#religious fluidity

[horostones-blog]

We are among the first peoples in human history who do not broadly inherit religious identity as a given, a matter of kin and tribe, like hair color and hometown. But the very fluidity of this—the possibility of choice that arises, the ability to craft and discern one’s own spiritual bearings—is not leading to the decline of spiritual life but its revival

Krista Tippet

[lifeisdivinity1]

What is Paganism: religious fluidity

Without breaking our brains and trying to exactly describe paganism or define religion in general, let's think about what paganism is for a moment.

Paganism is a religion that is centered on reverence for nature, although the interpretation of this varies. It incorporates some beliefs and practices inspired by ancient pagan/polytheistic/etc. traditions, though it came about in response to various aspects of the social climate and is not actually directly descended from those ancient traditions. However, this doesn't make it any less valid! Its validity also is not impaired by the extreme diversity under the pagan umbrella. If you disagree with me on this, hear me out.

See, I have a lot of thoughts. One of them is this: Religion should be fluid. Okay, what am I talking about?

Religion is personal. A person changes throughout his or her lifetime. Religion does, too. Maybe a lot, maybe a little. But it definitely changes. You might start out Catholic but later become Unitarian Universalist, perhaps later switch to Buddhist. Maybe you find that Catholicism has a base that's important to you, so you identify as Catholic but pull ideas and/or practices from Buddhism to enhance your spirituality. You ask new questions and seek new answers. You explore. You find what fits.

I personally value paganism's base. The natural world is important to me, as is the idea that everything is connected. I want to be closer to other people and everything else that surrounds me, and I see paganism as a way to help me do that. I'm also influenced by Catholicism because of my upbringing, whether I like it or not. I feel a connection to ancient Egypt, so I embrace Bastet. I'm sure I will be inspired by many other traditions as I continue on my journey, and I am open to developing an eclectic religious view.

Also, I think paganism is more open to religious fluidity and eclecticism. What do you think?