Our Burning Times

[Myrde]

This term is used alot, especially by Wiccans. SOme use it out of fear for what was and what could be, and some out of respect for those who perished during those times. The earliest was at Ynys Mons, when the stronghold fell to the Romans. Then, years, later, with those who were burned to the stake by the Church.

Even today, the Burning Times are no longer over. Each one of us who embarks on this path will face our own Burning Time... when we reveal to the world who we are and what we believe. And many of us are cast out to the dark and cold world, friendless and alone.

These are my fears. My Burning Time is coming. And soon, I'm afraid.

In order to understand why I am the way I am right now, you need to know a few things about me.



I was born to an Irish-Catholic family and raised as such. Now, by comparison, the Catholics are not as die-hard as many other Christian groups, though they do follow a very strict doctrine. I was always the alterboy up at the alter helping the priest with mass, I was the perfect CCD student, I looked away from anything that might be a sin, and I said my prayers every night. I was young, so very young.



There was one thing that captivated me even more that my faith. I began reading at a very young age. And to put it in the mildest of terms, I was enchanted. The old tales and legends were my absolute favorite. Tales of knights, and dragons. And magic. Magic was always a close favorite. I read of Arthur and his knights as they founded Camelot, of fair Nimue and Merlin locked in their towers. I sailed with the Geats to Hrothgar's halls where Beowulf slew Grendel. I laughed under the forests of Sherwood as one of Robin's Merry-Men, and I was on the field of battle against the Moors as Roland blew his horn. I was there at Troy when Paris pierced Achille's with his arrow, and with Odysseus as he sailed for home. I watched as Hercules burned himself on his funeral parlor, and as Perseus turned his uncle to stone. I helped Odin remove his eye for the Well or Mirmir and heard the howl of Fenrir the wolf. I devoured the Arabian Nights tale by tale and felt the creaking of the wooden ship beneath me as Sinbad sailed to distant lands.



I was at a tender age where anything was real for me. And I believed it all whole heartedly. I wanted to believe it. For me, Magic existed everywhere. I talked to trees, in an attempt to coax out their spirits, the dryads. I spent warm summer nights sitting by the edges of fairy rings, hoping that the Fae would come. Every rainbow I chased for it's end, hoping to see one of the little folk, and I sat for hours on the edge of the sea rocks of my home, hoping to spy a selkie, a kelpie, or a sea monster. And I loved every second of it.



But alas… nothing stays the same forever. The arrow of time points in only one direction. Like all things, I grew, and as I grew older, the innocence and the joys of the past fell away faster than they would for a normal child. While other children had spent playing and joining their "clicks", I had spent my time alone, reading and dreaming. I was a lonely child, but it manageable. But as I grew older, I grew more and more bitter and lonely. My reading continued, but now it extended to the Arts, Sciences, History, and Math. I continued to read and absorb everything I could. My desire for knowledge was unsatiable.



As I grew older and left my world of Magic… I became a bit of a "fanatic" as to my faith. I was never as fanatical as some nutjobs out there, but I did grow less tolerable. I cast a dark eye upon all faiths other than my own, believing mine to be the only true one. I secretly wished for another Holy War, so that I might prove myself to my God, and even fancied a time when my enemies would burn in the fires of Hell. I was filled with so much hate and anger; at myself and at those who mocked and taunted me, making me feel like less of a human being.

Looking back on him... that person now terrifies me...



Then… about a year and a half ago, my "corruption" began. My Psychology teacher, whom I much admired and had many thought provoking and philosophical discussions with, made mention of a book to me. It was a novel by the title of "Island". The author was Huxely, the same man who wrote "Brave New World". Infact, Island was the companion book to Brave New World. I have read many books of such nature countless times and had them committed to heart. 1984, Animal farm, and all of them. But I had never heard of Island before. I saw that it was apart of my teacher's personal collection in his closet. I stole it when he wasn't looking, and I finished it in one night. "Island" was perhaps the most influential book of my life. In the sense that BNW showed a flawed, negative Utopia, but a Utopia in every sense of the world, Island portrayed a perfect, desirable Utopia. it covered so many issues. I returned it the next day to my teacher, with my own observations and comments. He was okay with it, knowing how fast I read, and was surprised that I was so troubled by it. Because I was, the book had rocked how I thought of things. I began to doubt both what I believed in, and why I was believing it.



Like everything, at last I decided my own information was insufficient, and to form my own opinions. I tackled every religious book I could find. And when I mean every, I meant everything. East, West, old, new. It didn't matter. I read unorthodox pieces, and as many things about my faith and others that I could. I also dwelt upon the history of each religion, and its actions. I also focused on Philosophy. Nothing was spared in my search, and I read as many things as I could get my hands on. By the end of it, I was an emotional and mental wreck. So many beliefs, concepts, theories, and ideas were running around in my head. I was doing what no man should ever do. I was looking for the Truth of the world and how it worked. And I had millennia of human mistakes and alteration working against me. Some nights I spent weeping, others my body burned with rage.



