1. That there is in fact, an overall, all-encompassing force or energy responsible for all Creation and more. This has been called "God" in the English language -- indeed, the names of all the aspects of this overall Force are without limit.
   
   We prefer to call this godenergy the BALANCE and the GodForce, since these are more descriptive.
   
   
2. That this godenergy (or force) manifests in myriad and various ways or forms. This energyforce has created and is creating many universes (along with our own), and we inhabit but one of them.
   
   That each universe (including our own) is governed by a complimentary set of cosmic laws, which we know as the laws of nature, and universal law (such are the laws of gravity, entropy, action/reaction, et cetera).
   
   That these rules and laws operate independent of any being's understanding or even knowledge, regardless of belief or agreement.
   
   That anything and everything which abides by these laws can exist in this universe.
   That nothing which does not abide by these laws can.
   
   
3. THAT ALL THINGS AND ALL LAWS EXISTING IN ANY UNIVERSE ARE MERELY ASPECTS OR MANIFESTATIONS OF THIS OVERALL FORCE.
   
   That this overall force (or energy) has no smallest or largest part; it is totally all-pervasive. It is likewise that which is responsible for the phenomenon called "charm -- the binding of all molecules and atoms to one another -- as well as the form and shape of all universes, both in specific and in general.
   
   That the BALANCE is also responsible for the phenomenon called "luck" or "chance" --- the rules and laws governing this aspect of the GodForce merely not understood by humankind, yet.
   
   
4. That there are myriad planes of existence; any manifestation or aspect of the BALANCE may be active or inactive on any or all of said planes or levels.
   
   That what might be considered active or inactive on a level perceivable to humankind may not be so on (an)other plane(s) or level(s), and that what aspect is perceivable by humankind as being a certain way might not be so on (an)other level(s) or plane(s).
   
   
5. That there are intrinsic innate forces which pervade each and all physical form and shape, whether animate or inanimate: a pattern of energy or force (or spirit) which directs and influences these physical forms and shapes, although not always on a level or plane or fashion perceivable to humankind.
   
   As others have, we call this energyforce the soul, or (more appropriately) the spiritsoul. ALL FORMS AND SHAPES WHICH ARE PHYSICAL POSSESS THESE INNATE FORCES --- BUT EACH OF A DIFFERENT AND APPROPRIATE NATURE.
   
   That, while others teach that only those living creatures (life as defined within certain narrow definitions) with the ability to actively participate in their environment (and thus able to alter their environment on a plane or level perceivable to themselves as defined within their own definitions) have souls, we do not. We recognize that all things have a spiritsoul, whether sapient or bestial, or even whether living or nonliving as perceived by humankind.
   
   That the spiritsoul is not a function of the personality or intelligence --- but vice versa (or both). Active participation is all that makes a dog different from a rock (or a robot different from a person) --- for the one is better able to participate openly (or "actively") in their environment than the other. The degree of active participation increases according to the ability to conceive of doing so as well as the participation in itself.
   
   
6. That the spiritsoul is not mortal, in that it survives the death or discorporation of its most current physicality (or form).
   
   That the physical form, or shape, cannot exist or function at all without this intrinsic, innate force any longer than it would take the Force of Entropy to break it down (or "destroy" it), i.e., the cells of a living substance or thing would no longer repair or replicate themselves, and a rock (or any other inanimate substance or thing) would possess less cohesive or structural strength than the force of erosion working on it.
   
   That the spiritforce (of a form or shape or thing) cannot defy or override cosmic laws, as such are of a higher order of force than it is. As such, it cannot preserve the cohesion and atomic or molecular integrity of its current physicality if this becomes incompatible with said laws.
   
   That the physicality (or form) cannot survive at all without the integrative presence of the spiritsoul's force and energy.
   
   That -- when the spiritsoul voluntarily leaves the physicality without the physical form (or body) first becoming incompatible, this is called "willing oneself to death," for the will is, after all, simply a function of the spiritsoul.
   
   
7. That the spiritsoul can take on another physical form after discorporation (called reincarnation), but -inasmuch as the spiritsoul has certain intrinsic and innate qualities -- each is most likely to take a form which is similar in these qualities and similar in its active-participative capacity as its most previous form, and to evolve or devolve spiritually in a slow, gradual manner (or, in other words, to "move" up or down on the spiritual evolutionary ladder). Such upward or downward "movement" is in response to each spiritsoul's own inner qualities and their surroundings. As a rule, in accord with the BALANCE, this evolutionary "movement" will not be extreme. This means that -- although a human may not reincarnate as a human, this soul may reincarnate as a humanoid-type alien, or as a "higher" or "lower" species as its balance may require.
   
   
8. That reincarnation is governed, as are all things in this universe, by certain set laws. These laws determine in which way a spiritsoul will form (and reform), develop and manifest itself ---- as well as achieve and maintain harmony.
   
   That -- in this universe -- the Basic Law, guiding all other laws, is Balance. Balance is herein defined as the non-excessive reaction to environment and is considered to be the cause and effect of two manifestations of the overall GodForce: Chaos (Change) and Order (Pattern).
   
   The maintenance of Balance is never static; the very nature of Chaos/Order will preclude stagnation.
   
   That the spiritsoul strives to maintain Balance naturally, and where it overreacts or under-reacts to its environment, then the Law of Action/Reaction comes into play. In some human cultures, this is also called "Karma." We believe that "Karma" is neither "good" nor "evil;" it is instead either excessive or balanced.
   
   
9. That the function of the spiritsoul (in all things) is to achieve and maintain the Balance, within its environment and the Universe.
   
   That all things exist in accord with Chaos/Order (for the BALANCE is chaotic/lawful force), and it is the same with spiritsouls. They, as well as all other things (and spirits) are subject to change within certain set cosmic laws, and part of this "change" is also similar to what others call evolution (as with living things). This "evolution" is open-ended in the main, but it is likewise possible that any individual spiritsoul (as with any species) may come to a "dead end" in its cosmic evolution, and if this occurs, it will thereafter survive only so long as its environment continues to favor its continuance. In this case, being non-adaptable, it may only maintain BALANCE within a certain set of circumstances. If or when these change, it must either change or retreat. If it can do neither, it is changed.
   
   
10. That spiritsouls are themselves neither created nor destroyed, for these are (an) innate force(s), but can be changed.
    
    That, as in the case of the non-adaptable spiritsoul (unable to maintain Balance), this change may come in the form of "binding separation," in which the spiritsoul -- as an integral unit -- discorporates completely and its component "parts" are sent back (to the "end of the line," as it were) to rebegin and reattempt its cosmic evolution.
    
    
11. That -- as an individual plant or animal, etcetera, is part of a genus, which is part of a species, which is part of a family (which is part of a kingdom, also belonging to a planet's ecosystem, as well as the ecology of a solar system, etc.) -- so are spiritsouls parts of ever-larger and more encompassing wholes.
    
    That these "wholes" may be harnessed (even as the wind and water may be), and focused (or "channeled") by individual spiritsouls (as forces or patterns of energy), in much the same way as the group (herd or pack) may be "called on" and thus directed by the individual (animal) for the benefit and protection of the group. As others have, we call these "wholes" overminds, and the Overmind of Planet Earth is -- by most people -- regarded as "GOD" and its manifested parts fragmented into the various forms as conceived of and perceived by (our) different cultures.
    
    And thus: THE CHRISTIAN "GOD" IS A FORCE WHICH DOES EXIST, AS IS THE ISLAMIC "GOD" ALLAH, THE EGYPTIAN "GOD" OSIRIS, AND OTHER ASPECTS OR MANIFESTATIONS OF THE GODFORCE AS PERCEIVED AND REFLECTED BY ALL HUMANKIND.
    
    That -- no matter their form, their "behavior," their needs & demands, their power or their will or whim -- all such (and more besides) are naught but manifested aspects of the greater Force of the Earth's Overmind --- "created" by all that exists on the Earth (whether living or nonliving, corporeal or incorporeal, animate or inanimate, matter or energy, form or spirit, etc.) --- which is, in turn, part of the Overmind of the solar system, etc. None of these manifestations (no matter the belief or devotion of its "worshipper") is "the one true god," although any of these can, has and will respond with great power and effect. This is only because any overmind is formed by the aggregation (and belief) of its members (or parts) --- and belief is nothing if not focused, concentrated and channeled willpower. Thus: it may, of course, be directed by its individual member(s) or its group(s). BUT: it may also be thwarted or even redirected by others who either control (an)other force(s), or who control (in part) the same Force (and wish to use it for another purpose).
    
    
12. That all Overminds can and do have a direct effect on the areas with which they are affiliated; on Earth, such happenings are called "miracles," especially when they seem inexplicable. In actuality, what appears to be a contradiction of natural laws takes the form of creating an environmental situation in which the laws of the universe will operate in a way that is beneficial for a group's members (beneficial as defined by the members).
    
    That -- as such energies (belief) are composed of chaotic (changing) particles rather than patterned form (fixed matter) --- such beneficial action ("miracles") may be somewhat limited on those physical planes or levels perceived by humankind (and may be more effectively perceived on other planes or levels), and in truth, its limits are dictated (as are all things) by the cosmic laws of our universe, and the intrinsic qualities and characteristics of the level(s) or plane(s) being affected. EVEN SO: THIS DOES NOT MEAN THAT ITS POWER IS ANY LESS, OR THAT THE RESULTS OF ITS OR THEIR POWER ARE NOT PERCEIVABLE OR TANGIBLE, MERELY THAT (LIKE ALL THINGS) THE TERRAN OVERMIND -- "GOD" -- MUST CONFORM TO THE LAWS OF THE UNIVERSE.
    
    That wood-sprites, daemons, elementals, and other such spirits and forces recognized (and worshipped) by mainstream pagans also have power and effect, but only that which conforms to cosmic law, and only that which is derived from the force of the aggregate of their component parts (or members or "Overminds").
    

• (a) natural cosmic law;
  
  
• (b) our environment, and:
  
  
  
• (c) our own biological nature and needs --- to aid us in establishing a code that provides as much as is possible for the benefit of the group (and individual, for this is the Law that governs survival).
  
  

And what is meant by Order? That which stays the same, inertial, patterned and still, that which resists change, absorbing movement, energy and life ... form, sterility, Laws rigid and structured, a void but a cataloging of All.

BALANCE is the mean between these two, but is neither entropy, stagnation or stasis, for once BALANCE is achieved, some outside force or energy acts (or does not act) to set the Cosmic Scales awry. Such is the eternal Dance of this Universe.

Likewise, we believe that the BALANCE is neither sexless nor gendered (like mainstream religions tend to). For although gender partakes of both Chaos and Order, neither male nor female gender determines the life of a virus (which is both) nor of stone (which is neither). Even the planets and the stars (the first many-gendered, the other not gendered at all) are not "sexed" nor "sexless," yet do they grow, change and move from "birth" or "death" in their own way. It follows, therefore, that any so-called "supreme" all-powerful, all-encompassing "deity" must be beyond any limitations set on it by humankind --- certainly gender limitations at any rate.

WHAT IS YOUR CONCEPT OF GOOD VS. EVIL? WHERE DO YOU STAND?

This is a non-sequitur --- all aspects of the GodForce are equally multi-faceted ... the same spiritforce can either help or hinder the seeker, even as water can quench a thirst or drown you. And if water is neither good nor evil, so are spiritforces (one man's god(s) is another man's demon(s)).

