When it comes to learning about different paths and expanding upon the knowledge we obtain that is not only defined within a text or mythos but personal experience. This year's guide to the gods had many twists and turns from the conception to the point of the event itself. As we started the journey of gathering others within the community a few souls decided to share their path. As many know it can be a very vulnerable position to be so open and candid about one's path and personalized experiences. Even for myself, the process of getting ready is almost a point of questioning everything you know. Because in these moments you are not just a representation of yourself but of the gods you honor. Which doesn't seem like a lot of pressure am I right, lol.
As the day approached the gods had other plans in mind. Guiding the hearts and minds of those within the event and patrons in attendance. Normally we like to display a variety as we had planned. As our group focuses on the representation of all paths, not just one defined path. But sometimes the gods have other plans in mind. Today was one of those days on which the Greek gods claimed the day. As our other presenters of different paths got plagued by work or health issues. Which we all know happens in life from time to time and yet it seemed so funny to me at the same time. Due to the nature of the greek gods so prominent in my life and the need to represent them within our community. It was kinda fitting how it all came to be and here is why I say this. As I said the need to be open and not second guess one's path or ability to share that path is frightening. Today though a goddess pushed her devotee to honor her during this event that was not intended. Which of course that goddess was Athena, who is a wisdom seeker and giver as one of her many sides. As we were all getting ready to set up and display our findings Lauranne the owner of Roos Realm realized google had not updated her shop's information. So now as we set and ponder did people look at the event and location in it or just search Roos Realm. It was at this point my husband was chosen to go forth and make sure that all was be directed to the right location. Before he left I mentioned to him" you know you said you felt like you should represent". To which he replied to me "well yeah, but what are you getting at?''
This led to me explaining how he would have to pass our house to get to the old shop and back to the new shop. To me, this is a clear indication that you are being called to represent. That's when the moment dawned upon his face and off he went. Once he came back no one had been present to our knowledge at the old shop location. So for me, this was a sign of a call to devotion and breaking one's own comfort. Which if you worked with any god or force of such power. We have all had those moments where we faced challenges presented to us that push our comfortable boundaries.
As the event carried on those in attendance shared about themselves and the paths they walk into this moment. Each of us shares concerns about the world around us and how as a pagan community finding ways to push past the divide and bring together a united front. The conversation for pagan spaces and the need that our communities are lacking in safe places of worship. To ideas that would breathe new life into the shop and bring together not only items made by hands in the community. But to offer the ability to be more present and hands-on within our shops. I listened to the stories of challenges we all have faced and the value that not only pagan spaces provide. But the people we are blessed to meet within those spaces makes them extended family to us. How we have all found ourselves and the value of our place thru the spiritual path. Leading us to like-minded individuals and the appreciation of our strengths and our weaknesses that as separate we find grounded. But when in a community setting how energies can complement where others lack in comparison.
For me the energies I interacted with opened my eyes to perception is ever-changing and even within ourselves. Sometimes the things we think we have overcome are still not fully healed and yet can bring a connection to similarities among us. As someone who has to face challenges brought on by me being ADHD, it's hard sometimes. When we bring in how one is raised on what fuels us vs our own limitations. It can be an experience in itself that sometimes you need to hear from others who face similar situations. At guide to the gods I came with the intent to guide others and to my surprise, I got guided by those around me. Thank you once again to Roo's Realm and to those who showed up in attendance. As today was needed more than I knew and can't wait till next years Guide To The Gods.
The Devine Witch
Debbie Lewis
Photo of Branden Hudson
Comments