Reader FAQ: Warrior Pagans

I totally agree Patti. Most, if not all ancient people had warriors. Survival of the tribe would depend on your warriors. I have to say also if my family or friends were threatened, I’d soon find the warrior inside myself.

I am a pagan, I am a vetran of the armed forces 79-85. I was proud to serve, it was one of the best decisions of my life.

I must admit I can relate to the quoted reader. This is an issue with which I’ve been struggling for quiet some time—not to join the military, but if I support such an act. My current stance (which is still evolving, so perhaps stance is too stable a word) is that such action is acceptable in defense. I do not support unnecessary war and murder: that is, in my eyes, offensive war. I think this view helps reconcile the balance of nature while still maintaining peace. A sort of war interpretation of “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”

Hearing all sides of the issue is an excellent way to help us all come to a more firm understanding and opinion of it. So a heartfelt thank you to your reader; you, Patti; and Dawn and Lore.

A warrior isn’t always violent. Many Japanese warriors were also artists. Peace is a wonderful thing, as is freedom. But to win it, sometimes you have to fight. To keep it, sometimes you have to fight. A thank you to all those who have served and are serving now.

I am a pagan, with a strong military tradition on both sides of my family. I am proud of them and grateful to them. I am also feel a profound sense of pride and gratitude to those who serve today. May the gods keep them safe. I wasn’t in the military myself, but I do consider myself a warrior pagan, and I am prepared to do whatever I have to do in order to defend my husband and our family and friends. I have the utmost respect for those who stand ready to die for us. I don’t think anyone who chooses a pacifistic path for him or herself has the right to criticize anyone else’s path, especially when our soldiers are risking everything to defend other people’s right to choose pacifism.

Crystal Rose

Peace is worth fighting for. As an Apache Indian and Marine Corps veteran, I find the original poster’s comment unbelievable. We warriors, be it military or first responders, stand between those (some of whom choose to be professional) victims and the wolves who prey on them. We Marine’s see ourselves as sheepdogs who protect the herd. The old Pagan ways encompassed the warrior path, deal with it.

It seems that the questioner is confusing Pagan with New Age. The majority of people on Earth have always been Pagan, which means that the majority of Pagans have been involved in war. The idea of a standing army was a very limited concept until about 3,000 years ago. However, as Diana pointed out, not having a standard army also means that most men and many women fought when called by the ruler.

Personally, I knew growing up that I was not cut out for the military life. But, if necessary, I would do it, and I would certainly do it to protect me and mine.

I was born in this incarnation with complete knowledge of the warrior code of feudal Japan (Bushido). Even though I was raised Christian, I held my internal code to be first and foremost in guiding my actions.

Today, I am pagan. I do not equate paganism to pacifism. I’m totally accepting of pagans who make the choice to be pacifists, but I certainly don’t see it as a requirement.

I believe that “true” warriors follow a code. Anyone can fight, but to me (and to many ancient cultures) the term “warrior” denotes a path in and of itself that is spiritual and ethical as well as physical. Speaking for the one I know best, the Japanese warrior code does not incite violence but instead seeks to avoid it whenever possible. I think this is the case with many ancient warrior classes.

There are times when a violent response is the only option that will save lives. It’s unfortunate, but it’s reality.

I am proud to be a warrior and a pagan. Peace has to be won over and over again. If you do not want to win that peace and keep it, then be thankful that there are pagans like me who will do it for you. Unfortunatly, I cannot say that I am happy to do this for you, because I also believe that you are also responsible to keep it. However, I do accept that you do not believe you must do so. We will have to agree to disagree.

I would just like to thank all of the pagan warriors and any one who is fighting for my right to be free to follow my path. the words thank you fall short of the respect and grateful feeling i have for all of you. May the Goddess bless you and keep you safe.

WOW! My son, SGT Jason Schumann, was killed from an IED 19 May 2007. I am AMAZED at the quoted reader’s words! Jason lived, and died to protect others. He hated war, but loved his men and I know gladly died in their stead.
I am at a loss for words!
Candie, PROUD Mom of her Warrior son, SGT Jason Schumann
myspace.com/juniper2082 My page to him

I agree with your comments 100% Patti. I have a nephew going overseas next month and know of many other families dealing with having their loved ones overseas. As far as I’m concerned no matter what your view on the war is, respect and thanks is the least to give people who freely risk their lives so you can live in this wonderful country. I guess ignorance is bliss.