Yet, most other religions believe that "Good" and "Evil" not only exist, but "naturally" oppose one another. We are told that (the) God(s) "care" about us (whether "good" or "evil") and "care" about what we do. We are told to serve them (if "good") or to deny them (if "evil"), so that we may be rewarded (or not-punished, as the case may be).

We are likewise led to believe that "Love" is "Good," and so this appears to be the case (at its best). Yet even so, "Love" can blind the love-lorn to the truth or cause rash and foolish words and deeds. "Be fruitful and multiply" is the hue and cry of one religion. Yet what happens when so many are born that others must die for it? Where is the "good" in having "dominion over the Earth" when the Living Earth cries out over Her beauty and bounty having been savaged and stolen? Understand that "Good" and "Evil" are value judgements, applicable only when used in relation to something else, not as absolutes. That which is considered "evil" by some might be beneficial to someone else. All is relative, and what makes something "good" or "evil" is how it relates to another thing or one or situation. THE SAME ACT, THE SAME EMOTION, THE SAME SPIRITFORCE CAN BE EITHER HELPFUL OR HARMFUL, ACCORDING TO CIRCUMSTANCE, AND ACCORDING TO THE ENVIRONMENT OF THE UNIVERSE.

True, there is Creation and Destruction, but Creation can be harmful, and Destruction can be beneficial, depending on circumstances and the environment. While spiritforces are chaotic/ordered/balanced, and as such, do have an effect on their "worshippers," this is not due to any benevolent or malevolent intent at all. They are, after all, only behaving according to their nature, in response to their surroundings.

HOW DO YOU RELATE TO THE POWER OF THIS 'GODFORCE?'

Both inertial and living energyforces (spirits) combine in ever-increasing, more powerful forms as mutual direction is gained: as in --- one wolf, the wolf pack, all wolves (including those not of the home Pack), all canines, all predators/hunters, all carnivorous mammals, all placental mammals, etc. All things possess a spirit within which is part of the greater Whole (who is all and yet each).

So if rock possesses a "something" --- an innate force which makes all rock different from all other things (and, consequently, unique unto itself), then this is the aspect of "rock," which partakes of the spirit of each rock and infuses into each rock its spirit (or energyforce). This also equally applies to trees, birds, animals, people, and more. Each is part of the Whole which yet becomes part of another Whole, even as the "strength of the individual is the group and the strength of the group is the individual." Kipling spoke truer than he knew --- each is connected to everything else, yet remains itself an individual. You see, a tree has an innate force (and characteristics) -- a unique "treeness" -- which is recognized as singularly individual, yet it is also "connected" at the same time to all of a similar bent. Like you, it is a "child" of the Living Earth, and shares with Her other "children" certain qualities and affinities ... and as such, their energies share these qualities, too, and are thus intertwined. Interconnected and interwoven, everything and one is connected to all others, yet remains an individual while partaking of a possibly infinite number of groups --- according to its affinities and its nature.

Take "John Doe," for example.

True, he is "John Doe" (the individual). And yet --- he is also: a living thing, a back-boned mammalian, a Homosapiens, a man of English descent, a Caucasian, an American, a Californian, a denizen of Burbank, a member of the "Doe" family (and clan), a parent of "John Doe, Jr." and his siblings, as well as being "Jane Doe's" spouse. The number of members in each of these groups can be large or small; it doesn't matter. He can "tap" into all their gifts and strengths, if he knows how.

"John Doe" is also part of the following groups: He is an Earthman, a citizen of the Sol planetary system, the Milky Way galaxy, and the known universe (known both to him and to us). And so, ipso facto, he is "related" to the tree on Earth, and to a Martian in various and innumerable ways, different and yet similar. So is the Martian connected to the tree on Sol III and to life on Alpha Centauri. Each group may have many members or only a few --- but the combined power (or energyforce) is at least equal to the sum-total of its members (or parts).

As each individual animal belongs to an order, a species, etc., so does each individual living and non-living thing (corporeal and incorporeal) connect to great groups (or "wellsprings") of massive power and function (quantitatively, the related "members" in the "groups" can add up to an unimaginable number --- as witness the example of "John Doe"). Each connection (like a plug inserted into an electrical socket) draws power and gives power --- opening and closing connection (in much the same way as a switch), while interphasing with these "wellspring" repositories, which we call "overminds" (for lack of a better word. Others have used this word as well). Take note: because of our natural connection with these overminds, one may address their individual or collective power for the purpose of mystic celebration and to channel patterns of focused energy (ordered-chaos) on the goal or problem.

As this might imply, other religions have perceived these overminds, but as "gods" and worship them, calling them by a variety of names. And although it is with these overminds that religious ritual and ceremony is concerned, still one must keep in mind that these are no more the "rulers" of humankind than the sun is the center of the universe (both concepts based on outmoded trains of thoughts). The names that people call these are without limit, but totally unimportant; remember that they are the same --- just different interpretations of the same Force. It is only the way that people perceive these powers which causes them to appear to differ.

HOW DO YOU WORSHIP? WHAT ABOUT YOUR RITUALS?

To compare: traditional pagans use ritual magic to summon or invoke these "gods" in order to bring about benefit and to banish harm from their lives. These rituals "require" the use of certain specific "ancient" words, movements (or "dance") herbs, oils and other "special" tools to accomplish their purpose.

The simple truth is: yes, words, props and rituals will work, but only because of the way that such affects all the energies involved --- like the way that catalysts affect changes in chemical phenomena without being changed themselves. So we hold that ritual(s) symbolically help [the] Seeker(s) “do the deed,” but (again) not because the force(s) are “personally” concerned with (these selfsame) seeker(s).

Sometimes, this “assistance” is no more tangible (noticeable) than believing that turning your hat helps winning a card game; it really doesn’t matter whether it [the hat]but assists is magickal; belief (in this case) causes powerful energies to create change This is a very important distinction --- one which many people miss…

an aware, skilled adept can use the ritual (and all its component parts) to focus the mind and will (and the appropriate "Overmind") on the desired goal. Each component of a ceremony or ritual helps the Seeker to fully concentrate energy to be catapulted directly on the problem.

When we "invoke," for example, the Spirit ("God/dess") of Life, Pagan Deists understand that we actually summon that aspect of the GodForce behind and within Life -- both within ourselves and within all other things which live. We do not believe, as some might, that we may bend nature to our will; we possess little arrogance in this regard, and prefer to behave as water does, which flows around its obstacles and yet is powerful in its own way (or even as an Aikido Master, who uses his opponent’s own brute force to overcome him).

This is not worship, prayer, sacrifice, nor any of the other forms of devotion as used by other more conventional faiths. We worship no God or Force at all --- for the BALANCE is not served by that; it is only the worshippers who are so served.

We instead believe in ritual ceremonial celebration --wherein we attune our minds and souls to the seasons. This is an act which hallows the inherent meaning of the seasonal "checkpoints" of the year --- as well as those personal milestones in any person's life. Since all people are grounded in the physical world (we live in it, you know), so are we reminded of this truth, by celebrating its arrival and passing. It may seem to some others that we are performing this act for the same reasons as mainstream pagans, or even staunch Judeo-Christians (who have their own, equally seasonal, holydays to attend), but our motivations differ. In celebrating the passage of Time, we remember our connection to the Living Earth, even though we might live in an asphalt-covered, pollution-choked, steel, concrete and plastic wilderness. We respect the power of the Living Earth --- and are compensated handsomely for our investment, in accordance with the laws of this Universe.

A SUMMARY

All religions are founded on presumed ideas (faith). There is nothing wrong with this; however, one must understand that, in matters of faith, ie: a belief without indisputable proof, one idea is equally as valid as any other. Given this, the following also applies:

• Regarding the above about belief:
  
  A system (of belief or faith) becomes invalid when it denies demonstrable fact(s), and/or presumes contradictions to be fact.
  

1. There is no personal omnipotent god, but there is or are:
   >
2. a Force behind and within all things (corporeal and incorporeal).
   
   
3. powers above H. sapiens and others which may not have form or shape as humankind perceives it and which might, by their very nature, influence human life and happenstance, but with no more personal involvement than the wolfpack's involvement in the affairs and life of a deer herd (The wolfpack couldn't care less, unless or until they come face-to-face with the herd --- and then, only so long as it takes to bring one down for food). Such forces include: tree-sprites, elementals, daemons, etc.
   
   
4. for each thing, a unit electrical field which can be combined with others in direct proportion to its similarity and compatibility. The greater the numbers in combinations, the more remote the field is in personal matters. Taken to the maximum limit, this "equals" the Force described in Postulate "1" (see above).
   
   
5. That the cause of all things is an active Force caused by chaos in dynamic balance with order (stasis vs. movement).
   
   
6. That, as such, readily accessible evidence strongly indicates that these following manifestations are more probable than the contrary:
   
   
   • Physics and "charm," etc.
     
     
   • Kirlian photography and phenomena
     
     
   • Direct recorded experience with "Overminds" (miracles, etc.)
     
     
   • the direct use of the "Force"
     
     
7. That all universal laws are a direct result of this "balance", without which the universe would cease to exist.
   
   
8. That evolution is a form of ordered-chaos (change with a pattern of progression).
   
   
9. That the soul is electrical energy and is independent of form or substance.
   
   
10. That the soul evolves in a similar pattern to physical evolution (see #5 above).
    
    
11. That aggregations or composites of force may be caused by the union of electrical fields of separate entities and that such unions are easier in direct proportion to their similar compatibility. Hence, there is a force-aggregate corresponding to (for example) one wolfpack (formed by the union of separate wolf-souls in the grouping), all wolves, all canids, all carnivorous mammals, all placental mammals, etc. As the combinations grow in quantity, the aggregate (or "Overmind") grows in power, but so also does it grow less personal and more remote --- in direct proportion to its growth.
    
    
12. That -- given all the above postulates -- reincarnation is probable and that it probably operates in the same fashion as does physical evolution (see #7 above).
    
    
13. That -- given the above postulate -- reincarnation exists as the vehicle for the soul to progress.
    
    
14. That an individual's purpose is for the species' benefit in general (this is a natural law, and directly provable by accessible evidence).
    
    
15. That nature is wasteful in this regard, which allows for a large margin for error (which, in turn, allows any one individual to "fail" -- or to make mistakes -- in the process of purpose-fulfillment). In other words, Nature (or natural law) allows for a high percentage for failure.
    
    
16. However, only contributing individuals are perpetuated (it is not true that all who contribute are perpetuated, but all who are perpetuated have contributed).
    
    
17. When the "wrong" things are perpetuated (nature's margin for error, remember?), the species itself may become imbalanced, and could become extinct through overadaption, or the inability to adapt, etc.
    
    
18. That, the greater the sapience and environmental participation, the greater one's responsibility for one's actions, and the greater number of choices of actions to take.
    
    
19. That no one (and no thing) is more powerful than natural laws (created by order interacting with chaos). However, within these laws, there is usually a way to achieve any given goal, given an infinite amount of energy to expend in achieving same.
    
    
20. That action causes equal and opposite reaction (and Nature "hates" a vacuum). Therefore, if an individual "takes" from this Force or uses power to achieve their goal(s), then this power "must" be replaced. This is how some "miracles" are wrought.
    
    *** *** ***
    
    ON BALANCE
    
    (A more definitive, less mystical, statement)
    
    BALANCE exists as a force of pervading principle which controls the actions of all other forces. The force BALANCE does not equal entropy, stagnation or nil; it holds sway over all things --- comprising many universes, including ones alternate to our own.
    
