So, there will be a SLIGHT revision for the schedule. This is my new schedule for the next 3 months
June 9th: Sannion
June 16th: Story Time
June 23rd: Story Time
June 30th: Grab Bag
July 7th: Speaker [To Be Determined]
July 14th: Story Time
July 21st: Story Time
June 28th: Grab Bag
August 4th: Aine Llewellyn
August 11th: Story Time
August 18th: Story Time
August 25th: Grab Bag
Grab Bag is a show which will be whatever I want it to be. People can call in, I'll play music, tell stories, ramble, it is just a show to have fun and get to know my listeners better.
Friday, May 31, 2013
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Pagans Place Mortals Over Gods
Teo Bishop has written another post today. There is one thing I want to extract from it.
"I believe that we’re all connected. I believe that the human heart is king, and that the focus on the divine over the human is a mistake. I believe it’s backwards to establish a religion that’s based on the gods first, because we are human, and the act of being human is all we have to reference."
And therein lies the biggest problem and biggest difference and the reason why I don't like the Pagan community often times.
They put themselves first, themselves as the highest player, then the divine gets to ride shotgun.
I personally don't think a lot of religions should be about the self primarily. It is about the Gods and I have mad respect for Catholics and some branches of Christianity because they are so devoted to their God. They cherish it, they revel in it, and it is wonderful and beautiful. Hindus revel in their Brahma. Focus on deity over man is a beautiful, beautiful act of letting go. It is an act of acknowledging that you aren't the biggest player, and that is humbling and wonderful.
And not to mention he did the Pagan equivalent of Godwin's Law pretty dang quickly ( which is comparing a pagan to a monotheist. )
Truthfully, I haven't read Teo's stuff for a bit. He changed after PantheaCon, he realized that he is a Big Shot and started ignoring people more, and his attitude just changed. It really disappointed me truthfully.
And Teo, the little p pagans put the Gods above themselves. You are a big P Pagan.
I'm truly disappointed and disenthused with what has happened in the community these past few weeks. This is kind of just the cherry on top.
I'm severely disappointed. I don't belong here. I'm a round peg trying to shove myself into a pentagram shaped hole. It won't work.
Oh well.
"I believe that we’re all connected. I believe that the human heart is king, and that the focus on the divine over the human is a mistake. I believe it’s backwards to establish a religion that’s based on the gods first, because we are human, and the act of being human is all we have to reference."
And therein lies the biggest problem and biggest difference and the reason why I don't like the Pagan community often times.
They put themselves first, themselves as the highest player, then the divine gets to ride shotgun.
I personally don't think a lot of religions should be about the self primarily. It is about the Gods and I have mad respect for Catholics and some branches of Christianity because they are so devoted to their God. They cherish it, they revel in it, and it is wonderful and beautiful. Hindus revel in their Brahma. Focus on deity over man is a beautiful, beautiful act of letting go. It is an act of acknowledging that you aren't the biggest player, and that is humbling and wonderful.
And not to mention he did the Pagan equivalent of Godwin's Law pretty dang quickly ( which is comparing a pagan to a monotheist. )
Truthfully, I haven't read Teo's stuff for a bit. He changed after PantheaCon, he realized that he is a Big Shot and started ignoring people more, and his attitude just changed. It really disappointed me truthfully.
And Teo, the little p pagans put the Gods above themselves. You are a big P Pagan.
I'm truly disappointed and disenthused with what has happened in the community these past few weeks. This is kind of just the cherry on top.
I'm severely disappointed. I don't belong here. I'm a round peg trying to shove myself into a pentagram shaped hole. It won't work.
Oh well.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Geisha
Ever since I can remember first seeing them, I have been obsessed with geisha.
I can't say why. I don't know if it is their elegance, the clothing, the grace, the beauty, I'm not sure. There is just something about them I love.
They are a dwindling type of performer as far as I know, but they still have young women and girls joining their ranks.
And of course being a geisha is a popular Western fantasy.
I pray that these performers never fade away from the Japanese landscape.
 | ||
| Geisha at Party in Niigata by Zebrio on flickr |
I can't say why. I don't know if it is their elegance, the clothing, the grace, the beauty, I'm not sure. There is just something about them I love.
 | ||
| Geisha by Fidel Ramos on flickr |
They are a dwindling type of performer as far as I know, but they still have young women and girls joining their ranks.
 | ||
| Geisha Girl by TerryGeorge on Flickr |
And of course being a geisha is a popular Western fantasy.
 | ||
| Tourists dressed up as maiko by Tom Olliver on Flickr |
 |
| Tourist dressed up as geisha by iwishmynamewasmarsha on Flickr |
I pray that these performers never fade away from the Japanese landscape.
Monday, May 27, 2013
Friday, May 24, 2013
Do not Neglect Her
Aphrodite shows her grace and blessings in a number of ways. In the lingering gaze over your lover's body. In the sensation of another heart beating and pulsating against your chest, and knowing yours is doing the same. She shows herself in gasps during passionate sex between lovers and she makes herself equally known as you both lounge on a couch, watching trashy television.
Aphrodite shows herself in a number of ways.