The miltary appeals to many Pagans because dying to protect others , be it your country or your loved ones, was part of most Pagan beliefs of old. That is something I noticed very soon after becoming a Pagan, and I fully understand their point, evn if I’m not a warrior myself. Being a Pagan is way more complex than many would like it to be.

Well I doubt all pagans are peace-loving. It’s a bit of a stereotype, although I am a pacifist and see no need for violence. Unfortunately the armed forces humanity has created necessitate violence by their very existence. Some day I hope we will evolve enough to release the need for armies and violence.

Namaste

I forgot to add, I have another son in Iraq, another Warrior.

I am Proudly Pagan, and I am shocked and sadden. The men and women of the Military sacrifice so much for the freedom we have to BE Pagans! I Will see a man or woman in uniform out in Wal-mart or some other shopping area and shake their hand and tell them Thank You. I went so far as to be a soldiers angel for a year and sent a soldier in Iraq care packages and cards. Even stayed on as a letter writer to many other soldiers.

Be PROUD you stood with them and spoke to them, those “warriors” are ensuring you have the freedom of religion, & Freedom of speech. They are a necessary part of our community.

Why on earth would people who profess to be tolerant care if there are “Militant Pagans?” Just as there are all flavors of Christians, Jews & Muslims & Hindus & Buddhists….there are all flavors of Pagans. Please don’t shove your beliefs down others throats, there is room enough on the planet for all…true tolerance!

When going through abuse/rape counseling, a lady at the women’s crisis center said “You can either be a victim, or a survivor.” She explained how many people spend their lives being the victim and allowing others to take advantage of them, often resulting in serious injury/death of their selves and/or loved ones.
However, to be a survivor one must fight for what they believe in. Those that choose to be survivors are the ones that chose to fight against violence and abuse, and reach out to others in those situations and offer help. They have had to overcome the instinct to submit when confronted, and learned to use their inner voice to speak out against those who would have them and those they love be unfairly controlled and suffer.
With this, I would like to suggest that these people who also follow the Pagan path, are also “Warrior Pagans” in their own right, and that many of us are in our own way warrior spirited, even if we try to avoid confrontation.
In my eyes, there is no more fierce animal than a mother protecting her young.
There are strong warrior characters seeded through a vast number of religions and cultures. The Arch Angel Micheal was often seen wielding a flaming sword and was a warrior of God. I have been told many times never to anger a monk, they are quite adept at fighting. Where would we be with out the wonderful stories like Hercules?
Many people I have met who follow Thor and the Vikings tend to be very ‘war-like’ in their own way, but never has this ever been a problem for me because I’ve never felt their angry eyes turned my way. I had no reason to be threatened by these people. They were just different. As a general rule people often fear what they do not understand. I realize this and try to understand why I am afraid of things rather than judge. It is a nice thing to practice if you can.

However, in defense of the one writing in, I would like to add one thing.
There are those who carry a good thing too far. I have met many people in the military who believe they are superior to the human race because they wear a uniform. Not all of them are like this, but there are a few.
These extremist exist in every facet of humanity, not just the military. Their have been many cases where one group will literally bully everyone and say they are warriors, as an excuse for rude behavior.
Please do not confuse these extremists with people who follow a true warrior-like code.
A true warrior fights with honor, and by all normal standards will only take up arms in resistance to that which is being forced on others or self. They do not pick fights or bully. In fact, in many ways they are seen as heroes.
An extremist fights with pride and ego, and usually is misled. They have no value of ethics or morals, and will often bully and push around people who do not see things the way they do, often trying to force the masses in to one set way of thinking… theirs.
I can not count the number of times I have read in the news where someone takes a historical text literally, and twisted the context in to their own holy war. They do not listen to reason and often have no problem finding a following of people who tend to be low in self-esteem and need a mission or purpose in their life and think they have found one in their leader. This is often how dangerous cults are formed and have been in the spotlight of religious tolerance for years.