    A universe is created by energy, a function of Chaos, and is controlled by cosmic Laws, a function of Order --which results in patterns of energy (the composition of the entire universe's substance). Any one universe obeys a set of complementary Laws, constantly and consistently, and nothing which disobeys these Laws can exist within that universe. In certain universes, this patterned change takes the manifestation of evolving substance. In such universes, change continues along a path (or paths) as dictated by the Laws that govern that universe.
    
    Within evolving substance, Life is possible. Such life as known inherits both the energy (Chaos) and the form (Order), but may or might inherit each of them in varying degrees, both quantitatively and qualitatively. BALANCE exists as a whole within the universe, but also manifests itself as a series of off-sets --- therefore, in all universes, for every action, there will indeed be an equal and opposite reaction.
    
    Within these limits, either Chaos or Order may dominate in any specific or given manifestation, but any entity or thing, of necessity, must obey the Laws of the universe in which it exists (Order) and must contain some type of energy (Chaos) in order to exist at all. In a universe comprised of evolving substance, part of the evolution will always be a constant, continual effort -using mixtures of energy and form -- to achieve BALANCE in the environment. This leads to stability (but not stagnation, for that is a function of the force Order alone). Outside influences require continual, constant adjustment to maintain BALANCE and this further affects the universal environment. The methods of environmental evolution may be cyclic (as in galaxies), it may be open-ended (as in plants and animals, etc.), or a combination of the two.
    
    Note that as people partake equally of both Order and Chaos, then they also evolve upwards, in response to the ordered-chaos-balanced influences of their environment. Being creatures of energy and fixed form, we are spirits living in bodies. And people mix Chaos and Order quite naturally, so their actions remain mixed. One may choose between degrees of Chaos, Order, or may strive to achieve BALANCE (Complete BALANCE has no degrees, but in the striving, there are degrees of achievement).
    
    However: in any one given situation, one or the other may dominate.
    
    OBSERVE:
    
    A person with destructive tendencies may be so due to reasons which are Chaotic or Ordered. An executioner, for example, "destroys" (or kills) according to the laws of the land, and in orderly, set patterns. An insane murderer, however, does so on mere whim. A warrior may fight according to the laws of his/her land or according to desire (the one having authority which is recognized by all, the other having no authority at all). And yet: even a lawful fighter (a warrior who is recognized as such by his land's laws) may either exceed or even defy the limits of the authority given, the authority itself may conflict with the natural laws which govern the universe in which the warrior lives, and the violent act of killing -- in itself -- remains chaotic.
    
    Yet, on the other hand, those people (or situations) with creative or constructive tendencies may "create" due to reasons which are either Ordered or Chaotic. Witness the "creation" of cancer cells (chaos made manifest) or the construction of granite from humus (living matter), left by those living from before (the order of crystalline patterns). Death -- after the (usually) chaotic violence of its making -- is Order at its most profound.
    But even life -- which is, by its very nature, "chaotic" -- follows certain set (and orderly) patterns. WHAT APPLIES TO A "DESTRUCTIVE" PERSON ALSO EQUALLY APPLIES TO A "CONSTRUCTIVE" PERSON --- AND TO EVERY OTHER FORM OF BEHAVIOR.
    
    The concepts of "Good" and "Evil" are, in themselves, neither Chaos-oriented nor Order-oriented. They are, however, often equated with such: Order with "Good" and Chaos with "Evil." This is simply due to a human being's preference for predictability --- one of the many manifestations of the cosmic force known to us as Order.
    
    In most mainstream religions, "Good" and "Evil" are concepts that (because of belief) have become powers which are often perceived as "gods" --- given names, personalities and feelings for humankind and the world on which they live.
    
    Chaos and Order, of themselves, have no personal concern for or against any one individual or any group of individuals, but any conventional religious group will still define "Order" as "Good" (and as a force which benefits or helps it and its members), and defines "Chaos" as "Evil" (and a force which hinders or hurts it and its members). And thus it may be seen that the same occurrence may actually be interpreted as "evil" by one group and as "good" by another.
    
    If these powers must have any definite form at all, then "Good" might be defined as that which tends towards BALANCE, and "Evil" as that which tends away from BALANCE. But, even here, this changes concepts that are supposedly so basic to most human religion. Two so-called "evils" may balance the other out and become a "good." Indeed: "evil" opposes "evil" as often as it opposes "good," since imbalance is simply the absence of balance (and nothing more) and might be either chaotic or ordered. Actually, nothing should be defined as either "good" or "evil" except as in comparison to some other thing in relationship to BALANCE. And thus, something may be "evil" in one regard and "good" in another. And furthermore, a true "good" (something nearly perfectly balanced) may be defined as "evil" by others, especially if this "good" harms or hinders those others.
    
    BALANCE, of course, does not take sides; it cannot.
    
    Because living entities generate energy on various levels, and because these energies must obey the laws of the environment in which these entities exist, it inevitably takes on patterns. In living substance, this pattern might be called a life force. All entities have a unique life force that partakes of and comprises ever-larger life-force aggregates as the base of the pattern increases (single entity to "family" to group to planet to star system, etc.). And, any single life-force may be part of several different larger life-force aggregates, depending on its affinities.
    
    Such aggregates are capable of action, within the laws of the universe. As these have no corporeal form (being essentially patterns of energy), they tend towards change more than towards stasis. HOWEVER: forming the contrast of (and balancing factor to) these life-force aggregates is inertia or stasis, due to that which does not live, but exists, and therefore has its own pattern and power (all inanimate substance, shape and form).
    Because both living and non-living forms are composed of equally similar structures of ordered-chaos (atoms and molecules, etc.), then they both combine as an overall force, one which merges the inertial-force aggregates with the life-force aggregates on both small and large scales (ecosystems). This overall force is further augmented and influenced by those energies which have no corporeal form, but which exist and have their own power and force. All such energyforces can be tapped, if the methods to do so are known (just as any energy may be tapped). Because these systems and energies have a pattern, they will tend to exert force against anything which has a non-complementary pattern (and, consequently, with anything with a complementary pattern). This is totally indiscriminate, and is a natural phenomenon, irrespective of anyone's faith and/or morality.
    
    Such aggregates, as described previously, are often called gods and/or demons. Inasmuch, incidentally, as ritual worship directs patterns of energyforce concentrated and focused in the effort to control or influence these aggregates, such activity does have an effect, but less so than direct tapping. Such forces and patterns can and do manifest themselves in various myriad shapes and forms, but may only do so (and act in accordance) with the laws of this universe.
    
    Within the realms of existence, BALANCE directs Life as a whole, but generally affects any given individual only as a series of off-sets. And furthermore, these off-sets come only as a result of action or non-action by these cosmic forces (which act of their own accord, without any malice or benignity intended).
    
    Most beings (even ones with high levels of self-awareness and intelligence) find it difficult (if not, in their own lights, "impossible") to fathom and/or accept the system of BALANCE, Chaos/Order, and the principles surrounding this system. Generally, they find it easier (and less thought-provoking) to believe in and worship "Good" and "Evil" ("Good's" role as defined by their own needs), and that the inertial- and life-force aggregates are "gods/demons" which embody "Good" and "Evil," respectively. THESE ENERGYFORCES ARE NOTHING OF THE KIND, but because they can indeed be influenced, they may act in "good" or "evil" ways (or both) --- according to the direction(s) given them by their worshippers. Such acts are not truly "good" or truly "evil," as these are merely harmful or helpful to those worshippers and not directed at Balance or Imbalance as a whole. The adherence to the belief in "Good/Evil" ("gods/demons") does have an effect on the universal environment, and worshippers can actually sense the force(s) they (attempt to) influence. Yet, while such worship lends a sense of safety and accomplishment (for these people feel both protected and served by these "gods"), it is nevertheless both deceptive and ineffective in the long run.
    
    Whether BALANCE is an ultimate remains to be seen. Certainly it is the only Force which encompasses the totality of all energy-forces in this universe. Certainly it contains all other known forces -- as Imbalance is merely the absence of Balance, where Chaos is not the absence of Order, but its opposer. As there is a lack of any other similar Force, and no other energy-force and/or inertial-force can be seen to wholly affect or influence BALANCE, it will be presumed -- until some evidence appears to the contrary -- to be the Ultimate Force.
    
    PAGAN DEISM "IN DEFENSE OF THE ESSENCE"
    
    There will always be those who either do not know, understand or even recognize the tenets and principles of Pagan Deism.
    
    Others, in their ignorance and/or prejudice, tend to qualify its doctrines as a fantasmal faith ("I think you made it up!") or an adulterated interpolation fabricated out of whole cloth ("a religious jigsaw puzzle"). People are often so set into their own ideas that the simple truth of the BALANCE escapes their notice. Others, when they do notice, just "can't" understand what it's all about. After all, no good, no evil, no "divine" rewards or eternal punishment, no Deity to worship nor Commandments to obey --- how can we believe what we do?
    
    At times, it's difficult to explain the fact that the principles we believe in are much older than the systems of belief that contain them. At other times, it's even more trying to combat the pessimism embodied in their disbelief ... how can that be "all there is to it"? Perhaps it's just a little "too" simple; most of human religion is so hopelessly complex that simplicity is generally thought sacrilegious or even the work of "evil spirits." The boogie-man is often very real to some people, just as real as the "Heavenly Father" (or Great Earth Mother) who guides, protects and "forgives" them.
    
    It's not that we don't "believe" in the boogie-man (or the Heavenly Father or Mother), as spirits or forces per se, we just don't take it "personally." As we study natural and Cosmic laws; we have come to understand that all these spirits (which seem beneficial & harmful) are natural forces which move and arrest the universe around us. None of any of this is done to hurt us or protect us ... but simply to move and arrest all things according to their own innate nature (nothing more). No scapegoats, no divine salvation, no Heavenly Plan, just simple Cosmic Law and the undeniable reality of the way it works --- all the time in all situations.
    
    All Pagan Deism does is strip away all the trimmings that decorates most religions --- all the pretty frills that end up doing nothing more than clutter up these simple truths ... laying bare the basic essentials that work all by themselves, without any fanfare, without belief or worship or even scapegoat sacrifice. Cosmic law needs none of this --- for its power is beyond anyone's imagining or fantasy, existing of its own accord whether we believe or not.
    
    In fact, Pagan Deism's concepts have origins which are as old as the Living Earth Herself ... for at its heart, Pagan Deism is simply the observation, celebration and adherence to Cosmic Law and the essence of the BALANCE, which is the utmost and ultimate manifestation of the GodForce as we know, understand & experience it. All things, whether beneficial, harmful, joyful, sorrowful, delightful or melancholic, are all manifest in the light and shadow of the BALANCE --neither good nor evil, simply unmistakable in all its terrible beauty & glory (a power which cannot be denied - -- which CAN destroy us, but is so detached so as not to take particular note of us).
    
    As a principle, this might be more abstract (and hence less tangible) than most human religion today, but it quite simply and more accurately represents the Cosmos as it is, without any added decoration.
    
    It therefore follows that most (if not all) religions may be encompassed by explanations inherent in the principles of Pagan Deism (Chaos/Order/Balance), but Pagan Deistic belief is not so easily encompassed or explained (away) by principles inherent or contained within those found within monotheism, polytheism or any other known religion, philosophy or faith.
    
    "After all, what is sin? Is not the Deity a personification of what we love and fear most in ourselves? Is there one 'God?' Or are there two --- is not Satan (the Fallen Angel) also a 'god?' And what of the Trinity --- one or three? What about religions with four 'gods,' five or more * or a thousand 'gods,' in the form of spirits, demons, et al.? Not true, you say? Why ---- aren't these as valid as any other? And how do you truly, actually know? For each faith says that it is, and declares all others to be false (and the work of 'devils').
    Why? Are the 'gods' of Egypt any less valid than the 'Lord God Jehovah?' Is 'Shiva' and 'Krishna' false just because some other faith says so? And if this is so, then why is this so?
    
