continue to grow in both breadth and depth. The question, then, is “how do Pagan leaders foster both breadth and depth?” How do we foster elite levels of skill and devotion without becoming elitist? Read more

Racism Cannot Be Tolerated

Last updated on: January 31, 2016 at 6:10 pm By John Beckett

Let’s not give a platform to those who attack anti-racist efforts. Racism can’t be eliminated (not immediately, anyway) but it can be identified and quarantined like the virus it is. Read more

Nine Things I Think

Last updated on: January 25, 2016 at 7:30 pm By John Beckett

Nine Things I Think: Denton CUUPS’ first circle since the fire, Pantheacon plans, Many Gods West, the Super Bowl, and more. Read more

An Imbolc Meditation

Last updated on: January 25, 2016 at 7:02 pm By John Beckett

As we celebrate Imbolc, let us use this cold, slow time of the year to prepare ourselves for a warm, vibrant Spring. Read more

What’s Wrong With Asking For a Miracle?

Last updated on: January 24, 2016 at 3:33 pm By John Beckett

Magic can make the improbable more likely, but it can’t do the impossible. Rather than asking for a miracle, let’s use our considerable skills to reframe problems, expand our efforts, work incrementally, and when necessary, to show the world the meaning of valor. Read more