Pagans and Witches have had their heritage stolen
Recently, I was made aware of your editorial/article regarding Wal-Mart carrying Wiccan literature. I was, however, shocked and saddened by the cynical jibe at the end of the article.
Pagans and Witches have had their heritage stolen from them by the Christian culture, just as the aboriginal peoples of the Americas have. This has been done by stealth, threats, book burnings, and outright murder, over the course of two millenia. These people are the people one sees every day; your nice neighbor, your funny co-worker, the young man who opens the door for you every morning…they are not evil demon-calling Devil worshippers. Some of them choose to dress outside the norm, to make a statement, but most of them do not. You would not know one if you passed them on the street…and I guarantee that you do, on a daily basis.
I have never been proselytized by a Pagan or Witch. I have never had a book thrust into my face with scripture threatenting me with punishments if I do not believe the way they do. In the course of my life, I have met many Pagans and Witches, and have found them to be intelligent, thoughtful, well-rounded people who deserve the respect due any human being.
Religion is a deeply personal discipline. Even 100 Christians gathered together will not walk away from a sermon with exactly the same impressions and perceptions. If these people choose to call upon Old Deities who have been relegated to “demons” by another faith, it is not for us to judge. Christianity is not the only faith present in the world, Ms. McCleod. In fact, I believe your ancestors were not Christian…they were some of the most faithful and hard-fighting Pagans in the world. I know, because my own heritage is the same…I am of Scots lineage. Rome was terrified of them.
Please do not make assumptions, Ms. McCleod. It is far past time to begin to show these people the respect and tolerance that we show Buddhists, and Hindus, and other religions. They deserve to worship the way they like in peace, without insult.
Sincerely,
Rev. Dr. Anita L. Wynn, PhD, DD