    "One can scarcely deny that there is a Power and Spirit behind and within all things, but it remains without opinions (and morals are only that). For the fire in your hearth that warms your home, cooks your food and lights your way is the same fire that burns cities, forests and people. It does not matter at all to the fire, whose only purpose it is to burn. So it is the same with this Power; it doesn't matter at all. Like the ever-changing river, it can nurture us or destroy us. And whether we are prosperous or drowned in the floodwaters, the river stays the same ... and it endures.
    
    "And when this Power lifts us up, so that we are ennobled and inspired to do great things, those of lesser understanding call it 'God.' But if it is used for pain, suffering and
    degradation, these same people call this Power 'Satan.' Yet the Power is both, in its own way. It is how we name it and how we use it that makes this Power seem to be one or the other."
    
    [The above paraphrased from le Comte St. Germain (as authored by C. Yarbro)]
    
    ON WORSHIP
    
    We do not worship --- we celebrate our faith; we live it all the days of our life.
    Our celebration is best expressed -- not in words -- but by our deeds.
    
    To us, religion is a form of ritual celebration --- "play" in its most mystic aspect. When we invoke (any aspect of) the BALANCE, we are summoning & acknowledging a great and awesome Power which can destroy us ---- yet is this GodForce used by us to create (change) and celebrate --- in other words, to "play."
    
    We consider "Play" mystic, ritual celebration: the sum-total of all culture --- for it contains movement, order, change, solemnity, mirth, rhythm and rapture. And although work insures life, "play" makes our lives worthwhile ---- for it calls our attention to the wonder of all the universe and its voyage through our destiny.
    
    When we celebrate our faith, we make it festive and special. Ceremony is what binds us together with one another and the GodForce's energy and power and sparks our imaginations to soar past the mundane. It helps us to focus (or channel) our abilities so as to become our dreams and reach our goals.
    
    When we use the ceremony as a tool, we get beyond the performance of the ritual, and arrive at the center where everything has already happened and Balance is, at least momentarily, forever.
    
    We can then say to the world:
    
    "I Dance, oh God(dess)!
    I leap joyfully,
    As You first taught me how.
    I leap for Love:
    From love to knowledge,
    From knowledge to fruition,
    From fruition to understanding.
    Nature, thou art the God(dess)
    Who remains and circles evermore.
    
    "Rose on the thorn --
    Bee on the honey ---
    Eagle-winged,
    Wolf-proud,
    Full moon in thy course!"
    
    We continue to remain aware of our surroundings, both our eyes open. Only in this way can we walk this path of the BALANCE. This is our celebration, as members of the Pack; this is the only way how we will Walk the Way of the Wolf, to Sing the Song of Lykos.
    Willfully and knowingly we shall sing, of joy and sorrow. We are eternally free-souled, and we know that our words and deeds have consequence.
    
    SO SHALL IT BE!
    
    A final note: Since some of the occasions we celebrate are the same seasonal holydays as mainstream pagans, and since we will employ ritual as a catalyst (to affect the Overmind(s) direction), there will be some who insist that we "must" be pagans, too (since pagans worship using the same methods).
    
    In truth, there is nothing wrong in thinking so, for it is quite natural (the law of association applies here, too). But we are no more pagan than a wolf and bear are twin brothers. Invocation, ceremony and ritual celebration are used, symbolically, to create change (what we believe to be the very purpose of our "mystic play"), to set the psychic and spiritual "stage;" in other words, to reawaken that special part of you that -- in most people -- remains asleep forever.
    
    ON DEDICATION AND YOUR PURPOSE
    
    Pagan Deists do not worship --- not by using prayer, sacrifice or any other method as used by more conventional religions. We choose a much harder path by living our faith. We call this method Dedication.
    
    Dedication is the application of skills and strengths towards the achievement of your life's goals, and by setting aside acts, items and oneself in order to fully focus and channel these for use. Its only spiritual analogue is that of zazen, a Yogic technique, whereby one does all in total dedication to "God;" its literal translation is "walking meditation."
    
    But in order to Dedicate yourself to your Purpose, you must first discover what your Purpose is. This is the fundamental reason for your stay in this life (it might even. be the primary reason for all your lives; this is possible). Many methods can be used to discover your Purpose: reflection, meditation, ritual, prayer, dreams, visions .... sometimes simply asking yourself pertinent questions can suffice (especially if you're either cynical about or just not used to dealing with more esoteric techniques).
    
    Think: To what goals have I been directing my resources? What are my affinities --- healing, creating, building? Am I (generally) a chaotic or an ordered person? What are my skills? Am I a Hunter? Defender? Engineer? Leader? Thane? Caretaker? For the sake of the Whole (and your own self), be without self-importance in the telling --- and be as brutally honest as you can. Remember that even the omega-caste wolf has its place: no ranking is without purpose --- even the most mundane or menial task is as important as the most grandiose or momentous.
    
    Very little would ever get done if all of us were Caesar or a general; the front-line soldier, the ditch digger, the camp followers, and the clerks were as important as the king and his commanders in any war (some, in fact, were more so). So be harsh with yourself, and discover the Path that will take you where you are destined to go. THIS IS IMPORTANT --- and worth taking the time to consider.
    
    If all your life is occupied discovering this, then that is your Purpose in this life; you are then a Student. If not, then remember your Purpose well, for you will be spending your entire existence in fulfilling it. Once you have arrived at the conclusion of your careful scrutiny and reflection, then remember at all times your niche in the cosmic gestalt ---- and never fail to act according to your Dedication.
    
    Whatever you say or do (or are silent or inactive about) will have consequences that will inevitably be felt, by you and by others (within your immediate sphere of influence and also totally outside your domain. In other words, even though you may not immediately or personally witness or experience the consequences of fulfilling your Purpose, that does not mean that it has not indeed happened. This is like asking, "if a tree falls in a forest, and no one hears it fall, does it make a sound?" Of course it does; physical, natural laws don't stop happening simply because no one's there to witness it.
    
    Then learn what you are capable of, and be honest in the process. Find your affinities and then hone these to a razor's edge. Be focused and self-possessed.
    
    REMEMBER THAT THIS IS *NOT* WORSHIP OF ANY SORT. This has nothing whatsoever to do with hocus-pocus or spells or even ritual anything, although there is nothing wrong at all with using such as symbolic aids or tools. Spiritual and mental energies are very effective when spent on the non-physical aspects of a situation.
    But while (chanting, meditation, candleburning, you fill in the blank) can help you achieve your Purpose, sheer physical effort is also required. Yet even so, a weak mental attitude or effort will sabotage you by encouraging a weak, ineffective physical effort. This is an application of a very pragmatic sort that maintains a highly spiritual belief in the midst of a very material world ---- for it allows religion and technology to interface successfully.
    
    True, it's not easy: this requires you to continually think and consider before you respond (which is a lot more than some are willing to do), but you will want to use your brain in order to succeed.
    
    Considering consequences is how you walk the Wolf's Way honorably (and, in truth, there is no other way to do so).
    
    ON DEALING WITH PEOPLE OF OTHER RELIGIONS
    
    It is certainly true enough that there are those (conventional, mainstream religions) who consider such "free-soul" faiths (like our own) "dangerous" (and the work of "devils," and want such "wiped off the face of the Earth"). It is also true that many (of these religions) have fetters that would bind the soul forever --- rather than set it free.
    
    BUT NEVER INSULT THEIR BELIEFS. For such comforts them, and what might seem fetters to the free-soul are hallmarks of safety and security to the "true believer" ---- from a religion that they have chosen to rule their lives for them, rather than choosing to rule themselves. This is an option that all of us must choose, but one that most people surrender up by default, for they accept, without question, the hidden lessons of parents and teachers from before (whether formal and informal). Wolves rule themselves and reserve the right to disagree with the packleader.
    
    Therefore, listen to me carefully: NEVER, NEVER, NEVER, NEVER BELITTLE ANOTHER'S FAITH OR RELIGION. NOT EVEN ONCE. NOT EVER. NOT EVEN A TINY LITTLE BIT. NOT EVEN IN JEST.
    
    That you may disagree or fail to comprehend is one thing, but there is no excuse for (nor purpose in) ridicule or insult by word or deed. That others around you may do so (to you and/or to others) never justifies such condemnation ---- for it reduces your worth among others and dishonors your self. And you simply cannot EVER afford that. Even when you find what they say or do objectionable in the (so-called) name of their beliefs, it is not their faith that does this, but their own opinion of their beliefs. THIS IS AN IMPORTANT DISTINCTION.
    
    Believe this: any and all systems of belief (religions, philosophies, etc.) share a common, much-needed purpose: to raise power: to heal, guide and strengthen the soul and spirit. In doing so, they serve the community at large by attempting to create (and celebrate) a world where each individual may live with others in such a way so as to help these others, and each system (or religion) has certain (sometimes similar) guiding principles to aid in this effort.
    
    ONLY WHEN YOU YOURSELF (OR YOUR PACK) IS DIRECTLY AND SPECIFICALLY ATTACKED SHOULD YOU EVER RESPOND IN SELF-DEFENSE --- and only when you are ready and able to accept the consequences for having done so. Yet, even when made necessary, such is seldom likely to produce any beneficial results. Keep this in mind: a debate with a closed mind is useless.
    
    And also: it is very natural to (want to) vent your spleen when answering the allegations, taunts, or the words and deeds of certain malcontents "with an agenda" --- but you must remember that you have only succeeded in lowering yourself to the level of the lowest "common" denominator and accomplish nothing. Simply refuse to react and respond instead, by gearing your responses to the "audience" --- those who are secretly or openly listening (for nothing you do or say will ever sway or convince your harasser).
    
    Let yourself keep a cool and calm exterior --- even in your passion (let your attacker be the one who becomes rabid and fanatical). Instead, let your knowledge move you to a quiet, inner strength that will surely manifest as you defend yourself.
    
    When power itself is used inappropriately or "wrongly," then gentle correction may be in order. But remember: rarely is any such appreciated, even when given with true concern or sincerity (and even if coming from within the Pack).
    
    ON POWER (WHITHER COMES IT?)
    
    First, four tenets for power:
    
    
    1. Be able to visualize what you want;
       
       
    2. (OF COURSE)
       
       CONSIDER WHAT YOU INTEND TO DO AND THE CONSEQUENCES;
       
       
    3. Having done so, have the fortitude to finish what you start, and:
       
       
    4. Will yourself to learn how to do this --- AND THEN DO IT.
       
       Pretty simple, isn't it? Visualize, consider, finish what you start, and DO IT. But you must NEVER, NEVER, NEVER do it any differently if you wish to accomplish what you set out to do.
       
       But it then comes down to where the power comes from. And the answer is: EVERYWHERE, and nowhere. And it doesn't matter.
       
       Whether power comes from the psychic strengths of the Pack (via trance or "ritual"), from the Living Earth Herself, from the "gods" and "goddesses," from "science" or any other place, the Source remains the same (all else is mere semantic labelling). Power is power, whether it comes from a team of straining draft horses or a jet engine. And each person will find that their needs differ, so (of course) they will discover differing methods to accomplish the same goal --- even as different engines serve similar purposes.
       Know that imagination has a key role to play in visualizing power -- to concentrate fully on the goal -focusing your will on the end result.
       