When a John screws a prostitute, there is Aphrodite. In the affairs between a man and his lawfully wedded secretary we find Aphrodite, When the Mrs. Vanyack decides to screw the sweaty and strangely muscled plumber we find Aphrodite.
In heartache, we find Aphrodite.
Aphrodite has the ability to make your life beautiful or horrible.
Do not neglect her.
Aphrodite shows herself in a number of ways.
When a John screws a prostitute, there is Aphrodite. In the affairs between a man and his lawfully wedded secretary we find Aphrodite, When the Mrs. Vanyack decides to screw the sweaty and strangely muscled plumber we find Aphrodite.
In heartache, we find Aphrodite.
Aphrodite has the ability to make your life beautiful or horrible.
Do not neglect her.
 |
| Aphrodite by Ian Muttoo on flickr |
Thursday, May 23, 2013
Intend to Get Married (Γαμειν μελλε)
(DISCLAIMER: I do not claim to be an expert on anything. I'm merely
giving my opinions and interpretations as I see them as being
applicable. We are not an absolutist faith, nor do I personally regard the maxims as infallible)
Maxim: Γαμειν μελλε or "Intend to get married"
I know this is one that quite a few people don't like, but I'd like to discuss why it should at least be given some consideration and the light in which this maxim came about.
The most important thing to note about this maxim is that it arose when getting married was more of a practical and economic thing which was encouraged so that the family line could legitimately continue, property kept within the family, and so that the family cultus and obligations could continue being carried out. Getting married was a vital and imperative part of life for both men and women. In getting married and producing an heir, you fulfilled your basic obligations to your family. To not get married out of circumstance was bad enough, but to swear off marriage altogether was unfathomable.
Marriage today is far different. Moderns marry out of love, not practicality. Many of us feel only a light pressure to carry on the family line, and most of us don't have a family cultus that needs to be perpetuated. Marriage is no longer seen as an imperative part of life and some modern persons swear off marriage altogether. So what do we do with this? I'm not entirely sure, and I'm speaking as a very young man who still retains a certain jubilant optimism, but I agree with the implied premise that you shouldn't swear off marriage altogether, even if your marriage cannot be recognized under the law. No man or woman is an island, and while some who swear off relationships will still get laid when they are young, as they get older that will slow down. A lack of relationship experience will really make it hard to find someone who you are compatible with, and I've seen (or rather heard) the laments of friends who are middle-aged and older about being incredibly lonely at their age. A certain regret at the length of their wild-streak. Of course, I hear some similar complaints from divorcees who wish they hadn't 'wasted their time' with an ex-husband or ex-wife.
Marriage is something to be carefully considered I believe. To be open to it and hope for it is good, but to rush into one because you feel like you 'need' to get married is just as bad as swearing off marriage altogether for whatever reason. Humans need companionship and need support. Do not fear to seek someone out merely because you might get hurt. A coward dies a thousand deaths. Enjoy the pleasures and gifts of Aphrodite and then when the time comes, enjoy the gifts of Hera. Our society is increasingly oriented towards getting one's self in as few obligations as possible, but there is something to be said about lasting companionship I feel.
Maxim: Γαμειν μελλε or "Intend to get married"
I know this is one that quite a few people don't like, but I'd like to discuss why it should at least be given some consideration and the light in which this maxim came about.
The most important thing to note about this maxim is that it arose when getting married was more of a practical and economic thing which was encouraged so that the family line could legitimately continue, property kept within the family, and so that the family cultus and obligations could continue being carried out. Getting married was a vital and imperative part of life for both men and women. In getting married and producing an heir, you fulfilled your basic obligations to your family. To not get married out of circumstance was bad enough, but to swear off marriage altogether was unfathomable.
Marriage today is far different. Moderns marry out of love, not practicality. Many of us feel only a light pressure to carry on the family line, and most of us don't have a family cultus that needs to be perpetuated. Marriage is no longer seen as an imperative part of life and some modern persons swear off marriage altogether. So what do we do with this? I'm not entirely sure, and I'm speaking as a very young man who still retains a certain jubilant optimism, but I agree with the implied premise that you shouldn't swear off marriage altogether, even if your marriage cannot be recognized under the law. No man or woman is an island, and while some who swear off relationships will still get laid when they are young, as they get older that will slow down. A lack of relationship experience will really make it hard to find someone who you are compatible with, and I've seen (or rather heard) the laments of friends who are middle-aged and older about being incredibly lonely at their age. A certain regret at the length of their wild-streak. Of course, I hear some similar complaints from divorcees who wish they hadn't 'wasted their time' with an ex-husband or ex-wife.