After awhile, I decided to strip away the myths from my faith and focus on what I believed. I did a lot of soul searching. Here's what I decided:



Is there a God-like figure who is behind the motions of the world and mankind?

Yes.

Was there, at one point, a man named Jesus who preached the word of God, and was thus executed for it?

Yes.

Was this man the Son of God, and did he come back from the Dead?

I have no idea. I'll admit it.

Do I believe the creator of the infinite multi-verse revealed himself solely to some desert dwelling people ONLY?

Heck no.

Was Jesus a man of foresight and someone way ahead of his time, just like Buddha, Socrates, and Confucius?

Yes.

Has the original message and meaning of this man's teaching twisted and convulsed for the personal gain of those in power?

Yes.

Have wars been waged, innocent people slaughtered, lands turned barren, and atrocities committed in the name of this man, who, according to his teachings, would have condemned such actions?

Yes.



By now, I was beyond bothered. I had stripped away everything and examined the facts. I didn't know what to believe. My faith was being bent in hundred of directions, and I didn't know the right path. Buddhism appealed strong to me, however I wasn't comfortable with some aspects.



Its kinda interesting how a song can lead you to the answer. I found this one piece... and... out of respect for him, I'm going to keep him anonymous. He is one of the OBOD, but thats it. I consider him my teacher. But anyway, being the literature buff that I am. At first, I thought he was just another medieval musician like a few other guys out there, but then I began to explore alot of his other songs. I was intrigued by them, they spoke of something I had never heard of. I was at ease when listening to them, and excited, for I delved deeper into his lyrics.



What I found was a religion and philosophy older than I could have imagined. I found the Old Ways once more, and this path was just as rocky as my Island journey. There was so unbelievably much to uncover and research and understand; to separate the true from the false, the real from the imposter. But I based my work around the man whom I consider my teacher and what he believed in and what he saw in the world. Because... thats what I believe, or rather, want to believe. I've never performed any of the rituals or gatherings or celebrations. But... there was a moment that I actually knew that I believed in what he... what all of you do.... It was several months ago, last summer infact, and the moon was out and full. I saw it, and made a small prayer to the Goddess to help me and give me the strength to continue to the path I set myself on.

My eyes are open, for before they were shut. For the first time in who knows how many years, I am happy. I feel at peace with what I believe it, and believe it to be true. More importantly, I feel at peace with myself for I think... the first time ever. And if others don't understand why, I am okay with that as well. I'm happy now. I wish to remain so. Blessed be, for I have found something worth believing in. For me, there is still just a little bit of Magic left in this world of ours.



My Burning Time is coming very soon Im not sure how much more I can keep this a secret.

Should I tell my parents what I now choose to believe? They're catholic as well, and they're much more moderate Catholics than what I was. Its just, Im afraid that if I do, I won't have a roof to sleep under, or a bed to sleep in the following night. Please don't get the wrong idea, they're absolutely wonderful parents, and I am blessed in so many different ways to have them. I couldn't ask of anything more from them, they've given me a wonderful life and have raised me properly and with a strong set of morals and ethics. I love them both, and I know they love me. But... I was showing my mother a "Coexist" sign with all the different signs of faith incorporated into it, and I pointed out our symbol. She called it, and I quote the "the pagan-devil-evil-witchcraft thing". Needless to say, the blood drained from my face. I know its from ignorance of the whole situation and the background, because thats what they've been brought up with. I just... I need help. I don't know how to go about this, or what to do, or even if I should.

I have already contacted my "teacher" about this, and to my surprise, he actually contacted me back, and with very useful words of advice.

But... from a young Druid to those of the Order... what were your Burning Times? What happened? How did people react? And what advice can you share with me?

Blessed Be, everyone.

[Huathe]

Myrde,

I really don't know what advice to give you on telling your parents. I would say tell them but it getting you kicked out would not be a good thing. You may have to keep it quiet for awhile for self-preservation. Your choice is a difficult one. I know it is hard to hide the person you are. The person you have become. I feel for you.

My path of druidry is a blended one. I am a Christian Druid. I believe in God. I believe in Jesus being the Son of God. I believe in Angels and the existance of Satan, etc. But I also believe in magic. I believe spirits inhabit all living things ( Animism ). I believe that God is our heavenly father and Dana is our earth mother. I revere my ancestors and am nature's friend. I respect all living things.

To put it short. I do not understand a lot of the thoughts of Christian people. Why they are put off by people who are seekers. People who don't quite accept without question. I don't think Christ would want Christians to burn all pagans. What kind of example would that really make?