       Yet do not let your own imagination run wild (for so will run your power). Emotions are good; do not deny them. But do not let them get away from you --- for only by harnessing them will the goal(s) be reached.
       
       Train your imagination for your "work" --- the steeds of your thoughts should be controlled by you, the rider, or run-away emotions and imaginations can result in utter disaster.
       
       Learn to wisely handle the tools you use. Do nothing in the pursuit of this Power (and knowledge) that you might be afraid to admit to in the morning's light.
       
       ON DECISIONS AND COMMITMENTS
       
       If, after careful and deliberate consideration, you have decided to let loose the bonds of a religion which you no longer accept, then overlook nothing. Know the consequences and understand what you are doing.
       
       For some, a ceremony seals the commitment (although, of course, it's not required). And if this is true for you, then (knowing clearly your own needs and desires) for 3 times on 3 consecutive nights, light a candle to symbolize the light of your reason and forcefully say:
       
       "I am free;
       My soul is free --
       And I wear no one's shackles.
       I am free;
       My soul is free --
       I follow the paths I choose."
       "I am Lykos, the wolf and the light.
       I choose to pay my own way.
       I remain responsible for what I do and say."
       
       [Or anything of similar ilk]
       
       Again, whatever works for you (it'll mean nothing if the symbols do not contain powerful meaning for YOU). The important thing is to declare war on those shackles that have bound you up until now. For this particular ceremony/ritual, it might also help if you visualized those chains, the better to further visualize them being blasted off (with bolts of pure energy, like lightnings). As you do so, see the lightnings drive away the (spiritual) darkness from the room, as does the candle's flame. Visualize the candle like a great brazier, burning with a huge bluish flame (blue is a color that seems to symbolize enlightenment for many people, but of course, you must use the symbology that works best for you).
       
       It goes without saying that you cannot expect anything to magickally or instantly happen to you; these chains (of blind faith's dogma, superstition and fear) have been holding on tight all your life until now and, in truth, you'll be battling the deep-set , subconscious conditioning for a long time to come.
       
       But while the effort may never truly end, perseverance and sheer willpower will always pay off.
       
       In any case, after performing such a "ceremony," it is always a good idea to perform a "ritual" cleansing (do something like symbolically cleaning your room or house, or take a "shower," for example). This is usually because it likewise symbolizes your ending your "old" ways, and going on to the new. It's as simple (and as difficult) as that.
       
       BUT: Never use (or abuse) any other prayer or ritual that belongs to another religion or faith for the purpose of rejecting or even abandoning it (like some mainstream pagans say the "Lord's Prayer" backwards, for example), for just as the perversion of "heathen" symbols has hurt and angered us, so must the perversion of their symbols (and rightly so).
       
       ALSO: It does not add or lend power to your ceremony if you do so. Instead, it ties you all the more firmly to the system of belief which you have chosen to reject, for it makes your ritual the inverted mirror of theirs ---- and you will draw your strength from them and not from your own newborn free-soul. You would then continue to be dependent on their power, not your own.
       
       ON SELF-PURIFICATION
       
       Pragmatically, any action where you can visualize the discarding (cleansing) of undesired and/or harmful influences and the infusing of protective and/or beneficial influences can be used.
       
       You may borrow, if you feel unable to create your own, from more familiar & "comfortable" sources. Always remember never to dishonor these if you choose to do so.
       Any type of ritual or ceremonial cleansing is useful. Wearing ritual or ceremonial garb (specifically for the purpose of visualizing protective influences) is also helpful.
       It goes without saying that your health is very important. And all items or props used for ritual or psychic purposes shall, of course, be kept in good repair and clean.
       Maintenance of the Temple (both within oneself and without) in all ways is always important, whether it be edifice, bodily care, mental or spiritual balance.
       
       BALANCE, as ever, is the key.
       
       ON RITUAL
       
       In reality, all ritual is a tool --- an aid for concentration. All props, words and costumes serve only as a focus. The true adept should be able to accomplish the same goal using nothing but the Dedicated, focused mind.
       
       It is always easier to focus on the goal if some sort of "device" (visual, olfactory, audile, or etc.) is used, so long as its true purpose is remembered. And, to that end, Pagan Deism does have such, in the form of ritual ceremonial celebration. But we do not use such for the purpose of worship; these are the means to the end result, the methods instead of the reasons themselves.
       
       When we invoke the Huntress to aid in Hunting (whether for food or for knowledge, for example), then we are actually summoning (calling upon) the "Hunter-aspect" in ourselves (the Hunter-Goddess being the avatar or symbol of that aspect): an abstract, ritualized shape or form The result of such invocation will be the summoning of the "Hunter" energyforce that is within and behind all of a similar bent --- which pervades and binds the "huntingness" in and of all things.
       
       In actuality, there is no "Hunter Goddess," save the one "created" by belief and faith. There is, however, a purpose in "creating" Her, wherein you may draw upon inner qualities (energy) and the GodForce's energy (that aspect which corresponds to Hunting) --- visualized with a recognizable face and garbed with symbolically-appropriate raiment. And such is equally true of all such avatars as these, so that the invoking and summoning affects the universal forces and our daily lives.
       
       Although most tend to formalize abstract concepts into "deities" (particularly those who are unable -- or unwilling -- to conceive of things as being multi-faceted), Pagan Deists know that the "deity" comes from within, and is given form and power by those who believe, and that is all.
       
       THIS IS NOT TO SAY THAT FORCES COMMON TO ALL DO NOT EXIST, OR THAT THEY ARE POWERLESS. All predators (for example) share common characteristics ---- the commonalities of "huntingness" are those that make someone a Hunter. And the more that one concentrates on such qualities and focuses on them, the better hunter s/he will become (whether of bodily or spiritual sustenance). In so doing, we focus patterns of energyforce on the desired goal.
       
       "SPELL" CASTING
       
       Even the most confirmed skeptic acknowledges the power of suggestion. Symbols, images and ritual implant ideas or beliefs in the mind of the user. Such has enabled firewalkers and other such tantrics to perform their seemingly impossible acts.
       By using set concepts in ritual or ceremonial fashion, the user is influenced to actualize these items (so Voudoun or Australian aborigines work their spells). Modern medicine dubs these "placebos," but does not deny their efficacy.
       
       So a confidence-building spell does, in fact, bring confidence, which then helps to create success. No spell, however, elaborate, however much belief and effort goes into its making, can defy the laws of the universe. They can, however, aid the user in employing these laws to the user's benefit. Each spell should be created and/or used carefully, in conjunction with symbols appropriate to it. Kennings and alliterative verse are traditional, but not required.
       
       Below are some very general symbols:
       
       GROWTH FERTILITY DEATH
       Green brown/green/red white/black
       Flowers, plants blood bones
       seeds horses/rams salt
       horns, circles
       
       PROTECTION CHANGE POWER
       stones/weapons the moon silver
       dogs/roosters/geese the sun
       mirrors
       
       Use whatever is appropriate to you (this is most important, for how else can it have any significance to your ritual?).
       
       ON TOOLS AND INCANTATIONS
       
       The very first thing you should remember is that there are no "absolutely necessary" tools, or methods, etc.
       
       Every adept practitioner of Pagan Deistic "magick" needs nothing but the disciplined, focused power of their own mind. We do not need what are essentially props and atmosphere, although these are (of course) aids for concentration.
       
       Symbols often help visualization, and it is always easier to channel your energies and focus them efficiently if one uses such. These can be as simple and economical as table salt and a votive candle, or a more complex and expensive investment. It's also helpful to have a special place set-up (in your home or in your own mind) where you can concentrate more fully. Always: remember to use whatever makes you more comfortable.
       
       BOTTOM LINE: IF IT WORKS, USE IT. But: If it's not straight-forward, or if it uses words, terms or concepts which you (a) don't understand, (b) feel ambivalent about, or: (c) are uncomfortable with, then the strength of your focus is lessened. This is also true if you are not focused, or if you include more than one purpose or goal. And if you include words, terms or concepts that contradict what you want, then you are working to cross-purposes.
       
       Having said that, do understand that "hocus-pocus" can work when you remain focused and if you give it meaning. But you may also discover that other methods may work as well or better for you, because their power (meaning) already exists for you.
       
       Any kind of spiritual, "shamanic," religious or quasi-religious method of focusing, energy-channeling or discipline (such as yogic techniques, controlled or focused breathing, meditation, using chanting, incense, or etc.), are only some of the many excellent methods to teach concentration, discipline, and control, which will assist in directing patterns of energy on the desired goal(s). The idea is to empty the mind of all thoughts but the desired goal. Just remember that these are an aid to the goal --not the goal itself. Once that self-control is attained, then we may proceed to the achievement of the purpose, and a well-trained mind can eventually switch in and out of this control at will, without any props or even mnenomics.
       
       Other things to note are these:
       
       Rhythmic verse (or rhyme) is easier to remember than straight prose, but words will work whether these are rhymed, alliterative prose or simple conversation (but they should contain meaning for you. If you do use poetic wordage, remember to work it out so that the flow of the words is consistent; a bad rhyme can jar as you say it, breaking your concentration and focus (There is also much to be said for rehearsal, especially when in a group).
       
       A short verse is easier to remember than a long one. "Ancient" incantations work well only if they have an invested power that strikes you (this might be because you observed it used before -- and it worked -- or because the meter/rhyme is well-written, or because it uses words or terms that contain powerful meaning for you).
       
       Use whatever works best for you.
       
       WHY WE STILL USE RITUAL
       
       [Paraphrased from Scott Cunningham]
       
       Many wonder: if we do not worship our concept of Divinity, then why do we employ ritual and ceremony to affect changes in our environment? The answer is simple, but detailed.
       
       To explain: There is a power in the universe. It is the power within life (& death). All that is manifest is a product of this power. This is that which is acknowledged (and worshipped) by every religion we (have) know(n). By this definition, magic(k) is the release of the personal power within a person, combined with the energies of (other) natural objects, such as stones, herbs, etc.
       
       Natural objects (even humans) all contain bands or spectrums of different types of this power. While only one type of energy exists, the physical form in which it is manifest determines its specific characteristics. Thus, for example, the herb rosemary contains certain energies which may be used (to raise & channel power) for a variety of "magickal" purposes, even if symbolically.
       
       This type of energy within our bodies is constantly changing in accordance with our thoughts, wishes/needs & (our own) physical condition.
       
       This power can be roused & concentrated. Personal power is "awakened" through concentration & visualization, using symbols that are familiar (and therefore powerful) to us: through the use of music and/or chanting, through dance (and symbolic gestures). The energies within stones, herbs & other objects can be roused with ritual naming ("thou art [this]) & the assigning of certain (symbolic) attributes (& powers) mentally: During such operations, the adept releases the energies within these objects, "touching" them in a metaphysical senses, and sets these (energies) stirring.
       
       This power can be "programmed," "attuned," or "fine-tuned" to effect a specific result. This is accomplished within the adept as well as in the natural objects used in the ritual. This usually occurs after the adept has sensed the energies within hirself & those objects to be used. These energies are then mentally "focused" or narrowed down to the ritual's purpose, such as healing or divination (seeking after knowledge).
       
       Scent, color, texture(s), all seek to "activate" the power of the adept, when combined with the innermost energies of the "tools" of the physical components of the "spell."
       
       This process entails symbolic visualization, creating & holding certain images or concepts in the mind. When all the energies to be used in the ritual are at the proper pitch & frequency, all is ready for the actual transference of power to purpose.
       
       During this "attuning" process, candles may be lit, symbols may be scratched or inscribed on bark, or etc., words may be stated, but such ritual actions only serve to intensify concentration on the task at hand.
       