Marriage is something to be carefully considered I believe. To be open to it and hope for it is good, but to rush into one because you feel like you 'need' to get married is just as bad as swearing off marriage altogether for whatever reason. Humans need companionship and need support. Do not fear to seek someone out merely because you might get hurt. A coward dies a thousand deaths. Enjoy the pleasures and gifts of Aphrodite and then when the time comes, enjoy the gifts of Hera. Our society is increasingly oriented towards getting one's self in as few obligations as possible, but there is something to be said about lasting companionship I feel.
 |
| Shinto Wedding Party by CaDeltaFoto on flickr |
Monday, May 20, 2013
Athene and Aphrodite
This post will not be referencing historical cultus or perceptions, but merely ones that are my own
Aphrodite and Athene are not fundamentally opposed to one another. Mythically, they had conflicts at times and they had tensions between one another, indeed, it can be pretty clear that being madly in love with someone can detract from scholarly studies, cause one to act foolishly, excessive love-making may lead to a neglect of certain household duities and tasks as well as neglecting your crafts to a greater or lesser-degree, and detract from clear and level-headed thinking in war. Likewise, when one throws themselves fully into their studies, research, or employ only a logical approach to things they may miss out on the wonders of sex and romantic and/or erotic love (after all, few people like to repeatedly screw someone that has the romantic capacity of a thumbtack, just saying). But the ability to disrupt the domains of one another does not mean that they are antithetical to each other. indeed, I think they can compliment one another quite well.
When you indulge in the pleasures of Aphrodite in moderation (and in a safe way) you at the very least fulfill a biological urge that could otherwise lead to a psychological tension and stress and a feeling of depression (I know that going without sex for a long time makes me grow lethargic, apathetic, and extremely sad as well as generating anxiety for some reason) at the best one gets a strong and solid partner (or partners if that is your thing) who will help support you in your endeavors and pursuits, and this is where Aphrodite's blessings compliment Athene's blessings. The blessings associated with Athene often also come with a lot of stress (be it becoming a good teacher, a good student, good at your art, a skilled tactician, or a myriad number of other things) which a person may find bearable going solo for a while, but which grind down on you over time. A partner can be a vital source of support and encouragement in your endeavors, allowing you to drive on with strength and a focus of vision that you might not have otherwise. So, Aphrodite compliments Athene, but how does Athene compliment Aphrodite?
Anyone who has been in a relationship knows one thing, inevitably you will have a conflict of some sort. It is what happens. This doesn't just go for romantic relationships, friends, bosses and employees, teachers and students, roomies, parents with their children, the list goes on. Any form of human relationship will generate conflict at some point if they are around each other for long enough. A big part of being able to deal with and sustain the relationship though, is not allowing the conflict to become overblown. This is especially vital with romantic relationships since letting strife get to severe levels will cause a lot of pain, conflict, and grief for both parties and will likely lead to the dissolution of the relationship (which will likely cause wretched and horrid amounts of emotional agony.) Staying calm and level-headed can help prevent these inevitable conflicts from getting out of control, and thus can preserve the integrity of the relationship. On a more purely physical note, Athene allows the gifts of Aphrodite to be enjoyed responsibly. It can be all too easy to get wrapped up in the lust and passion of the moment and forget to behave responsibly, which can lead to accidental pregnancies or catching STDs both of which can generate equal amounts of heartache and/or despair and difficulty. Enjoying Aphrodite's gifts but having the clarity to enjoy them responsibly is vital and requires an amount of level-thinking despite the emotional intensity (and this goes double for turning down sex because you lack a condom or the ability to use/acquire/you forgot to take that morning birthcontrol.) Athene compliments Aphrodite's domains even at their most physical and most shallow levels.
We can see then, that like many Gods, Athene and Aphrodite compliment each other wonderfully.
I would like for everyone to keep in mind though, these are not the only ways in which they compliment and support one another, nor do these things contain the expression of the entirety of their domains. The Gods are complex entities which support each other in a variety of ways.
Aphrodite and Athene are not fundamentally opposed to one another. Mythically, they had conflicts at times and they had tensions between one another, indeed, it can be pretty clear that being madly in love with someone can detract from scholarly studies, cause one to act foolishly, excessive love-making may lead to a neglect of certain household duities and tasks as well as neglecting your crafts to a greater or lesser-degree, and detract from clear and level-headed thinking in war. Likewise, when one throws themselves fully into their studies, research, or employ only a logical approach to things they may miss out on the wonders of sex and romantic and/or erotic love (after all, few people like to repeatedly screw someone that has the romantic capacity of a thumbtack, just saying). But the ability to disrupt the domains of one another does not mean that they are antithetical to each other. indeed, I think they can compliment one another quite well.
When you indulge in the pleasures of Aphrodite in moderation (and in a safe way) you at the very least fulfill a biological urge that could otherwise lead to a psychological tension and stress and a feeling of depression (I know that going without sex for a long time makes me grow lethargic, apathetic, and extremely sad as well as generating anxiety for some reason) at the best one gets a strong and solid partner (or partners if that is your thing) who will help support you in your endeavors and pursuits, and this is where Aphrodite's blessings compliment Athene's blessings. The blessings associated with Athene often also come with a lot of stress (be it becoming a good teacher, a good student, good at your art, a skilled tactician, or a myriad number of other things) which a person may find bearable going solo for a while, but which grind down on you over time. A partner can be a vital source of support and encouragement in your endeavors, allowing you to drive on with strength and a focus of vision that you might not have otherwise. So, Aphrodite compliments Athene, but how does Athene compliment Aphrodite?