In closing, I would like to say to our writer:
Follow your gut instincts! If something does not feel right, then stay away from it. Those little inner voices are there for a reason. I can not express how many times my little voice has kept me out of bad situations. Listen carefully to yours.
It is not always easy to express feelings in text. Not all of us are elegant writers, and I am sure I am not great at it myself. There are words that simply can not be spoken. They are seen in the expression on one’s face, and heard in their voice when they speak.
It is the emotions we feel when we hear, see, read these things, which we respond to. I find I need to be very careful how I word things or it is easily taken out of context and assumptions made to the real intend of my words.
I am not Wiccan, I do not hold the value “harm none”. I do hold on to the Law of 3 and that things sent out will come back. But I will not hesitate to curse someone if I feel the need is warranted enough. I’ve been known to throw black salt in the tire tracks of stalkers to make them go away. I’ve done spells to help a room-mate find a place to move and get them out of my home because it was becoming too painful to deal with them, and other spells to silence gossips.
I am a Witch, and by nature I try hard to heal and make positive changes in my life and those who ask me to do the same for them. My weapons are Faith and Spirit, and I use them as wisely as I know how, knowing that no matter how hard I try, there are those who will still judge.
Our military officers ’should’ be the same way in their own context. However, realistically, not all people who join the military do so because they are following a noble cause and giving their life for us. Some join for money. Some join to escape things taking place in their own life. Some join just because they think it will make them powerful. Only with time and the lessons of life will they learn to see things differently.
It is up to us “peace-loving” people to not fear them, but show them kindness in hope that it speeds those who are not quite as ethical or moral as others, to find their way, or when feeling threatened, to walk away (or run if needed). There is nothing wrong with leaving the situation completely to protect yourself and your values.

And finally, I agree with Patti. While the majority of us are peace-loving, we are not all peaceful.
We need our heroes and I bless each and every one who takes the time to stand up for what they believe in and helping others.
We should not paint every one with the same brush. To assume we all harm none is a serious mistake.
If I correctly understand the definition, the term “Pagan” is applied to anyone who does not follow the Christian faith. That is a pretty broad spectrum of people and cultures.

Anyway… that’s my 2 cents worth, although with current postage rates it probably will cost me a lot more as much as I ramble. LOL

Blessings to all.
Basha

Wow! Most of the gods and goddesses happily engaged in war, sometimes without much provocation. Nature herself is full of conflict, organisms devouring other organisms to survive/thrive. Just what kind of paganism is the poster referring to?!!

You would not be able to live your “little safe life”, if it weren’t for the “Warrior Mentality”. The Ancients knew this, the Founding Fathers knew this and our Warriors know this…we should be so grateful that they have chosen this path. I am. My children, grandchildren and on will live and follow our beliefs because of them and those before them who fought for our freedom to live and walk our way with the least amount of fear….peace comes from “war”, whether it be inner or physical. Learn to tolerate yourself and you will be truly at peace.

Being a warrior is not a negative thing. Pagan’s were and are warriors, in ancient times as well as today.

Warrior does not mean WAR MONGER!!!

I’m a pagan in the Air Force, stationed in Korea, some 5,000 miles from home. Although it is a tough issue to deal with, there are things that not everyone realizes about the armed forces. We don’t join the military for a love of violence and war, we take up arms so that our loved ones at home will never have to. We fight, when necessary, to defend our country, our families, and our right to be pagans in a voluntary military. So to my brothers and sisters at arms, I’m proud to serve with you. And as far as being uncomfortable around pagan Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, or Airmen, that’s your right that we will still fight to protect.

Thank you to all the Pagans who are risking their lives in the conflicts abroad to protect those at home, including my HUSBAND. What of Nordic Pagans? They are not pacifists. I know a number of pagans in the military.

Not everything is peace, light and fluffy bunnies. Be thankful to those who do stand up and fight for you.

“To secure peace is to prepare for war”. As a former Marine and current law enforcement officer I do not think I am alone when I say it is a daily struggle for me to do my job and adhere to my Wiccan beliefs. The Rede and the threefold rule are the 2 things which I base the vast majority of my decisions on. they are a help rather than a hindrance. At the end of the day it is my faith that allows me to be the best warrior I can be and to protect and serve the country and people that I love.

Bright Blessings upon you, may your day be a safe and happy one. )0(

The reader’s attitude although sad is a common one that has gained more popularity with books and such that are written by people who have no idea what Paganism is. They see it as what the Hippies of the sixties were (Flower Power, “Make Love Not War”, everything is hearts and flowers, etc). It is just a way of making money off those who are disenchanted with society. Tolerance for others is not important to those who fall into this trap. If you dig deeper, most of the people like this are coming from a Christian background where their denomination was the only true one that was going to Heaven. They bring that “my way is the only way” to Paganism. Because Wicca is so much in the limelight, it is natural for these people to latch on to it and just assume that everyone is like them. They don’t realize that Paganism is a very diverse group of people with different ways of worshipping. They don’t consider us Pagans because we don’t believe in their hearts and flower version of Wicca. Because these people are what are seen by those outside Paganism as examples of what we are, their numbers are growing while those of us who truly do practice Paganism in its many forms are being overrun or worse grouped along with them.

