“I Don’t Get It.”
“I don’t get it.” A comment I’ve seen and heard several times in relation to Atheopaganism: “I just don’t get what you’re doing, or why you’re doing it. Why would you do rituals if there is no magic and there are no gods?” (or, “what’s up with these rituals and holidays? Why do you do that?”)
Well, let me explain…
For joy. For wonder. For wisdom. For depth. For laughter. For self-discovery. For connection. For friendship. For solace. For clarity.
For calm. For delight.
For forbearance. For kindness. For fun. For sharing. For passion. For flight. For belonging. For discovery. For pleasure. For creativity. For curiosity. For community.
For surprise. For remembrance.
For, frankly, pretty much all the reasons that people follow any religious path (save promises of an afterlife or magical powers).
That’s why.
All the above are deeply human motivations. We all have them, whether or not we believe in gods.
We are Atheopagans because it adds depth and meaning to our lives.
It feels good. It feels right.
That’s why.
Mark Green
Author of ATHEOPAGANISM: An Earth-Honoring Path Rooted in Science, Mark Green is the initiator of the Atheopagan path and editor at the Atheopaganism blog. With co-host Yucca, he records the weekly podcast The Wonder: Science-Based Paganism, makes YouTube videos, and creates materials and resources for practicing Atheopagans. He volunteers as a staffer to the Atheopagan Council to support the growth of Atheopaganism throughout the world. In his home of Sonoma County, California, in the occupied ancestral lands of the Southern Pomo and Coast Miwok peoples, he is best known as an activist and founder of Sonoma County Conservation Action, the largest environmental activism group by membership on the North Coast of California.
5 Comments
Gerald Young
It was interesting to read your comments concerning Atheopaganism and while I may agree with most of what you are saying. I disagree as far as the existence of Gods and Goddesses; yes each and every person may choose to believe as to what gives them peace of mind. If it had not been for the experience of hearing the call from the God and also the Goddess years ago. I would not be where I am today both emotionally, mentally and physically. At age 72 soon to be 73 I no longer doubt their existence.
Mark Green
Well, that’s fine for you. I, similarly, have little doubt that they exist only in your mind–which is fine, that’s where they can benefit you. Good thing the Pagan community is a big tent and offers a place for both of us.
LadyColubrid
Thank you for being able to create a list of words where I struggle to put words for myself.
Mark Green
You’re very welcome!
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