New anthropological research demonstrates that performing religious rituals helps reduce anxiety in stressful situations. It’s nice to see science confirming what we’ve known all along. What’s not so nice are the materialist assumptions in the study. Read more
Regrets are negative emotions, which the toxic positivity crowd wants to banish from our lives. And while dwelling on the negative parts of life is generally unhealthy, so is pretending that everything is fine when it isn’t. The prescription for handling regrets is to be compassionately honest with yourself. Read more
Initiation is never required, but it is often helpful. And while self-initiation has limits, it can be quite effective. A true life-changing initiation comes from a God or other spiritual ally, regardless of who is officiating. Read more
I constantly emphasize doing what must be done. You don’t have to like a bad situation, you just have to deal with it. But “dealing with it” includes having enough good experiences to remind you that life is more than trying to stay alive. We need moments of joy and pleasure. Read more
Some Pagans have been doing online rituals for years. Most of us are trying to learn how as fast as we can. I can’t wait to get back to in-person group rituals, but the more ways we can honor our Gods, work our magic, and connect with like-minded folks, the better off we’ll be. Read more
Those of us who’ve been talking about Tower Time and The Storm for years should not be surprised by anything going on. Let’s quit trying to act respectable and become the strongest, most competent witches, Pagans, and other magical people that we can be, that we need to be, and deep down, that we want to be. Read more
I’ve been doing public ritual for 17 years and I’ve yet to do one perfectly. I’ve learned two things. Don’t be afraid to make a mistake. And also, do everything you can to keep from making a mistake. Here’s how to do both. Read more
Even if your worship is a private thing, it brings you closer to your Gods. That will cause you to bring Their values and virtues into the world, and help restore Them to a place of prominence and honor in the wider society. Read more
I do not believe in an actual purgatory. But purgatory is an apt metaphor for the intermediate state in between open conflict and real peace. What we do here and now will determine if we can build a world that is fair and just for all, or if we will yet again descend into the hell of war. Read more
The Under the Ancient Oaks Online Summer Solstice Ritual will be Saturday, June 20 at 8:00 PM CDT on YouTube. Read more
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