I've asked this question on a lot of messageboards, but usually in the wrong ways. People get defensive. I'm insatiably curious about pagan religions. I am uncertain how I feel about deities, and although I sense a higher power I am also very skeptical, and highly critical and self-doubting. There is something about certain pagan ideologies that overrides my skepticism and sort of 'touches' something in me (at the risk of sounding cheesy). A lot of people answer the question with things like this: "They believe in me!" or "They found me!" Or, they appeal to their ancestry and follow a religion such as Asatru. Now, I am not saying these are invalid reasons. They just confuse me. Do you use logic and reason in your approach to your religion? If so, what train of thought led you to believe in these gods? If your religion is motivated more by emotions, heritage, or curiosity, does logic ever get in the way? I guess these questions could apply to any religion. It's just that Christians tend to be really dogmatic in their approach to 'truth' and just seem to believe it without a doubt. It's like gravity to them. Pagans seem to be more vague and naturalistic in their spirituality, as if they're entertaining ideas rather than facts. Not that I actually know anything that I'm talking about, of course.
i came to paganism because i wanted a belief system that suited me. and it really does, it fits so well. i "developed" my beliefs with paganism, i always believed in mother earth, but then i found there are many more gods, and they bring comfort to me. i am influenced by my heritage aswell. but also i "choose" my gods based on the ones that appeal to me in some way. thank you for putting your question forward in a peaceful way. i hope this helps. blessings xxx xx x