Anyone who has been in a relationship knows one thing, inevitably you will have a conflict of some sort. It is what happens. This doesn't just go for romantic relationships, friends, bosses and employees, teachers and students, roomies, parents with their children, the list goes on. Any form of human relationship will generate conflict at some point if they are around each other for long enough. A big part of being able to deal with and sustain the relationship though, is not allowing the conflict to become overblown. This is especially vital with romantic relationships since letting strife get to severe levels will cause a lot of pain, conflict, and grief for both parties and will likely lead to the dissolution of the relationship (which will likely cause wretched and horrid amounts of emotional agony.) Staying calm and level-headed can help prevent these inevitable conflicts from getting out of control, and thus can preserve the integrity of the relationship. On a more purely physical note, Athene allows the gifts of Aphrodite to be enjoyed responsibly. It can be all too easy to get wrapped up in the lust and passion of the moment and forget to behave responsibly, which can lead to accidental pregnancies or catching STDs both of which can generate equal amounts of heartache and/or despair and difficulty. Enjoying Aphrodite's gifts but having the clarity to enjoy them responsibly is vital and requires an amount of level-thinking despite the emotional intensity (and this goes double for turning down sex because you lack a condom or the ability to use/acquire/you forgot to take that morning birthcontrol.) Athene compliments Aphrodite's domains even at their most physical and most shallow levels.
We can see then, that like many Gods, Athene and Aphrodite compliment each other wonderfully.
I would like for everyone to keep in mind though, these are not the only ways in which they compliment and support one another, nor do these things contain the expression of the entirety of their domains. The Gods are complex entities which support each other in a variety of ways.
 |
| The Judgement of Paris by The Consortium on flickr |
Saturday, May 18, 2013
Odd-Man Out
So, this recent debate on Superhero Worship has highlighted some things for me once again.
When I read and re-read Sunweaver's initial post the thing I am most struck by is that she is using the word Hero in a modern sense to describe it in an ancient sense. There is a projection of modern connotation onto an ancient word and the ancient understanding of heroes. Her comments below address this fact, but her writing and an inevitable implication and projection of the modern unto the ancient, as well as a blatant disregard for the ancient conception of heroes in favor of the modern usage of the word (which would be fine if she was not specifically talking about hero worship in a Hellenic context). It rapidly became clear to me that the disconnect and the tension in the thread between she and the lovely Ruadhán is that they are approaching it from different spheres of what is important. to Ruadhán the thing of import is talking about the phrase as it related to the ancient conception of the hero cult, to Sunweaver the thing of import was her own personal relation to the word regardless of the cultic associations or implications that may be present.
Ah-ha, now I'm getting it.
As I further examined the comments on her article, the most striking thing is that of the people who strongly agreed with her, there was a high disregard for academic study and drawing from ancient sources, and the viewpoint that because it is inspired from ancient sources it cannot be relevant to our modern life and a general misunderstanding of the reconstructionist methodology. The user kenofken stated "I'm never going to re-create the exact relationship with the gods and each other that the ancients had. It would be a waste of time and maladaptive even if I could. I have to engage my religion and everything else in the here and now." to which Sunweaver gave an enthusiastic response to and implied that people who are disagreeing with her are taking the myths literally or the deeds of the heroes literally (not a chance in hell. Haven't met a single person who takes the deeds of the heroes literally.) and the user Erin Lowe states "I think this is a fascinating article in what speaks to a lot of people. Why look into dusty old books for your religion? The much venerated ancients were sorta making it up as they go along! And why not modernize and change things? They did that too!" which is kind of very inaccurate. Things changed, but many and most things stayed the same. We can see this reflected in the Shinto faith and realize that while they went through phases and changes, the bulk of practices and beliefs and festivals stayed the same (who could be priests and participate in matsuri changed over time mainly). So, traditions arose at some point in time, but were also maintained and sustained over time, and we see this with many other faiths which hold tradition in high regard and have continued to hold it in high regard. But I digress.
The comments on her blog and elsewhere give me a clear indication that the fundamental disconnect plays into the fact that those who identify as Recons and those who don't seem to really differ in the fact that 1) Many of the stances of non-Recons tend to be a reaction to a Christian culture assimilating some objections mostly employed by Atheists (such as, it is old, it couldn't possibly be relevant) and 2) Have a larger focus on what things, words, rites, and concepts mean for them personally and generally are in favor of disregarding what they meant for the culture in question of which they are very loosely drawing their beliefs from. Their stance is a reactionary one and is in staunch opposition to anything which remotely reminds them of the larger Christian culture.
That is fine, it works for them, I get it. It is also bringing up yet again, straight in my face, that there are major disconnects between Neo-Pagans and Recons and their derivatives. Reconstructionism is not something that stands in opposition to Christianity nor does it allow you to be centric on yourself and nor does it go 'As long as it lets you cope with the world!'. There is less plasticity (but there is still plenty, I assure you) than Neo-Pagan inspired faiths allow or have, and our separate cultures and tendencies seems to be a source of perpetual tension for us.
