Apr
Keep or Send
Heathenism is not the only way. We do not claim to hold all truth exclusively. If something is true, it is true whether perceived by Heathens, Pagans, Christians or Buddhists. Heathenism is one way among many.
When people come to us, we ought to welcome them and offer them our insight. Some of them will find their answers in Heathenism. For those who do not, we do best if we help them get to the place where they belong. There will be people for whom Heathenism is home, and others who will find it a “way station” on their quest to find their home.
I find it distressing that some Heathens would deride a person who decides to look elsewhere for their path. While we cherish our home tradition, it is no slight against us if others do not find their place in our midst. We ought to be thankful they chose to spend time with us. In their decision to look further afield, we should be gracious. It says good things of us if a person, on finding another path, says, “Those Heathens were wonderful. I cannot say enough good about those fine people and their beliefs.” That is much better than having someone say, “They love you when you want to be one of them, but as soon as you change your mind, they turn on you.”
Like it or not, but Heathenism is not for everybody.
I am a firm believer that we ought to accept those who join us, and help others find their way. There are folks whose place is among Celtic traditions, Egyptian tradition, Wicca or any of several other beliefs. It does us good if they come upon us in their journey. The things we give them will remain with them always, and if we are gracious, they will be fondly held. Likewise, more than a few people whom we help find their way will reciprocate by referring others to us. This broadens our reputation and increases the esteem in which others hold Heathenism.