       This power can then be moved and directed. In other words, the attuned (channeled) power can be freed from the confines of the adept and the objects used ritually and sent out towards the goal. Once the energy has been freed (from its material form), it is no longer bound by physical laws. At this point, distance and time have no meaning. A true adept can move it ten inches or ten thousand miles, from "now" to years in the future, to do its work.
       
       The power can be moved in the same fashion as it is roused & attuned --- through visualization, ritual movements & words (etc.) and concentration.
       
       This power, once moved, has an effect on its target.
       
       Because everything extant contains greater or lesser "amounts" of this same divine energy or power, all things can be affected, to one extent or another, by introductions of similar energies. This is the fulcrum of ritual and ceremonial "magick" --- and the providence of every adept of every religion (whether by "spell," prayer or meditation).
       
       Exactly how this works, no one is quite sure. Perhaps a reasonable analogy goes along with the introduction of food color into water. While the water itself hasn't beendramatically altered, the addition of food color has created a blend of both substances --- color and water.
       
       "Magick" seems to work the same way. For example, healing energy sent towards a sick or wounded person (or pet) doesn't actually heal, but seems to kick the body's (self-) healing processes into gear.
       
       Magick (or whatever you call it) is a form of ritual drama --- a series of physical, mental & psychic ("magickal") actions designed to rouse, program, release & direct divine energy for a specific purpose. In this, as in all things, the names (or the props) do not matter. It is only the Power -- within all things -- that does.
       
       Belief isn't enough (to make "magick") & faith isn't enough. Belief is uncertainty (for it implies that the "believer" might be incorrect). Instead, it takes knowledge & practice: knowing these principles to effect results. Belief by itself can become a crutch, like an idea that often has little more than emotional discharge to back it up. But eventually, through experiencing how "magick" works, belief firms into certain knowledge. Knowledge is power, and it is this that empowers a "spell" or the "magick" in a ritual or when we invoke energies to create changes in spirit (& matter).
       
       And when done so, such can neither be called supernatural or irrational, no more than electricity is to the uninitiated. Remember, it is HOW we use what we learn (and unlearn) that creates change, not what we believe (or even whether we do).
       
       TOOLS AND METHODS USED IN A "SPELL"
       
       A costume helps to focus the mind --- to set the proper energy channeling into motion, and may help you identify with the goal (and if in a group, such can be a unifying influence).
       
       Salt, water, and a candle's flame are excellent symbols of purification and protection, and (if used) a salt cellar, water bowl and candleholder would, of course, come in handy. A clean table cloth is helpful (and more decorative than its lack), and a book of ceremonies is certainly better than a loose bunch of papers (always getting lost).
       
       Nothing is necessary.
       
       In Pagan Deistic ritual, the knife is worn (particularly among its clergy) to symbolize both independence and the piercing of ignorance by twin-edged knowledge (which is, along with Balance being twin-natured, one of the major reasons that the double-edged blade is particularly symbolic of that part of Pagan Deistic belief). You may choose to wear one or not, as you wish; if you do, know how to use it & give it a name to infuse it with its own spirit (along with your own).
       
       Tools used and reused during your own ceremonies and rituals should be personal ones. Those of the Group (Pack/Temple), if any, should be used for no other purpose, the better to keep their psychic (electromagnetic) charge.
       
       The following tools are often used:
       
       
       
       1. An incense burner (censer, firebowl, etc.) AIR
          
          
       2. A waterbowl (preferably NOT of plastic) WATER If you choose one of stone, ceramic or glass, it can be symbolic of EARTH as well. Be aware that wood is also nice, but unprotected, it can absorb moisture and eventually be ruined.
          
          
       3. Candles and candleholders. FIRE Colors as appropriate.
          
          
       4. A chalice (drinking horn, etc.)
          
          
       5. A dagger (worn to symbolize that you are armed physically and mentally). See above.
          
          
       6. A sword or other large, bladed weapon (axe, etc.). A group weapon --- to symbolize the warding off of harm and the protection of benefit.
          
          Also symbolic of the dual nature of all things (since the purpose of the weapon is dual --- both attack and defense).
          
          
       7. A book containing the rituals, ceremonies and other papers.
          
          
       8. An altar cloth upon which all this is laid (sometimes also an altar or table).
          
          
       
       ON "PLACES OF WORSHIP" (ALTARS)
       
       One may hold or work a ritual anywhere, but the ideal place is one conducive to thought and meditation and free from disruption and (possible) psychic contamination. It should be a place where you feel comfortable and undisturbed.
       
       The area should be controlled. A ritual area for many participants should (of course) be larger than one for an individual. A nine-foot or eight-foot circle is good for rituals involving up to thirteen people; larger groups need more room. Symbolically, "8" and "9" are "complete" numbers (nine equals three, squared and eight equals two, cubed) and, the area enclosed could be a multiple or factor one or both of these numbers (but, of course, it isn't necessary).
       
       In most rituals, the idea is to create a "cone of power" --- to draw strength and power inward and then focus it (outward) to a purpose. A circle (symbolic of unity, with neither beginning nor ending and thus also symbolic of equality and eternity) is an excellent area in which to work a ritual, but is not required. Indeed, circles are usually better for this sort of thing conceptually. Likewise, it is generally easier if you mark boundaries both physically and mentally, so that each participant may better visualize the inner realm and outer realm (that within the circle represents the focus or "inner realm;" that outside the circle the outside world or realm).
       
       Within the circle should be all the tools to be used during the ritual, for once the boundary is so marked, mentally and psychically, no crossing should occur until the ritual's end, or you might disturb the focus (especially for those who are more visually-oriented than others).
       
       When using an altar (or circle or room --- whichever) for a ceremony and/or ritual, the area within should be visualized (and used) like a psionic magnifying glass, or perhaps like a ruby in a laser --- like a focus for the energies of the celebrant(s). Power gathered in is then channeled by the user(s) and "catapulted" outward toward the goal or problem.
       
       ON DEATH AND REBIRTH
       
       The soul is immortal; the body is not.
       
       Like a suit of clothes, the soul "wears" a body for a time, and then discards it (for whatever reason). Each "wearing" (or incarnation) is for the soul to grow and learn, through various experiences. As the soul grows, awareness and reasoning grows, and the soul moves from inanimate thing to plant, from plant to animal, from "unthinking beast" to reasoning, sentient, time-disjuncting beings and so forth.
       
       At each death, the soul rests, even as you sleep after a full day of work. The life lived is evaluated, things learned and unlearned are noted, gauging the benefit and harm that has been done. Things to be learned and unlearned are then determined for the next life, and the incarnation selected. Many variables are possible --- a man in one life may be a woman in the next --- and so forth. But what happens after seven incarnations, seventeen incarnations, seventy or whatever? Is the recurring cycle endless or is there some point to all of this?
       
       Simply put: When the (already immortal) soul has - learned to be in Harmony (Balance) with Universal Laws, then it remembers all (all past lives, all the information gained, etc.) and lives on ... in true peace and harmony with the GodForce forever ---- being whatever it pleases whenever it pleases to: a star, a tree, a human or nonhuman being, taking whatever corporeal or incorporeal form that pleases it, and helping others to progress as its form or shape decrees. This means there is no actual place as Heaven, for each soul has its own and inhabits it, in this universe and in others, according to Cosmic Law.
       
       Lest others complain that this seems dull, I would suggest that these same people equally evaluate the heaven wherein one strums a harp and sings eternal praise to a god (whether one enjoys either harps or singing).
       
       ON GRIEF
       
       Grief, in its own time & place, is healing for the mourner. As we hold reincarnation as the vehicle for the soul's progress, we have come to see funerals (& the new-age alternative of death anniversaries) as something for the mourner (and not the "dearly departed"). Missing somebody is quite natural, but one or two things are forgotten:
       
       
       1. A Pagan Deist (and most pagans and Deists) believe in reincarnation, wherein the soul & spirit of the "departed" (how quaint!) goes on to either inhabit the "next most suitable body in line," or goes on to the next step in achieving ultimate Balance. Why do we never explain what "ultimate Balance" is? Basically because no one has ever gone "that way" and then been back to reveal the particulars to us.
          
          That does not mean we have decided not to believe that it happens. Far from it, in fact…
          
          
       2. But when we "hang on" to a "dearly departed," refusing to let go of the past, we can actually exert power (& pressure) on that "spirit" (for how else can we call them to us "from beyond"?); by holding on with claws extended, can we not even possibly doom the spirit or soul to delay or noncompletion --- for, in a way, are we not selfishly hanging on to someone who desperately needs to go on?
          
          Mourning is like missing someone who has moved away: it's okay as long as we let go of them enough so that they may go onward (to the next life or whatever dimension or plane they are destined to travel to). Otherwise, it's not kind; let them go free ...
          
          TAKE A STAND…
          
          SO WHAT, THEN, IS A WOMAN'S PLACE?
          
          Man only oppresses Woman when he can afford to do so, and indeed: only when she allows him to do so. And she allows it only because the society, as it stands, has a vested interest in keeping the status quo. We have forgotten that, in prehistoric times, everyone hunted and gathered and, in the packgroup, the leader's place was won by dominance and ability --- not gender. Only when artificial controls are instituted is there a different view.
          In nature, a woman's place is a man's place is a wolf s place is a bear's place is a cat's place in this universe. The only things a man cannot do which a woman can are those things which a woman is biologically suited for --and this is the very same for a human versus a dog. And even humankind's artificial tampering with the so-called boundaries of what is supposed to be normal & natural -whatever THAT means -- blurs the lines even more.
          
          A woman can as easily become packleader as any man: the only thing stopping her is her ability and her desire. And, ipso facto, so can a man be a nurturer or craft maker as well as any woman. It only depends on the capacity of the individual, and not on any "deity's" say so or pronouncement, nor the gender or biological background of any one being.
          
          On substance abuse or addiction:
          
          Why does it happen? Most human beings live in eternal childhood --and if you tell any child NOT to do something, well, that's exactly when they'll go out and "do it." Forbidden fruit is always hard to resist. Also, if you consider the state of the world today, it's not surprising that many people prefer to be "elsewhere." Drugging or drinking yourself insensible is quite often a preferred method of escape (at least by most selfish human beings, since it does rather leave other people & the environment out of the picture --- a reasonable definition< of selfish).
          
          Should it happen? A Pagan Deist believes in balance of body, mind & soul, and most substances, when overused or abused, will lead to a disturbance of this balance. Since we believe that the benefit of the group comes before the individual, when an addicted person acts in contradiction to the group's best interests, this becomes counterproductive. Is this good? Well, it depends on who or what it hurts.
          
          Otherwise, any individual who meaningfully contributes to the continued survival and benefit of the Pack has the "right to life (liberty and the pursuit of happiness)" in direct proportion to the danger that person presents to the Pack's benefit and survival (benefit & danger as decided by the Pack). End of statement and end of subject. As a whole, we would say that the above should also include anyone who wanders about in a "medicated" condition.
          
          On premarital/extramarital sex
          Trysting is an expression of mutual dominance, of affection and the only apparent way that two human souls can combine ... and nothing (or nearly nothing) could be wrong or "evil" about that. It should be considered special and even "sacred" instead of all the many ways that humans seem to think of it. Sex only becomes imbalanced when it is used to hurt others, and then the Balance must be regained. Premarital & extramarital sex are sometimes against the laws of the society in which we reside, and in this case, it isn't sinful, but it can and it might hurt somebody. That's when it's "wrong."
          