Don't get me wrong, this isn't a slam against those people, I firmly believe that the Reconstructionist Methodology isn't for everyone, but it has reminded me that at the end of the day, after it is all said and done, I cannot be a fully integrated part of the Pagan Community. I will always feel a certain disconnect and will probably continue to feel uncomfortable when an enthusiastic and bright-eyed girl talks to me about how Hades is a heavy God and tells me about how the Eleusian mysteries were revealed to her by Persephone to be about compassion. The people are nice, and we can worship together, but the longer I'm around and active in the community the more I realize that to a greater or lesser degree, I'm going to always be the odd-man out.
When I read and re-read Sunweaver's initial post the thing I am most struck by is that she is using the word Hero in a modern sense to describe it in an ancient sense. There is a projection of modern connotation onto an ancient word and the ancient understanding of heroes. Her comments below address this fact, but her writing and an inevitable implication and projection of the modern unto the ancient, as well as a blatant disregard for the ancient conception of heroes in favor of the modern usage of the word (which would be fine if she was not specifically talking about hero worship in a Hellenic context). It rapidly became clear to me that the disconnect and the tension in the thread between she and the lovely Ruadhán is that they are approaching it from different spheres of what is important. to Ruadhán the thing of import is talking about the phrase as it related to the ancient conception of the hero cult, to Sunweaver the thing of import was her own personal relation to the word regardless of the cultic associations or implications that may be present.
Ah-ha, now I'm getting it.
As I further examined the comments on her article, the most striking thing is that of the people who strongly agreed with her, there was a high disregard for academic study and drawing from ancient sources, and the viewpoint that because it is inspired from ancient sources it cannot be relevant to our modern life and a general misunderstanding of the reconstructionist methodology. The user kenofken stated "I'm never going to re-create the exact relationship with the gods and each other that the ancients had. It would be a waste of time and maladaptive even if I could. I have to engage my religion and everything else in the here and now." to which Sunweaver gave an enthusiastic response to and implied that people who are disagreeing with her are taking the myths literally or the deeds of the heroes literally (not a chance in hell. Haven't met a single person who takes the deeds of the heroes literally.) and the user Erin Lowe states "I think this is a fascinating article in what speaks to a lot of people. Why look into dusty old books for your religion? The much venerated ancients were sorta making it up as they go along! And why not modernize and change things? They did that too!" which is kind of very inaccurate. Things changed, but many and most things stayed the same. We can see this reflected in the Shinto faith and realize that while they went through phases and changes, the bulk of practices and beliefs and festivals stayed the same (who could be priests and participate in matsuri changed over time mainly). So, traditions arose at some point in time, but were also maintained and sustained over time, and we see this with many other faiths which hold tradition in high regard and have continued to hold it in high regard. But I digress.
The comments on her blog and elsewhere give me a clear indication that the fundamental disconnect plays into the fact that those who identify as Recons and those who don't seem to really differ in the fact that 1) Many of the stances of non-Recons tend to be a reaction to a Christian culture assimilating some objections mostly employed by Atheists (such as, it is old, it couldn't possibly be relevant) and 2) Have a larger focus on what things, words, rites, and concepts mean for them personally and generally are in favor of disregarding what they meant for the culture in question of which they are very loosely drawing their beliefs from. Their stance is a reactionary one and is in staunch opposition to anything which remotely reminds them of the larger Christian culture.
That is fine, it works for them, I get it. It is also bringing up yet again, straight in my face, that there are major disconnects between Neo-Pagans and Recons and their derivatives. Reconstructionism is not something that stands in opposition to Christianity nor does it allow you to be centric on yourself and nor does it go 'As long as it lets you cope with the world!'. There is less plasticity (but there is still plenty, I assure you) than Neo-Pagan inspired faiths allow or have, and our separate cultures and tendencies seems to be a source of perpetual tension for us.
Don't get me wrong, this isn't a slam against those people, I firmly believe that the Reconstructionist Methodology isn't for everyone, but it has reminded me that at the end of the day, after it is all said and done, I cannot be a fully integrated part of the Pagan Community. I will always feel a certain disconnect and will probably continue to feel uncomfortable when an enthusiastic and bright-eyed girl talks to me about how Hades is a heavy God and tells me about how the Eleusian mysteries were revealed to her by Persephone to be about compassion. The people are nice, and we can worship together, but the longer I'm around and active in the community the more I realize that to a greater or lesser degree, I'm going to always be the odd-man out.
 |
| Black Sheep by Freedy_Ng on flickr |
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Monday, May 13, 2013
ANNOUNCEMENT: Starting up a station on BlogTalk!
Have you ever wanted to hear my soothing baritone voice tell you the story of the castration of Uranus by Kronos? If so, you are in luck! Starting June I will be launching a Radio Station dedicated to 1) Telling the stories of the Greek Gods (and maybe the stories of other Gods as the fancy hits me!) 2) and providing a voice, place, and resource for young pagans in the community.
Why young pagans?
Well, young pagans seem to be a rarity, with the majority of active pagans on the net, and in real life seeming to be between the ages of 30-50. This is even more so with Recons, I know quite a few reconstructionists and I can only think of two others who are under 25. Often times it seems like the young and/or inexperienced are afraid to ask questions and express their own thoughts and opinions. So, in addition to young Pagans this radio station will always be geared towards highly inexperienced folks of all ages.
