The February meet-up is tomorrow. The topic will start off with Spring Myths, and will likely move on as things tend to do. As events such as this approach, I am reminded of why these things are important in one’s spiritual life.

Neopaganism is in turns a very personal and a very social form of religion. In the personal arena, there is a lot less guidance and (dare I say) dogma to usher those new to the religion in a spiritually profitable direction. There are few elders in the religion compared to others, which gives rise to a lot of self-initiation, self-dedication, and even self-declaration. In such an environment, we become free to make our own choices and do our own research on how to believe and proceed with that belief. Individuality is cherished rather than alienated; self-reflection and meditation are encouraged as paths to growth. Of course, the downside is, we have our share of “gurus” and “masters” of the art that do more harm than good to this set of religions.

On the social side of things, in the days when the religions we currently emulate and draw inspiration from were practiced, religion was a matter for the tribe and for the nation. People came together at regular intervals to mark the passing of the seasons, give offerings, and ask for boons of the Gods. In many ways, this need for interaction with others who believe similarly to ourselves has not diminished. Some Wiccan covens try to collect in groups of 9-13 members. Neopagans of many types and stripes attend Pagan Pride Day, local events, even conventions half a world away. Many pagans learn that there is a viable path other than a Judeo/Christian/Muslim one by talking with other pagans. Some only realize that the religion is right for them after attending and experiencing Neopagan ritual (a few close friends of mine admit to this).

One’s world-view and belief system is something that can tie us together in a way few other social gatherings can, whether that gathering be a full ritual or a simple meeting over coffee and biscuits. Sometimes, one can feel closer to the others that are in a group due to like-mindedness, or even – as Neopaganism has shown – just open-mindedness to others’ beliefs. Sometimes, we learn something new that jives with how we believe, something we then incorporate into our own system. Sometimes, we just enjoy being together as a community.