Our pagan ancestors fought in battles to protect their families, their clans, and their hunting grounds (Yes our ancestors ate meat from animals they killed themselves).
Look no further than to the nordic pantheon, Odin in his infinite wisdom knows of the great war to come. Freyja the most beautiful and sensuous of all the goddesses gets first pick of the fallen warriors.
Our warriors today pagan or other, protect us from tyranny (unfortunantly they even protect the right to free speech to communist in this great country)They guard and protect our in Midgaard, when they fall, they protect and guard us in Asgaard.
You see a woman or a man in the uniform of our country you thank them they are willing to die for you and their friends probably did already.
Before you roll your eyes and think to yourself that the followers of the nordic traditions are violent chest beaters, being a warrior was only a small fraction of the nordic path. Art, music, poetry, loyalty honor,hospitality, courtesy, I can go on but you get the picture.

WOW…What can I say. The reader that wrote “I was really uncomfortable around this group” talking about military personnel….I am currently serving in my 28th year in the military and follow the path of a Druid. Did you even talk to these “warriors”?

My job in the Air National Guard is Emergency Management. Meaning I teach people how to survive in a chemical environment, I go into the scene of a HAZMAT incident, I respond to natural disasters and aircraft accidents. I’m one of the most peace-loving people you will ever meet, but I believe in defending myself and my country. The first thing that came to mind when I read the initial statement by this reader, was that it sounded more Christian and Pagan.

So, I ask this person, the next time you are at a pagan festival and see a member of the military, please talk to them and see how they feel about their job….don’t judge them without even knowing them…..until you’ve worn the military uniform, you will never know how we truly feel by just looking at us.

Go look up all the Gods and Goddess’ that have something to do with being a “Warrior”.

Peace and blessings to all.

I think maybe this person with the Q&A could possibly be someone just now discovering the path of Paganism and just like many of us came to the table with a different perceptive of this path. Not surprising as I am sure many of us probably did.
I think some of the responses to her were a bit harsh and could have been toned down a bit and just explained to her the differences we have.

Well put, Patti.

Pacifism is a lovely idea, but not terribly realistic. There are always those who want what they want, and will use whatever force necessary to take it. Violence is a part of humanity in this point in evolution. Even if 99% of us lay down our arms, the remaining 1% will be ready to pounce at the opportunity to seize power.

In short, I’ll become a pacifist when everyone else does.

O.K. I just want to say thank you to all who realize there has, and will, always be war in the world. Right now we just happen to be a part of it. I was raised Military, and all of my family has been military for generations, I would have been if not for a major knee injury and I believe that part of being pagan is being proud of those who give us the right to believe, and practice our, “going against the grain,” religion. As for the person who said these military people act as though they are so much better than anyone else, it is usually a defense mechanism. If you have ever gotten off a plane and had people boo you for giving THEM freedom you do tend to get a little attitude, so before you look at them as buttheads, ask yourself what made them feel that way to begin with!!! When my Grandfather got back from vietnam he was shunned by society because of his service, I might add that he spent 35 years active duty and retired a command sgt. major, a very high rank in the army. He served that time, even after vietnam, proudly and without reservation. He made sure that all of us were able to practice our religion without fear of persecution, or another burning times!!! In my opinion, we owe our lives to the men and women who serve, and have served our country. Think about that the next time you decide these pagan warriors are arrogant, or disorderly. Walk the walk and see how you feel after that!!!!
Brightest Blessings, Amethyst

Still trying to figure out how to be politically correct, alas this is the softest way I can put it in my opinion to the “uncomfortable one” poster. Obviously this person is new to the path and most likely has not picked up anything more than a book by Silver Raven Wolf, who by the way s**** and teaches witchcraft in 13 easy steps to become a high priestess in reading just one book. A strong suggestion that research into ancient religions/cultures is in order to clarify and gain a better understanding of how life and religion were at their beginnings and how it has remained in the hearts and lives of true pagans/witch’s despite the “NewAge” of “Neo Pseudo Paganism” where everyone is so into “Light and Love” that equals some a**hat running around in freaking fairy attire with a stupid grin blessing the crap out of everyone.