Now you may be asking 'Well Conor, aren't you young and inexperienced? How are you going to make this a resource for those people when you yourself are part of that group?' well, imaginary person, that is easy enough. I'm going to get folks on the show who want to discuss and elaborate on a topic, give a mini-lecture if you will, on a subject particular to their faith. I would like to get folks from many different faiths, especially reconstructionist ones. At the end of your 'lesson' we will open up the lines for listeners to ask questions and get you to clear things up for them. For speakers, I'm looking mainly for folks who have been of their faith for several years and who have a good handle on what they are talking about.
I'm planning for the shows to take place Sunday nights, with the stories taking place every 1st and 3rd Sunday and with the 'Lectures' taking place every 2nd and 4th Sunday, at least tentatively.
If you would like to be a speaker, send me an e-mail at fathergia@gmail.com
A QUICK NOTE:
By young I am meaning 18-25ish age range. Not children necessarily. The shows will potentially be 18+ in language, but the lessons may be useful to Pagans with kids or something. I DUNNO. You'll just have to listen and figure it out (because trust me when I say I'll be winging this a bit too)
Why young pagans?
Well, young pagans seem to be a rarity, with the majority of active pagans on the net, and in real life seeming to be between the ages of 30-50. This is even more so with Recons, I know quite a few reconstructionists and I can only think of two others who are under 25. Often times it seems like the young and/or inexperienced are afraid to ask questions and express their own thoughts and opinions. So, in addition to young Pagans this radio station will always be geared towards highly inexperienced folks of all ages.
Now you may be asking 'Well Conor, aren't you young and inexperienced? How are you going to make this a resource for those people when you yourself are part of that group?' well, imaginary person, that is easy enough. I'm going to get folks on the show who want to discuss and elaborate on a topic, give a mini-lecture if you will, on a subject particular to their faith. I would like to get folks from many different faiths, especially reconstructionist ones. At the end of your 'lesson' we will open up the lines for listeners to ask questions and get you to clear things up for them. For speakers, I'm looking mainly for folks who have been of their faith for several years and who have a good handle on what they are talking about.
I'm planning for the shows to take place Sunday nights, with the stories taking place every 1st and 3rd Sunday and with the 'Lectures' taking place every 2nd and 4th Sunday, at least tentatively.
If you would like to be a speaker, send me an e-mail at fathergia@gmail.com
A QUICK NOTE:
By young I am meaning 18-25ish age range. Not children necessarily. The shows will potentially be 18+ in language, but the lessons may be useful to Pagans with kids or something. I DUNNO. You'll just have to listen and figure it out (because trust me when I say I'll be winging this a bit too)
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
I Am America (and So Can You!) [Book Review]
Do you want to be America? Then you have to be Stephen Colbert, America's most American American. He socks the facts fast and hard, with little concern for if they have any basis in reality, because Mr. Colbert knows that the truest facts come straight from the gut.
The book opens up brilliantly, and hits the ground running with the "Congratulations-just by opening the cover of this book you became 25% more patriotic" and in the intro he states "I am no fan of books, and chances are, if you're reading this, you and I share a healthy skepticism about the printed word." and then explains "Now you might ask yourself, if by yourself you mean me, 'Stephen if you don't like books why did you write one?' You asked yourself a trick question. I didn't write it. I dictated it. I shouted it into a tape recorder over the Columbus Day weekend, then handed it to my agent and said, 'Sell this.' This sets-up the tone of the rest of this satirical little book (which actually exceeds 200 pages).
The book is quite good. I had my fair share of laughs and the writers (there were multiple including Mr. Colbert) executed and pulled off translating Stephen's style of comedy into textual format largely through the use of footnotes and side messages in the margins which helped simulate Stephen's habit of pausing a moment after making a normal statement and then following it up with something absurd. It also followed the habit of his popular 'The Word' segment with adding little plays on words and situations that are tangential to what he is discussing. Much of the book is quite amusing (it has aged well, I must say). The highest point though, is that it includes glorious, glorious stickers, which was really the major selling point for me.
The book does have its down-sides though, namely that it can be very repetitive and predictable at some points. Often times you can see the joke coming which sadly takes away a lot of the impact and potential hilarity of the joke. Fortunately, this doesn't happen very often which helped mitigate the damage his occasional repetitiveness had.
Another note, is that you should be aware that this book is satire, specifically it is a satire of Far-Right folks and the entire book is a caricature of certain positions they hold. I do see it having potential to offend certain moderates as well, so just know what you are walking into
Score: 7/10 'Muricas
The book opens up brilliantly, and hits the ground running with the "Congratulations-just by opening the cover of this book you became 25% more patriotic" and in the intro he states "I am no fan of books, and chances are, if you're reading this, you and I share a healthy skepticism about the printed word." and then explains "Now you might ask yourself, if by yourself you mean me, 'Stephen if you don't like books why did you write one?' You asked yourself a trick question. I didn't write it. I dictated it. I shouted it into a tape recorder over the Columbus Day weekend, then handed it to my agent and said, 'Sell this.' This sets-up the tone of the rest of this satirical little book (which actually exceeds 200 pages).