My burning time? I have gotten off pretty easy so far. My dad does not like the word " druid " very much and thinks it sounds a bit flakey. I think he would like the use of the term " Christian Naturist " better. Mom was a bit worried at first that I was going pagan. My sister, Becky has wholly supported my druidic persuits in every way. Though technically a Christian, she has many pagan interests.

Good luck my friend. Keep searching yourself and you will find yourself. I good course in druidry may help you. It has me. I am sure OBOD's courses are very good. I would also recommend those of the New Order Of Druids. Their's are free and very good! The NOD courses have really helped me find myself and learn much more about myself, my spiritual beliefs and of course about druidry as well.

Good luck on your journey.

http://www.druidcircle.org/nod/index.php?Itemid=145

Huathe

[Badger Bob]

Hello Myrde

I see you are quite young and it is usually difficult for the young to convince the older generations that they have found another way that works. I grew up in a family that was formed from many different traditions, including Roman Catholic but my parents had already made the break that made it easier for me to go out and find something for myself. I would suggest just living the life and exploring Druidry without the label, people often object to the label "druid" more than the actual practice of Druidry. I rarely call myself a Druid as I find it sometimes gets in the way of enjoying a Christian church service, a Pagan circle or a Hindu puja. Applying a label to your path can be limiting just as much as it can be liberating, never pass up an opportunity to learn something new even if it isn't strictly "on your path" so to speak.

[DJ Droood]

It is a really interesting and well-phrased question, though...using the "Burning Times" idea as a personal metaphor is brilliant.

[Art]

Methinks you have accomplished quite a bit even if you do have quite a way to go. Much of contemporary western Paganism is shrouded in bovine excrement as is any other belief system touched by man. Separating the wheat from the chaff is not necessarily an easy task.
I don’t think I’d blend the Roman invasion of Anglesey with the witch hunts of medieval Europe. It’s clearly an apples and oranges comparison in that the motivations and objectives were entirely different. At the same time, any comparison between the witch hunt persecutions and any contemporary Pagan belief is a ditch that’s simply too hard to cross.
Most folks simply aren’t that terribly interested in what you believe, a few will be mildly curious, and an even smaller number will take some sort of negative stance. Chances are your parents will not toss you out on your ear nor will your neighbors show up with flaming faggots and pitchforks. As long as you are reasonably well informed, refrain from resorting to stereotypes, and don’t have an awen tattooed on your forehead, you shouldn’t have a serious problem. Now with that said, remember that if you choose to look like a nut, folks will dub you as nutty.
I’ve never been the least bit secretive about Druidry and it has never caused me one moments distress in the workplace, my family, or the greater community.
My advice would be:
Don’t believe anything until you’ve tried it on for fit and function. If it fits, then by all means live it.
Take delight in being wrong for the inception of a truth often rests in the realization of an error.
Don’t listen to any one person but rather pay attention to many and balance what you learn.
Be comfortable in anyone’s grove, circle,or pew. The source is the same even if the messengers are different.
If you can, join the Order. There's more bang for the buck in the course than most folks realize.

[Merlyn]

once awakend from delusion, and seeing the many kinds, and all the pain from them all, why would you go back? You woudn't.
Being excluded from delusion might be a bit of an adjustment. However, further on you will find yourself better off.

Others who see the light within you will not question it.

Merlyn

[DaRC]

Hmm a tricky question like the Droood himself I like the use of the "burning times" as a personal gnosis moment.

Normally I object to the "burning times" as it's just not historically accurate. The majority of people burnt, certainly in the UK, were not pagans or even witches but usually good Christians whose flavour of Christianity was viewed as heretical. Here in Sussex it was at Lewes that 17 faithful Protestants were burnt
http://www.bbc.co.uk/legacies/myths_leg ... ey_sussex/

Historically OBOD is a meso-Druidic philosophy / movement and whilst many nowadays are Pagan or non-Christian originally all members would have been Christian. I would suspect that this has only changed in the past 30 years or so. In this respect Christianity and Druidry have walked a fair distance together.

So perhaps you need to consider these questions:

1) What is my purpose in this?
2) Will this act cause more harm than good?
3) If I am going to follow this course of action, when should I do it?

For myself I have viewed these questions as my mother is a devoted Christian her commitment to the Church increases yearly since the passing of my father and with her own movement into old age .
1) There would be no point emphasising my pagan beliefs to my mother, the only purpose would be to wind her up. She knows I don't attend church and I joke that I'm a heathen.
2) It would cause her much worry, so more harm than good. She's not going to change, I'm not going to change so it would cause unnecessary conflict.
3) My grandfather was a Cornish Bard (another Meso Druidic movement) and so she brought me up with many Celtic Druidic ideas - an interest in folklore and the land, a strong concept that we are mere caretakers for the earth and a love of nature and the rhythms of the year. So when we meet I concentrate on our commonalities, we can find enough to argue about with politics and political correctness....