Instead of criticizing and condemning these heroes, you should just simply and humbly take a step back and Thank them for keeping you safe and free! I am Canadian and have the utmost respect for all the brave souls from Canada and the United States of America who have choosen to step up to the plate to serve! I thank them every day for their bravery, I cry every day as we bring another fallen soldier home, I hope one day we will not need the military, but until that day comes I will Thank them all for their Service.”No Border~ Remember OUR Soldiers!”

How callous, I agree with you Patti, they are serving our country and willing to make self sacrifice so others don’t have to – every Pagan, Wicca & Druid I know have total respect for the men and women who serve our country. I can’t believe someone would be uncomfortable around such people.

Patti, you were much more diplomatic than I felt when I read this letter. You hit the nail right square on the head though and I appreciate your response. This person’s quickness to judge and stereo-type makes me feel “uncomfortable”. As not only a Pagan, but as the child of a soldier who remembers dad leaving for Viet Nam very clearly, I thank you.

Pagan or Wiccan does not mean pacifist.
I’ve always thought of our crede to have a wonderful clause for active self defense. It is my karma and that of the community to which I belong and I see it as my right and Duty to defend that community. The Armed Forces do so with pride, honor, and in the greatest sense sacrifice for the community.

While I can understand the source of the “Uncomfortable One” thoughts, the belief that pagan equates to hippy or pacifist is a common one. The problem I have is that this person has such a poor understanding of our own history and the religions that make up the pagan community….can anyone think that Asatru (Nordic) is a pacifist? or that when we sing to Maiden, Mother Crone that we forget Father Hunter Son? That the Maiden and Hunter are the warrior aspects? Or the Gaelic legends the Children of Danuu?

I am greatful to my friends and family who have served and continue to serve this community.

Thank you
Jokarius

What planet does this person come from? Warriors have existed to hunt for food and protect the people since mankind started to band together, pagans or otherwise.
The line that reads “an ye harm none,…” was written what, 50 years ago?

In no way do I interpret the Wiccan Rede to say I’m not allowed to protect myself, my loved ones or my people. It means: Don’t be an a$$hole.

I’ve protected the people of my nation as an Infantry soldier for a decade. I’ve protected the people of my community for almost 2 decades as a police officer.

This person better thank whoever he/she prays to for people like me so he/she doesn’t have to take any responsibility for his/her safety.

Has anyone that posted a comment read the book “Wiccan Warrior Walking a Spiritual Path in a Sometimes Hostile World” by Kerr Cuhulain? It is published by Llewellyn Publications. If you haven’t, I would suggest that you get a copy. Kerr Cuhulain is a former Air Force officer and has been a police officer for the past twenty years, and a Wiccan for thirty. His book states that “Being a warrior is not about fighting. It’s about freeing yourself of limitations so that you can be truly crative and efective in life.” Being Wiccan, I read a lot of books and it is a never ending search for knowledge. When you hear someone say that they are a warrior, ask them what type of warrior they are.
Blessed be.

I’m currently reading “Wiccan Warrior,” and its a wonderful book, written by a Wiccan who has been a police officer for years. He’s another “warrior” out there protecting the rest of us, because we can’t always do it ourselves. I agree with what everyone else has said…the “concerned Pagan” needs a wake-up call regarding what paganism is and isn’t. I don’t really follow “harm ye none” myself, and will stand up and defend myself if need be; the essence of “warrior.”

If you pick up one of Kerr Cuhulain’s other books, “Full Contact Magick,” he goes into more depth on the warrior mentality…also good reading. ^_^

Blessing onto our warriors, who fight to keep us free!

Does it concern you so much the faith or flag, that a Warrior of heart and soul protects our beliefs, loved ones and soil.

They will lay down their lives for you without questioning your belief, flag or soil. We are one as Pagans, we are of the same earth, same beliefs, we are all Warriors,:) just some of us are front line Warriors, others are Support Warriors, Hearth Warriors etc.

