Some are called by the Gods. Some are claimed. Some are deluding themselves. The existence of the third group in no way refutes the reality of the first two. It simply reminds us of the necessity for discernment, deeper thinking, and more nuanced discourse. Read more
I had plans to do something magical, spiritual, religious, and very important to me – and I had to postpone it. This was a hard thing for me to do. Read more
Last week there were two excellent articles on witchcraft in major American publications. That acceptance is important not because we need it – we are who and what we are, regardless of what anyone thinks – but because of what is says about the wider society. Read more
Earlier this month I issued An October Viewing and Reading Challenge. I wanted to watch one new movie, one new TV series, one old movie that I’ve forgotten, and read one new book. Challenge accepted, challenge completed. Here’s how it went. Read more
If honoring a particular ancestor causes you suffering and stress, don’t do it. But if you can, you may want to work with – and for – your troublesome ancestors. Doing so can help them, your family, our wider society – and in the process, you. Read more
Colin Powell leaves a complicated legacy: a lifetime of service, effective leadership during the first Gulf War, and a moderating voice in the Republican Party. And also, a key accomplice in starting a needless war under false pretenses. Read more
Before we talk about how we work with the dead, we need to talk about who and what the dead are. We need a theology of the dead. We will never be able to say it’s true in an absolute sense, but we will be able to say that it’s reasonable and helpful. Read more
I’m used to my Gods not showing me Their plans. I trust Them and I want to be a part of Their work, so I do it. But I’ve always felt like I knew where I was going and that I would get there in this life. I’m starting to realize that’s not the case. Read more
We give honor to those who are worthy of honor. If someone was abusive in life, they are unworthy of honor in life or in death. If honoring a problematic ancestor causes you stress and suffering, don’t do it. We owe abusive ancestors absolutely nothing. Read more
When someone spouts conspiracy theories about Covid, when they overstate the side effects of vaccines and understate their effectiveness, when they deny or ignore almost 5 million deaths, I hear “there are five lights.” Read more
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