          On the "evils" of prostitution
          Originally, "prostitution" was the use of tantric (or spiritual) intercourse as a means of worship. Street-walkers were avatars of the goddess (force). My, how things change.
          
          Many seem under the impression that, since sex is "evil" (at least to them), that those who charge for it are heinous (others feel that this is all they are worthy of doing, for the same reasons). It hardly seems "right" that an act developed for the benefit of the race could be thought of in this way, but it is (some things that human beings do will never make sense to me ....)
          
          Some do this kind of work because of the "forbidden fruit" issue previously discussed; some do it because they were fooled, bribed, blackmailed, fill in the blank. Whatever the reason, WE SAY it is not "evil."
          
          Furthermore, we believe that if sex for money were as regulated as any other profession, it might be safer, healthier, less of a moral issue, (and might go a long way to ending the National Debt, in taxes & licensing fees alone). It's worth a thought ...
          
          On homo/hetero-sexual orientations
          Bisexuality, of itself, is a natural situation in the animal kingdom ("God's," if you will). Most predators are heterosexual only in their breeding cycle. Humans are the only creature that seems bothered by it.
          What is particularly interesting is the way that some overly prudish individuals paint the gay community as promiscuous, and unable to commit to a relationship, while at the same time, unwilling to cede to the ones who want a lifetime the ability to do so. Currently, there are countries who allow for gay marriage, and it's been noted that promiscuous,behavior & STDs have been reduced dramatically, and no noticeable destruction of society has been observed. It's interesting…
          
          As re: dogs, children & students (& responsibility)
          
          As a packgroup, we take the viewpoint that you -- as a dog-owner, adult (parent)/teacher -- are liable for those under your supervision and/or care so long as they are in this relationship. And even thereafter, their words and/or deeds shall ever reflect on you, your care & teachings for the remainder of their lifetime, not just part-time.
          
          It remains a sad fact that many people who put themselves in these "positions" are often neither capable (or trained) nor willing to take responsibility.
          
          On using "magick" (or power) for material gain or short-term goals
          [This is probably something I will never be able to fully explain.] It is the hallmark of most other religions (except for Buddhism, for example) that (the) god(s) will hear you if only you say/do the right thing. Most of us feel inadequate, or picked on, or feel a terrible guilt for being what "everybody else" calls selfish; we want Someone (or even Something) to do our "saving" for us. But this, how shall I say it, "assumes facts not in evidence."
          
          First: since people seem to need the definition, we'll start with "short-term." A short-term goal is anything that does NOT lead to your life's purpose (go back to "ON DEDICATION" for a definition of life's purpose). If it's a "right now" situation or simple "fleshly" gratification, then it's a "short-term" goal (I want a better job/I want a boy or girl -friend/pay my bills/etc.). Now we're all human here, and this is very natural. And sometimes there are problems that must be solved before one can go on to achieving one's life purpose (sickness, previous obligations, confusion, or obstacles placed in the way). But we believe in using physical methods FIRST and FOREMOST (and power doesn't really work like that, although it might SEEM to).
          
          As to using "magick" (or channeling power or focusing willpower) on these --- we believe this to be a non-sequitur: you may not bend nature or cosmic law. Also: the only time spiritforces (gods or daemons) will "help" you (but they might also "harm" you; remember, they don't "care") is if you're "in the way" of these forces (rather like walking into a fast-moving body of water), or if you've attracted their "attention" (like: HEY YOU! I WANT and I think it only fair to warn you that doing this, especially aimed at usually very chaotic and active forces, isn't always a good idea. Most people, meaning human beings, don't have the static power to arrest a chaotic spiritforce powerful enough to change physical happenstance).
          
          In the religious world, Pagan Deists are "minimalists" --we only do what we must, when we have to. A Pagan Deist might use non-physical methods (chanting, candleburning, ritual invocation/"hey you," etc.) for the non-tangible parts of a goal --- like assisting in a healing (positive thoughts), in invocation (celebration), in divination, for (general) protection (of your home, place of work, etc. In other words, to banish harmful energies or attract beneficial ones. This is not like a "hey you," but more like putting sunflower seeds out, to attract the birds in your neighborhood, who might then ALSO get rid of the pesky insects that are plaguing you).
          
          Spiritual energies are VERY effective when used this way ... otherwise, we believe that it's rather like using a straining spoon to pick up liquid ... power doesn't really work like that. We have discovered that, if you DID manipulate (some kind of) power to "make" things happen, it was A) probably going to happen anyway, and B) the power probably came from you most of all (and from other "outside" sources only incidentally).
          
          On Why "Bad" Things DO Happen to "Good" People
          Problems always happen for a reason: either as a reaction (to words or deeds done or not-done), or because you attracted the "attention" of someone (or thing) else. THERE IS NO MALICE NOR benign intent, PER SE, EXCEPT FOR THE POSSIBLE GOALS OF CERTAIN PEOPLE (YET EVEN SO, PEOPLE REACT IN RESPONSE TO THEIR SURROUNDINGS --- ACCORDING TO THEIR OWN INNATE NATURE OR PERSONALITY, ETC.)
          
          The first thing to do is NOT panic, nor presume the worst.
          
          The second thing is NOT to whine, moan, complain, or "woe is me." Sometimes "bad" things happen because you are "in the way" of someone else who wants what he wants, and nothing more than that (in other words: not because it hurts or harms you). In a way, we are assuming an arrogance we don't need when we always think this.
          
          But when we look at the situation rationally (which isn't always possible, I know), we actually find out the motivation of the other's actions or words.
          
          When no physical or tangible motivation "appears," then we might look for a not-so-obvious aim or design. For example, this might be part of the path your life is "supposed" to take: to learn a lesson (so that you may grow and continue on to your next life), because of past or past-life mistakes or miscalculations, to break "bad" habits (like housebreaking a dog. When he messes, you rub his nose in it, shake or cuff him, and put him outside ... and bring him back inside later to do better next time).
          
          Whatever we say or do (or are silent or lazy about), we create consequences, whether or not we "meant" it. And just because we didn't "feel" it right away, doesn't mean it didn't happen (and doesn't mean we won't one day "get it").
          
          On Solutions (or What Can We Do About It)
          
          Pretty simple here: solutions take work, patience, and time; plus, you need to have more faith in yourself and your power. Most failures come from a lack of faith. You must integrate your physical, mental & spiritual effort if you mean it to "work."
          
          No one but you is truly capable of creating change in your life --- in celebration of your own unique abilities, talents, and power. If anything comes from "outside" yourself --- it will only be because you have attracted the "attention(s)" of a spiritforce(s) that is already naturally associated with what you want. We do not believe in miracles any more than we believe in curses.
          
          On The "Evils" of Rock N Roll (Rapper/Gangsta) Music
          
          The only objection the Temple has to this type of music is when it's played too loud, especially when it's loud enough to hurt somebody (& just because it doesn't hurt YOU doesn't mean it doesn't hurt someone), or when it (or any other kind of music) praises irresponsible, unbalanced or dishonorable actions. Otherwise, we generally believe one type of music to be no different than any other.
          
          On Giving (In) to Charity
          
          Usually a worthwhile effort to ensure future mutual benefit, in current times of need ... when we consider what we do.
          
          BUT: Never, never, never give to anything you don't believe in, or to anyone you don't care about. Never give unless you (and those you care about) are well taken care of, or if it puts your health or sanity at risk. That's just plain stupid.
          
          We believe in keeping to our own community and causes first. To do otherwise is counterproductive.
          
          QUESTIONS & ANSWERS (Wise Old Sayings Revisited)
          
          "No one can make you inferior without your consent" ---- (Eleanor Roosevelt)
          
          "Belief -- from the secular to the cosmic -- is an act of faith."
          ---- Anonymous
          
          "Excuses are the tools of incompetents that build monuments of nothingness, and those who specialize in them are seldom good at anything else." ---- Anonymous
          
          "You can't walk by faith if you can't see where you're going."
          ---- Anonymous
          
          ON BELIEF (OURS AND THEIRS)
          
          
          1. Where did you "get" your religion from? (Variations: I never heard of Deism before! I think you made it up, etc.)
             
             ">All religions are founded out of the same need for understanding. And each serves a common purpose --- to fulfill needs, to heal, give strength and understanding regarding problems in daily life.
             
             Even though the word "Deism" is relatively new (early 14th century), the concepts behind it are as old as sapient life and the Living Earth Herself .... even before anyone believed, and whether anyone believes or not. It may have been called other things before, but the inherent principles of Pagan Deism have never changed.
             
             Pagan Deism's principles come from simple observation of natural, cosmic Laws, introspective thought, and faith.
             
             
          2. Faith in what? (In other words: if you don't believe in "our God," then what?)
             ">Faith in the Power of the GodForce's spirit, which changes, arrests, pervades, binds, surrounds and is the universe.
             
             And why have faith? If all Truth were known, then faith would not be necessary.
             
          3. How do you know your religion is the Truth?
             
             (Variations: How do you know that "it" is the "Way?")
             
             ">Your question has no answer --- no one has an exclusive on "Truth."
             
             Besides, it's a mistake to question truth simply because you've never "heard of it" before.
             After all, truth isn't "truth" only after you believe in it. This is something like asking if the tree which falls in a nearby forest makes a sound only if somebody is there to hear it fall.
             
             Of course not --- physical, natural laws don't stop happening just because no one's there to see it happen.
             
             
          4. (But) where is Jesus in your church?
             
             ">In the same place as Buddha or Krishna: a historical person who has made a religious impact on humankind.
             
             
          5. “Don't you believe in Jesus (the Christ, etc.)?”
             
             >As a historically-related legend, yes. But not as you (apparently) believe. We believe Yeshua was a historical figure, even as Buddha & King Arthur (Pendragon) were.
             
             
          6. But the Bible says that Jesus is the Redeemer (or Savior or Messiah, etc.)!
             
             ">Each great book of faith will (tend to) say that theirs is the "one true faith" (or the best way, etc.). And the idea of a "redeemer" is not a unique one. Even Odin sacrifices Himself on Yggsdrasil (the Life Tree) for the redemption of the Earth.
             
             For us, religious scapegoats are not needed; we are sapient grown people and can take responsibility for our own words and deeds.
             
             
          7. “But Jesus (the Christ) performed miracles.”
             
             >So did Buddha and King Arthur's Merlin (and so did Artemis and Zeus). Performing "miracles" doesn't prove exclusive divinity.
             
             
          8. "What about the (historical) evidence of Jesus?" ">There is also considerable evidence for Buddha, Krishna, Mohammed, Ahura-Mazda, as well as King Arthur.
             
             In each case, the acts and thoughts of other people (as well as purely imaginary acts) have been attributed to the famous name. This is not uncommon --- such is the stuff legends and myths are made of (remember Paul Bunyan?).
             
             After all, Arthur Pendragon did not, whatever else he did) dress in plate mail or ride a horse (like a 17th century knight); the Holy Grail was originally not a chalice, but a pagan quest. Any connotations of Christian orientation were added to all of it long after Arthur Pendragon's death.
             
             The "history" of Yeshua ("Jesus") may have been similarly adulterated (after all, the first official Bible was released in 365 AD). This is not to say that some of the ideas attributed to him were not admirable ones, even as we also admire King Arthur.
             
             
          9. "But the Bible says ----"
             
             "But the Bible is the (inspired) Word of God ..." (or anything else of similar ilk)
             
             ">Well, two answers come immediately to mind, but remember to be creative (depending on the way the question or comment is phrased...)
             