Give thanks to your gods that there are those who will sacrifice all just for your protection, I once wore uniform of my country; it lies now surrounding my soul. My son is a front line Warrior we are of a different flag, but we fight as one with the USA, should his life be taken, I pray people like you will not think ill of his decision to be a Warrior because without people like him and his wife who is in uniform also like his mother and past descendents who chose to be the ultimate Warriors of you – our own faiths and flags may be flying different colours, our sacrifice has been the same, it was the ultimate sacrifice for freedom.
I pray for all those Warriors past, present and future, to preserve the peace and protection we have enjoyed through the ultimate sacrifice of the ultimate Warriors.
Light blessings and love.
We as Pagans have fought through the lifetimes to be recognised…Pagans come in all guises, embrace those who are not as you because we are one circle, not many circles.
I believe you have the courage and acceptance to embrace these fellow pagans, reach out to them, email them, for being in uniform at times can be lonely, being pagan and in uniform is still a struggle so reach out become part of their support group because it may just surprise you, enrich you, and being part of a wider family even the Warrior pagans can oper your eyes to strengthen the Warrior in you.

Moonlitcleric (another flag but the same faith and beliefs of the coalition of Warriors.)

These are a couple of my favorite sayings, grouped into The Warrior Creed by Robert L. Humphrey (1923-1997).
-Wherever I walk,
everyone is a little bit safer because I am there.
-Wherever I am,
anyone in need has a friend.
-Whenever I return home,
everyone is happy I am there.

A world without war is a noble goal, but we’ll never achieve it. Therefore, we will always need warriors. While I’m not always proud of the decisions of the government, especially the previous president, I am proud and thankful for all of our soldiers who put their lives on the line and make all kinds of other sacrifices in the name of duty and honor and safety.

As one of many Pagans who are veterans, the original poster is seriously misguided. One of the central parts of many Pagan cultures is their pride in their abilities as warriors. Vikings, Celts, American Indians (including Aztecs) were all very proud of their status as warriors. Greece and Rome had no issues fighting. I find it difficult to believe a Pagan would have a problem with warriors. I’m sure most of us know about the maiden/mother/crone, I think similarly of males as warrior/father/sage though rather than stages of life, it’s more of the male’s role in life. I think of the Rede as a guideline to prevent us from doing unnecessary harm out of anger, but by not protecting ourselves, and others, we actually cause harm that way. The number one rule of nature is preservation of self/family. War is natural, maybe not pleasant, but it’s natural. You can find species outside of man engaging in war. And without warriors-be they Pagan or otherwise- we would be open targets for others who would wish to impart their wills upon us.

The Morrighan, Athena, Freya, Lugh, and Thor… Pagan history is there for all to see. As a Viet Nam Vet whose homecomming consisted of being spat on for wearing the uniform at the airport on his way home, and as a Wiccan, my conviction for “harming none” is not so resolute that I will not stand in defence and support of the warriors while condeming the war. I follow the Wiccan Rede as completely as possible but a pacifist nature and respect for all living things should not be mistakenly regarded as a sign of weakness.

Bravo Patti…if it were not for the warriors, we would not be free to even practice our own beliefs at all. Every society needs its’ “protectors”, or else we would become non existant at the hands of “The predators”.

I have no problem whatsoever with the notion of pagan warriors…our very roots are from that of warrior races, and the tradition continues.
Anyone who can feel ‘uncomfortable’ around those who serve to keep us free should not be. The way I see it is if it were not for those warrior souls, we who either choose not to or cannot defend would not even be here.

These warriors not only defend and protect us, the citizens, but they have broken down barriers as well with the allowance of our paths to be observed within the confines of the military system which had been at one time wholly christian in the nature of its core beliefs…a pretty big accomplishment IMO.

They deserve as much gratitude, support and thanks that we can give them.

First, I would like to thank all of my fellow brothers and sisters that serve with me. We are “Warriors” who have sacraficed so much of ourselves and our families to ensure that people such as this mis-guided poster have the right to be “uncomfortable”.

Second, as with almost every post that I have read to this point, Warriors are a basic necessity to any civilization. For without our Warriors, we and all other cultures would have vanished from the face of the earth. We have a “Warrior Mentality”, because as we are trained to be warriors of this great nation we call America (where any one can disagree and voice their opinion) there is a spirit of fighting instilled in and upon us. If we ever doubted what we are capable of we would fail in our duty to defend those that cannot or will not defend themselves, and our great nation would fall.

we “Warriors” give you the right to be and do as you choose. We give this to you through our sacrifice of self and family, as they suffer as well when we are gone. Thank the “Warriors” that you see and meet, as it may be the last time that are able to if they fall protecting you.

