The Wheel of the Year keeps turning. We blasted past Yule and are coming up on Imbolc. As a crone, it seems to turn even faster. Since it is a new year, I thought I would compile some thoughts for your amusement and enlightenment.
What first comes to mind is the the #1 quote for 2010 was “I am not a witch” by Christine O'Donnell. It seems she “dabbled” in witchcraft years ago. At first glance that is a pretty funny quote. But when you think about it further, what other religion would you say you “dabbled” in? I can say I “dabbled” in Christianity years ago, or “dabbled” in Eastern religions ever more years ago.
The definition of dabbling is “To undertake something superficially or without serious intent.” Lots of people, including teens, express an interest in witchcraft or say they are witches. Often it is to shock one's family or friends, or to be seen as “cool.” Some people just want to belong to a group, as pagans are very accepting of different lifestyles such as homosexuality.
Some seriously want to learn more, but decide the path is not for them. Others go on to make a commitment to continue learning about this religion called Wicca. It is a lifelong course that becomes part of one's life. Wicca has been recognized by the U.S military and U.S courts as a valid religion (see Dettmer v. Landon)
My concern here is not about the quote itself, although I find it hilariously funny.The deeper concern is the fact that being a witch is treated more as a joke than as a serious belief system. Pagan author Starhawk wrote about this issue in the faith column for the Washington Post.
“Witchcraft deserves the same respect accorded to any other spiritual tradition. And O'Donnell deserves the same respect as any other politician: that we judge them by their record, their abilities and their policies, not by stupid, offhand remarks they made decades ago.”
I agree. After watching more of her appearances on TV, I've decided I would never want her in office. She is a black and white thinker, and freedom of religion is certainly not on her agenda.
But just for fun, watch this parody of O'Donnell's campaign ad.
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