The book is quite good. I had my fair share of laughs and the writers (there were multiple including Mr. Colbert) executed and pulled off translating Stephen's style of comedy into textual format largely through the use of footnotes and side messages in the margins which helped simulate Stephen's habit of pausing a moment after making a normal statement and then following it up with something absurd. It also followed the habit of his popular 'The Word' segment with adding little plays on words and situations that are tangential to what he is discussing. Much of the book is quite amusing (it has aged well, I must say). The highest point though, is that it includes glorious, glorious stickers, which was really the major selling point for me.
The book does have its down-sides though, namely that it can be very repetitive and predictable at some points. Often times you can see the joke coming which sadly takes away a lot of the impact and potential hilarity of the joke. Fortunately, this doesn't happen very often which helped mitigate the damage his occasional repetitiveness had.
Another note, is that you should be aware that this book is satire, specifically it is a satire of Far-Right folks and the entire book is a caricature of certain positions they hold. I do see it having potential to offend certain moderates as well, so just know what you are walking into
Score: 7/10 'Muricas
Monday, May 6, 2013
Devotional to Dionysus
I would like to note that all this was/is hand-written in a blank
journal so I can't just copy/paste things for y'all. I feel that writing
it down in a journal first is a great thing, because it makes you think
very carefully about what you have written and selected to include in
the devotional.
A few more notes, as I have typed this as I have it written a few personal assumptions are made, because I wrote it myself. This is mainly evident in the THUSIA section. I assumed that incense would be burned, and libations would be made. Also be aware that this is designed to be performed at a personal shrine, hence why there is no procession and why the purification is more simple. I have not designed it to be performed at a blazing altar, but it could easily be altered (see what I did there?) to be done as so.
This is the first devotional I ever designed ( but not the first one that I posted here)
PURIFICATION:
Sprinkle yourself with lustral water
HYMNODIA:
Homeric Hymn to Hestia
Hail, daughter of Kronos, now I will remember you and another song also
Homeric Hymns to Dionysus
I will tell of Dionysus, the son of glorious Semele, how he appeared on a jutting headland by the shore of the fruitless sea, seeming like a stripling in the first flush of manhood. His rich, dark hair was waving about him, and on his strong shoulders he wore a purple robe.
I begin to sing of Dionysus, the loud-crying God, splendid son of Zeus and glorious Semele. The rich-haired Nymphs received him in their bosoms from the lord his father and fostered and nutured him carefully in the dells of Nysa; where by the will of his father he grew up in a sweet-smelling cave, being reckoned among the Immortals. But when they had brough him up, a God oft hymned, then began he to wander continually through the woody combs thickly wreathed with ivy and laurel. And the Nymphs followed in his train with him for their leader, and the boundless forest was filled with their outcry. And so hail to you, Dionysus, god of abundant clusters! Grant that we may come again rejoicing to this season, and from that season onwards for many a year.
Homeric Hymn to Hestia
Hestia, in the high dwellings of all, both deathless gods and men who walk on Earth, you have gained an everlasting abode and highest honor. Glorious is your portion and your right, for without you mortals hold no banquet where one does not duly pour sweet wine in offering to Hestia both first and last
PRAYERS:
Giver prayers and thanks
THUSIA:
'Dionysus, come now and accept my offerings'
Give to Hestia the first, then give to Dionysus the incense and food offerings, then votive, then make a libation, then give to Hestia the last.
CLOSING:
Enjoy a drink or some food at the shrine. Contemplate, then leave.
A few more notes, as I have typed this as I have it written a few personal assumptions are made, because I wrote it myself. This is mainly evident in the THUSIA section. I assumed that incense would be burned, and libations would be made. Also be aware that this is designed to be performed at a personal shrine, hence why there is no procession and why the purification is more simple. I have not designed it to be performed at a blazing altar, but it could easily be altered (see what I did there?) to be done as so.
This is the first devotional I ever designed ( but not the first one that I posted here)
PURIFICATION:
Sprinkle yourself with lustral water
HYMNODIA:
Homeric Hymn to Hestia
Hail, daughter of Kronos, now I will remember you and another song also
Homeric Hymns to Dionysus
I will tell of Dionysus, the son of glorious Semele, how he appeared on a jutting headland by the shore of the fruitless sea, seeming like a stripling in the first flush of manhood. His rich, dark hair was waving about him, and on his strong shoulders he wore a purple robe.
I begin to sing of Dionysus, the loud-crying God, splendid son of Zeus and glorious Semele. The rich-haired Nymphs received him in their bosoms from the lord his father and fostered and nutured him carefully in the dells of Nysa; where by the will of his father he grew up in a sweet-smelling cave, being reckoned among the Immortals. But when they had brough him up, a God oft hymned, then began he to wander continually through the woody combs thickly wreathed with ivy and laurel. And the Nymphs followed in his train with him for their leader, and the boundless forest was filled with their outcry. And so hail to you, Dionysus, god of abundant clusters! Grant that we may come again rejoicing to this season, and from that season onwards for many a year.
