Abandoning My Practice

Days of smoke, heat and intense focus on work have elapsed.  Idaho is burning, many homes have been lost and the battle continues. As I sit in the thick of the response effort I have no time for my beliefs, rituals, prayers or the Goddess herself.  All that I am is focused on achieving operational objectives, yet it is my take on these objectives that are the product of years of spiritual seeking and practice.

High profile fires are burning; multi-million dollar homes destroyed and I find that my voice is one of advocacy for the small towns affected by this disaster. Urging time and again for an understanding that the homes and communities of average citizens should be the priorities that we establish. Against a wave of political pressure to focus on “high value” resources, my voice sings a song of prayer for the forest, small towns and the lives of the not so famous. 

Even when I have no time for the Goddess she is with me in thought, deed and action.

Today I am back from a fire, in Boise, resting, planning and preparing to respond again. As I reflect on my actions it is clear that the most profound influence my beliefs have had on me are my instinctive actions in crisis. When direct decisions are necessary NOW, they are laced with compassion, internal tears for the destruction Gaia faces in this firestorm and the need to be of service.

The most profound expression of my Pagan beliefs and practice shine through most brightly when I have little time for piety.

She has shaped me into an individual capable of living my beliefs under intense pressure.