When I was a boy my parents often reminded me that just because I can do something does not mean I should. This lesson of childhood, that everything I do can and will have have an effect on others has been a guiding principle of my life. Recently I have witnessed a broad cross section of members of my spiritual community engage in fundraising efforts to raise funds for books, CD projects, movies, travel and building structures on Pagan land.... Read more

Interesting what lesions life brings. During a recent Wildfire dispatch I managed to injure my hip. For about three days I walked with a limp and was unable to do many of the mundane things I do every day. Of course, this situation came during fire demobilization and four long flights home involving the inevitable walks between terminals at the airport. My reactions to being “hurt’ surprised me. As many individuals offered assistance, from airport transportation to assistance in security... Read more

Mom, You remain my first and most influential Goddess. From you flowed all the lessons I needed to lead a meaningful life. In your compassion lives the oneness of humanity In your loving eyes were insights into belonging, community and the sacredness of place In your ability to always believe in human potential flowed the life-blood of humanities hope for the future Your gentle words were always an eloquent blueprint for how to interact with the world Your loving reprimands... Read more

In response to the recent events individuals of privilege, specifically white men, have the opportunity to turn their privilege on its self.  We as a group can reject this last mask of bigotry by using this incident to engage others in a national discussion of the need for justice in this country. Our nations children should not be at risk of being killed for “walking while black”. Over the course of the last few days it has become clear that the... Read more

This conference featured many individuals that are on the forefront of progressive theological thought. It was a true blessing to be present. One of the most hotly discussed issues was violence at Occupy sites. The discussions covered both police violence and violence from protesters. As faith leaders many felt the discussion was important to have. Most striking about this process was the amount of deep thought and analysis that had gone into this subject. An interesting question that came up... Read more

Occupy Faith leaders from the four corners of our nation are gathering in Berkeley California to discuss the Occupy movement, future actions and the impact faith leaders have on the movement. Day one of this conference started with a brief blessing by a Rabbi, an invitation for all to participate in Haiku introductions and group sessions. Opening blessings on this first day of the conference included both Hebrew and English translations in call and response. All seemed to enjoy the... Read more

Over time many have commented on my devotion to service, to humanity, my religious community, my friends. These comments always make me uncomfortable.  Somehow I am always left with the impression that these people view me as someone who makes these sacrifices from 100% altruistic motives: something in my heart I know is not true. The fact is I am very selfish about service as a spiritual path. For some service is a duty, others a necessary sacrifice and for... Read more

Within the modern Pagan religious community there is a debate raging that will profoundly effect the progressive movement for years to come. This debate around inclusiveness of individuals of varied gender identities comes to the forefront of Paganism while the progressive movement is still fighting to obtain marriage equity in the wider community. Additionally, with the distraction of the recent re emergence of anti women rhetoric it may be years until gender identity issues are a top priority of progressives... Read more

An Open Letter to the General Assembly Being in the Bay area of California has afforded me the opportunity to participate in actions organized by Occupy Oakland. For the most part this has been a blessing to see hundreds of individuals come together in solidarity in the manifestation of economic, social and educational justice. During a recent action, however, I was stunned to see activists engage in actions that put the entire movement and its’ message at risk. Participating in... Read more

As the Pagan blogisphere explodes with intense debate, as my Occupy brothers and sisters plan actions, as conservatives attack the rights of women, I am engulfed by waves of temptation to act in righteous indignation. The urge is strong to weigh into the debate brought on by events at Panthea Con this year. Having been there should I, write a post, offer my services as a mediator or attempt to bring a sense of compassion to this debate? I sit... Read more