Homeric Hymn to Hestia
Hestia, in the high dwellings of all, both deathless gods and men who walk on Earth, you have gained an everlasting abode and highest honor. Glorious is your portion and your right, for without you mortals hold no banquet where one does not duly pour sweet wine in offering to Hestia both first and last
PRAYERS:
Giver prayers and thanks
THUSIA:
'Dionysus, come now and accept my offerings'
Give to Hestia the first, then give to Dionysus the incense and food offerings, then votive, then make a libation, then give to Hestia the last.
CLOSING:
Enjoy a drink or some food at the shrine. Contemplate, then leave.
Thursday, May 2, 2013
Shade (Poetry)
I am the shade you have rested under
To escape the overabundance of Helios
Whether or not you use my gifts is of no importance
I will provide them
And I will feel the sun regardless
So it is for you
Not for myself
That I throw my shade
To escape the overabundance of Helios
Whether or not you use my gifts is of no importance
I will provide them
And I will feel the sun regardless
So it is for you
Not for myself
That I throw my shade
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Know Yourself (Σαυτον ισθι)
(DISCLAIMER: I do not claim to be an expert on anything. I'm merely
giving my opinions and interpretations as I see them as being
applicable. We are not an absolutist faith, nor do I personally regard
this as "infallible" hence why I see the need to update things to a
modern equivalency)
Maxim: Σαυτον ισθι or "Know yourself"
Plain Interpretation: Be introspective
So, this is one of the more well known and liked maxims if my observations serve correctly, and I have seen it plastered here or there a couple of times, yet some people seem to be using it with an air of inappropriateness.A means or way to just say 'Fuck you' to expectations and obligations to and from society at will, which I don't believe is the intent of the maxim at all. The ancient Athenians, like many ancient peoples, had a full understanding that every person had certain societal obligations that they had to fulfill whether they wanted to or not. Some folks had to step into the hereditary priesthood, you had to get military experience, you had to do your stint in the Jury, and yes, you had a certain obligation to produce an heir (even if you fancied Lads over Ladys). A maxim would not have arisen which amounted to 'Fuck it all! Do what is true to you, and only do that!' as some modernists would like to interpret it. Which, is perfectly fine and well I suppose.
I see it as a call to introspect though. Who are you what do you believe about the Gods? What have the Gods done for you? Who are the important people in your life? How do you function in others? So on and so forth on a great number of issues, your own feelings, the source of those feelings, your beliefs and their source. In doing this, we are better able to suss out our life in general and what actions we can take that will benefit ourselves AND those around us. It is not a call to ignore obligations, rather it is a call to figure out the source of things and examine your own psyche.
An added benefit to this, I believe, is that by knowing ourselves better we can build a relationship with the Gods that is more wholesome and good. We can plant the seeds of gratitude more efficiently when we know where the soil in our minds is fertile and where it is barren. For example, I like to eat, but I used to (and sometimes still do) have trouble remembering to do the morning devotional. I figured out that if I force myself to do the devotional before I eat I am more likely to remember it. This has GREATLY improved my consistency with doing my morning devotionals.
Now I just need to apply a method that will help me improve my consistency with the evening ones.
Maxim: Σαυτον ισθι or "Know yourself"
Plain Interpretation: Be introspective
So, this is one of the more well known and liked maxims if my observations serve correctly, and I have seen it plastered here or there a couple of times, yet some people seem to be using it with an air of inappropriateness.A means or way to just say 'Fuck you' to expectations and obligations to and from society at will, which I don't believe is the intent of the maxim at all. The ancient Athenians, like many ancient peoples, had a full understanding that every person had certain societal obligations that they had to fulfill whether they wanted to or not. Some folks had to step into the hereditary priesthood, you had to get military experience, you had to do your stint in the Jury, and yes, you had a certain obligation to produce an heir (even if you fancied Lads over Ladys). A maxim would not have arisen which amounted to 'Fuck it all! Do what is true to you, and only do that!' as some modernists would like to interpret it. Which, is perfectly fine and well I suppose.
I see it as a call to introspect though. Who are you what do you believe about the Gods? What have the Gods done for you? Who are the important people in your life? How do you function in others? So on and so forth on a great number of issues, your own feelings, the source of those feelings, your beliefs and their source. In doing this, we are better able to suss out our life in general and what actions we can take that will benefit ourselves AND those around us. It is not a call to ignore obligations, rather it is a call to figure out the source of things and examine your own psyche.
An added benefit to this, I believe, is that by knowing ourselves better we can build a relationship with the Gods that is more wholesome and good. We can plant the seeds of gratitude more efficiently when we know where the soil in our minds is fertile and where it is barren. For example, I like to eat, but I used to (and sometimes still do) have trouble remembering to do the morning devotional. I figured out that if I force myself to do the devotional before I eat I am more likely to remember it. This has GREATLY improved my consistency with doing my morning devotionals.
Now I just need to apply a method that will help me improve my consistency with the evening ones.
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| Mind Warp by Gambafrolla on Flickr |
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About Me
- Conor W.
- Texas
- A young man living in North Texas. He is an actor, a Hellenistos, and a proud member of Hellenion.