Within the strongly secular UK I have found it best just to walk the walk rather than talk the talk.

[DJ Droood]

Normally I object to the "burning times" as it's just not historically accurate. The majority of people burnt, certainly in the UK, were not pagans or even witches but usually good Christians whose flavour of Christianity was viewed as heretical. Here in Sussex it was at Lewes that 17 faithful Protestants were burnt
http://www.bbc.co.uk/legacies/myths_leg ... ey_sussex/

I admit I cringed a bit when I saw the subject header.....the whole "Burning Times" idea seems like revisionist history and sort of a lame attempt to identify with victim culture (I actually have a distant in-law that was cooked...Goody Bassett in Connecticut...I don't think she was a witch/pagan though..probably just lipped-off at the wrong Church leader....and I try not to take it personally)....but I like the idea of each of us having a moment when we have to "face the flames"....that is about empowerment. (That said, I have absolutely no advice about telling your mum...good luck!)

[Myrde]

Well, that's how I have always viewed the Burning Times, as a metaphorical sense. I, personally, have never used viewed it as that "victimist movement" like others my age...

Hehe, again, I'm fighting against the stereotype that gets applied to the youth who "dabble" in such things.

Moreso... I fully understand that the battle at Ynys Mons was more militaristically strategic than anything else for the Romans, yet it essentially resulted in the eradication of the Druids. And, while it is true that many of the people the Inquisistion (shoulda expected them) executed was for political or fear based reasoning, there were still a fair number of practicioners of the Old Ways.

I don't agree with people's standard view of the Burning Times. For me... the Burning Times were moreso... I guess you can say the periods of time Christianity took to the sword and the flame to enforce their will. Which, in all honesty, ISN'T fair to say about Christianity as a whole. Especially since I was raised Catholic. But historically, can it be argued?

Believe me! Not here to debate or question the authenticity of the Burning Times, or how their used! This is not my objective! For me, the phrase is purely metaphorical... because in a sense, that's kinda what I fear. Having my life and home burned away.

But (please ignore everything above that) thank-you all so much for your advice and for your stories. It's kinda nice to get so many different views and from all sorts of walks of life. I'm really grateful for your help.

Thank-you!

....btw, am I the youngest person here?

[wyeuro]

can i just add a couple of things? oh what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive 'the truth will set you free'. some truths are shocking to some people at some times but leaving a person in a state of delusion is not ethical, and unethical treatment of people is ultimately worse than shocking them into knowing the truth. truly pious people are not feeble-minded or weak, fragile or frail-spirited - it takes courage and determination to stay pious in a world that wants to tear you down if it can. their pantheon of angels and saints will give them the same support and comfort they've always given.

there's no need to slam it into them, but if you announce to your parents that you have something to reveal that might shock them, and then in a prayerful, reverent, loving family atmosphere, gently introduce them to the ideas, explaining that paganism is not devil worship but a love of our planet as a living being, of the fairies and nature spirits as well as the saints and angels, and of the ancestral spirits, (or whatever - everyone crafts their own path) and does not close your mind to loving god or jesus, with the help of their priest they would surely survive the shock. if they truly can't handle it, and turn you out, surely it would be better for you to leave them. the lie between you would surely do more spiritual harm than not shocking them would do good. if they deplore pagans, and you're lying to them by pretending not to be one, should you be eating at their table? and how could your growing pagan awareness flourish in such a mental aura? so if you know that that simply couldn't tolerate being told, then the obvious compromise is to move out.

i agree about the value of focusing on a druid equivalent of burning times, and can't help noticing how that process you describe is just like a burning:

Like everything, at last I decided my own information was insufficient, and to form my own opinions. I tackled every religious book I could find. And when I mean every, I meant everything. East, West, old, new. It didn't matter. I read unorthodox pieces, and as many things about my faith and others that I could. I also dwelt upon the history of each religion, and its actions. I also focused on Philosophy. Nothing was spared in my search, and I read as many things as I could get my hands on. By the end of it, I was an emotional and mental wreck. So many beliefs, concepts, theories, and ideas were running around in my head. I was doing what no man should ever do. I was looking for the Truth of the world and how it worked. And I had millennia of human mistakes and alteration working against me. Some nights I spent weeping, others my body burned with rage.

you burned with rage. that's a baptism of fire if ever there was one, so gaia will know you won't be needing another and if that's anything to go by, i suspect breaking it to your parents won't be quite so incendiary. in bardry there are four 'baptisms', one at each arm of the cross within the circle. you've had water and fire and you'd be facing earth and air 'baptisms' now if you took it up.

blessings and the beauty of the magic of the world be with you
wyverne