You can find a man named Kerr Cuhulain on Facebook and Twitter. Please write to him and voice your displeasure over Pagans who call themselves “warriors”. Please write back and let me know what you find out.
:>

Oh, dear. makes you wonder why these people ever poke their heads out the doorway each day. Not everyone is so ‘peace and light ‘ that we can walk the streets in safety. Some of us still remember our past lives as warriors, and it is not something that is easily ignored.
The Warrior is a part of our psyche, and in this present reality, you fight or you die.

Those are the words of someone who really has their head up their rear. :/
As pretty much everyone else has said, Paganism is not equal to Pacifism. When it’s possible to resolve things without force, that’s beyond wonderful.
But there are inevitably going to be times when it is not. The universe by it’s very nature desires chaos (This is the pagan/scientist in me speaking now) and humans get very, very uncomfortable around chaos, so force must be used to restore order. In times such as these, that chaos manifests as wide-spread idiocy with brute force behind it, which the people of our military and care services have the strength to stand against.
Words cannot express how thankful to those people I am; I know I’m too petty to be able to risk myself for people who would have the gall to scold me for giving them the ability to do as they wish.

My son began to study the Wiccan way his senior year of high school. I prescribed to this site as I didn’t know much about his new religion and I didn’t want to make uninformed conclusions about his choice.
My son joined the US Navy a year ago. He is attached to a Seebee Battalion in Gulfport, Mississippi. He has not turned his back on his faith. He proudly has “Wiccan” inscribed on his dog tag and speaks often to the Battalion’s Chaplain about his faith.
My son has a loving and gentle soul however if need be he will kill to protect his family and Country. One of the fundamental rights the military protects is the right to worship the god (goddess) of their choosing. Nothing comes free in this life. Freedom of religion is ours because many men and women have made the ultimate sacrifice. I am very proud of my Wiccan Warrior.

Your views on ‘warrior’ – ie todays military personel – is really distorted. Most feel they ‘have to join army’ just to get a job and have money for school. All the heroism nonsense is bull. Shows you are not at all ‘with the times.’ Be HERE now. And the ancient paganism stuff was drumed up by christians trying to christianize neo-paganism as if it were just ‘old or beginning christianity.’ Real pagans of today, – not the christian pagans, the real ones, shun the warrior image, don’t glorify in it. That is one of the main reasons they leave christianity – they find the jesus cult to bloodthirsty. For you to deny that reality, a real touchstone for neo pagans, as vehemently as you do – says something about you. You’re not really pagan.

My son and daughter-in-law both serve in the military. My son is Pagan (as am I) and my daughter-in-law is Buddhist. Both have a strong devotion to their country and the liberties it has provided them. They don’t go into the military with the mind set to “do harm” to others. one is a computer specialist and the other is a medic. Neither carry guns. They have however been trained in the use of combat and if necessary will do whatever is required to protect their country. I am extremely proud of them both. They are good people who try to do the right thing by teaching and caring for others and protecting us here at home.

I understand the readers point of view, but I have to whole heartedly agree with everything Patti said. My advise to the reader is, if you don’t want our soldiers over seas and in harms way, write your polititians. Tell your senator and congressman to bring them home safe and sound with their families where they belong. Bless them for for sacrificing their health, well being, and sometimes their bodies and their lives, in defense of what we hold dear. Thank them by not pissing their gifts away on pointless campaigns of conquest and colonization, or global posturing. They are too precious to waste that way. Thank you all for letting me rant.

Well i agree with the previous Dawn, but i think everyone’s coming down rather hard on the questioner. After all, isn’t our Prime Directive, “Harm None”?

I do understand the disconfort related to harming others in war. But…is not Morrigan a goddess of war? What about Athene? She fought to protect her city. Or what about Ares? Agression is a part of humanity. We can not deny it. We have to control it, but sometimes it’s necesary to use it. Now, I’m not saying I particularly agree with the war in the Middle East. But we can’t deny that, in a practical sense, war is a part of the divine and a part of humanity.

The warrior path is the most widely accepted path for shamans or similar spiritual callings but not the only path. A wariors creed, ethos. philosophy is the standard of the culture that it evolved from but, basically a warriors creed affirms a community spirit that seems to be currently missing in our modern age and is meant to serve the community, Not the leaders of nations or its politics. It serves justice tempered with compassion, It protects and nurtures and strengthens those that Hold to that community spirit and demands retribution of those that weaken , attack or try to take that away. It seems to me that in our modern age a code any code that dfends the weak and nurtures justice and compassion is sorely needed now more than ever in our communities, our homes, our schools, our sports and our leaders