             
             • The Bible that modern humankind reads today is not the original book. Plus: it's been redefined so many times, by so many different people, that it's difficult to tell what is "truth" (even by Christian standards) and what is not.
               
               
             • Oh, that's interesting --- how do you know (this to be truth)? ("Because it says so." "Where? "In the Bible.")
               
               
             You should always play this one by ear. Other responses to this question/comment can also be: "Because 'God' revealed it to me." (To which you might respond: 'OK, if you say so, but how do you really know?') Or: "Because it is." (Please note: sometimes these kinds of "answers" can get really difficult to respond to unemotionally).
             
             Simply center your answer(s) on the contradictions of this circle logic --- and believing in a book because "the book says so." Anything else is mere semantics, but remember to play to the audience, not your harasser.
             
             
          10. "Don't you believe in letting God rule your life? (".... surrender your life to God?" Etc.)
              
              ">Whose god? Yours?
              
              The GodForce is already the ultimate ruler of all the universe --- the creator of the laws by which the universe operates as well as being the creator of the universe for which these laws were created. No more involvement or "rulership" is needed: E=MC2, gravity, action/reaction, speed of light, etc.
              
              The laws themselves are parts of the GodForce -aspects of the Totality -- and may be easily discovered by simple observation and rational thought. Within these cosmic laws, you are free to speak and act as you will, so long as you consider the consequences of word and deed. And if you don't find out what these laws are, then you're bound to find out --- the hard way.
              
              All animals -- even "Man" -- possess free will to a degree. For example: a dog can choose whether or not to bite --- but she may find that biting results in punishment, and not-biting can result in reward. She does have the option --- but her intelligence tells her which is preferable (usually). Humans have more conscious intellect (and the ability to disjunct time) and less dependence on instinctual intellect, so their range of choices broaden, but they are both of the same nature, each still carrying consequences with them.
              
              For me as a Pagan Deist, that is how the GodForce rules all life, not just my own.
              
              
          11. "(But) don't you believe in sin?"
              
              ">NO --- not if you mean defying the "will of God."
              
              A Pagan Deist knows that "God's" will cannot be defied and that (the) universal laws cannot be ignored nor "broken," for these are natural cosmic laws and you can have no more effect on these than you could single-handedly affect the movement of the galaxy itself.
              
              People make mistakes --- all animals do. And these mistakes don't offend "God" --- they can't. What these do is break rules that govern groups of people. Acting in defiance of social laws or rules is like crossing the street against the traffic light --- in other words, consequences may be forthcoming. But it offends no spiritforce ("God") and carries no cosmic damnation ("from above").
              
              Yet consider: "free will" doesn't also give you (or anyone) carte-blanche to ignore or defy the laws of your social group --- you should (a) understand these rules and (b) follow enough of these rules to get along with Society.
              
              In other words, you should "play" by the rules if you expect anyone to want to "play" with you at all.
              
              
          12. (12) "But then if you don't believe in sin, then how do you know if your actions are 'right?"
              
              ">You know because you use your head --- you consider how these acts might affect others (or the environment). "Without laws, the Pack cannot survive; without the Pack, the wolf will not survive." Pagan Deism is one of the only faiths to combine spirituality & rational thought ... ethics & mysticism, together again.
              
              
          13. "Don't you believe in heaven and hell?"
              
              ">No.
              
              Both concepts are strictly Christian concepts based on the theory that disobedience to a "jealous god" brings eternal punishment and that service to that god brings eternal reward.
              
              We don't believe that any act performed can be so "evil" that it deserves eternal suffering. Any act carries consequences --- ones that will inevitably be felt; as we believe in reincarnation, we also believe that the soul learns through these consequences which acts are good for us, and which ones are harmful ... thereby achieving balance.
              
              
          14. "Don't you believe in any sort of retribution?"
              
              ">Certainly: we believe in the law of karma.
              
              Every life that a soul experiences is meant to aid that spirit to learn Balance (regardless of circumstances). The method by which these lessons are learned can and will vary. Each word and act carries with it its own - consequences --- whether said or not-said, whether done or not-done.
              
              That is karma --- which is not anything to be mooned over as "fate which cannot be changed (oh woe is me!)." Passively using karma as an excuse is not acceptable and a big mistake. Blaming Fate (or "Karma") for your problems is the same as blaming yourself. It shifts no responsibility and it pays no prices (It doesn't even defer payment! ).
              
              As the acting individual, it is your responsibility to "pay the piper" yourself. Because if you don't, then no one else will for you.
              
              
          15. "So what is Deism, anyway? And what is Pagan Deism? Isn't it (some sort of) demon worship or something? Heresy? Satanism?"
              
              ">No.
              
              Pagan Deism (and Deism) is the nontheistic belief in the ultimate impersonal spiritforce of BALANCE --- we can maintain a highly spiritual attitude without believing in any of the hallmarks of more conventional faiths. We are a very basic, nature-oriented free-soul religion. A free-soul faith is one that requires the individual to choose --both the path they will walk and the way of walking it.
              
              All Pagan religions are nature-oriented. They believe in gods (or spirits) of earth, water, fire and air, as well as elementals, sprites, and daemons.
              
              Yet we are not pagan, although we might be considered distant cousins.
              
              It is true, however, that wicca (and thus, witchcraft) is a word fraught with misconceptions. Its original meaning was simply "craft of the wise." Even the word pagan comes from Latin -- paganus -- and simply meant "peasant" --- it was used by Roman invaders to Britannia (or England) to describe the native Britons originally.
              
              Many other words have been similarly "re-translated" throughout the passing millennia. "Devil," for example, is originally a Sanskrit term (from the word "devi"), and means "little god." "Satan" is a Hebrew word that only means "adversary," yet both "devil" and "Satan" have been borrowed by aggressive Christian opponents to describe the "demons" of the opposition (Please note that even the word demon comes from "daemon" --- which really means "spiritforce.").
              
              Anyway, on a more positive note, the word "pagan" (peasant or countrydweller) also denotes the fact that Wiccans are (usually) close to the land, even in the city. In that, we are like our distantly-related "cousins" --- even though our "forest" is covered with asphalt and planted with "trees" of skyscraping concrete and steel.
              
              And as for the "Devil"/"Satan" ---- a true Pagan Deist (or even a Deist) believes that the Christian concept (at least) more resembles the same as a wise man recognizes the illusion of a mirage in the desert. In other words, we no more believe in an "Evil One" than we believe in the very idea of "Evil" itself. To us, "Good" and "Evil" are nothing but value judgements.
              
              
          16. "[Okay, then:] How do you practice your religion?"
              
              ">Simple: we never separate the sacred from the secular. WE BELIEVE IN LIVING OUR FAITH ---twenty-four hours a day, every single day of our lives.
              
              From the divine to the mundane, we truly understand the Zen term of zazen (or "walking meditation"), for we employ conscious and deliberate Dedication, so that everything, from day-to-day living to ceremonial occasions, is to achieve and maintain the Balance.
              
              And, like our pagan cousins, we also celebrate the five seasonal holidays; we believe that these mark changes in living and inertial energies (and in the Living Earth itself) and thus should be of note.
              
              Ritually, these seasonal milestones have also come to symbolize certain attributes and are indicative of Chaos, Order and Balance. We likewise believe that personal milestones (in an individual's life) should be celebrated, for they herald similarly important changes in us.
              
              Finally, we teach, research, inform, serve and guide the community --- knowing full well the value of self-enlightenment and learning.*We do NOT preach, proselytize or attempt to convert --- but simply make ourselves available to those who wish to seek us out.
              
              
          17. "Why do you imitate (worship) the wolf? "
              
              >We don't.
              
              The wolf is Avatar --- First-Friend and First-Teacher. As anthropological research has shown, the wolf showed Ancient Man, by example, much of what is considered admirable in human society today.
              
              First of all: every great faith instills into its People a sense of "group-ness," which practically requires the use of rules of behavior, or "laws. To enrich their lives, a People learns how to work, act and live as a group. And any faith that is folk-based (even if the "folk" are joined through choice) teaches this to an even greater degree.
              
              Anthropologists have learned, through observation, that ancient humankind "followed" the habits & behavior of the wild canids (especially the wolves), realizing that, of all the hunters, the gray wolf was the "people" most "as one" with his environment and his fellows.
              
              They learned, as must we, how to act and work as a group, to realize that the "pack's" survival and benefit must outweigh individual consideration. To know that all must utilize their strengths and assets (and how to minimize their liabilities) in order to protect and provide for the group.
              
              Wolf society is but a mirror of what human society could be.
              
              Emulate the wolf, and the able-bodied and able-minded survive --- male and female together, judged equally by merits, not gender. And a wolf actively pursues his goals, instead of passively waiting for things to seek him out.
              
              Walk the way of the wolf and you don't abuse the land, for it is your life's blood. As hunters, you understand the word "enough," taking care to cull, not slaughter. The wise The wise wolf says, "understand the meaning of Balance. Don't choke your environment with trash or too many people, respect the Packlaws; exercise discipline, restraint and control."
              
              We are thus taught, by example, that the Living Earth is an organism, and that abusing Her will result in consequences that no one will be able to pay. "Manifest destiny" is not humankind's divine right --- but sheer genocide. It is a selfish doctrine --- born of human greed & desire, not from (any) deity's law.
              
              The wise wolf says: "employ assertion in all ye do, yet never engage in nonproductive conflict. No wolf growls without the teeth with which to back up the assertion, and he not only knows how to use them, but when as well. Therefore: recognize coercion; never yield without consent."
              
              You know, perhaps it is a silent testimony to what we believe about these canine companions that the closest non-human ally has ever been the hearthwolf named Dog. Their loyalty seems boundless; they remain the only creature, save Man, who serve because of love. It is also interesting to notice the ease with which a wolf accepts a human as a member of his pack. Maybe they know something we don't --- yet.
              
              ["Why do you worship the wolf?"]
              
              We don't (worship the wolf). To worship is to consider something divine and to use prayer, sacrifice and other forms of religious devotion in pursuit of that worship.
              
              However, we do consider what the wolf symbolizes sacred --- worthy of reverence and respect. And it is enough to treat the wolf as the ally of our lives and as a true Friend deserves --- with affection, honor and respect.
              
              
          18. "Don't you believe that Man (sic) is 'better' than animals?"
              
              ">To assume (or even presume) that only humans are special, unique or important -- or that only our lives are worthwhile -- is the very height of arrogance.
              
              AND the ever-popular:
              
              
          19. "I think you're:
              
              
              • Damned."
                
                
              • Going to hell."
                
                
              • Demon-lovers/worshippers."
                
                
              • (Ad infinitum)"
                
                
              • (Ad nauseam)"
                
                
              • [Fill in the blank] "
                
              
              >Answer? Just be forthright. "That's your opinion; I don't agree with it."
              
              
          20. "Get right with God." "See the light."
              
              ">(I do --- every morning when I get up. Don't you?). It is a sad fact of life that there is very little you can do about comments and "advice" like this; it's like a chant that (supposedly if repeated often enough 'with feeling') is supposed to "save" you. Ignore them if you can, respond only as necessary. Bottom dollar: LET THEM KNOW THAT YOU WILL NOT GO SUBMISSIVE FOR THEM LIKE THE PROVERBIAL OMEGA-CASTE WOLF SIMPLY ON THEIR SAY-SO. As for the rest, let the spirit move you so long as you remember what's been said about your "audience."
              
          
          ON DEATH, LIFE AND WEAPONRY
          
          
          1. "To kill is wrong."
             
             ">(Give me strength!)
             
             All living creatures kill to live. Even an herbivore, who kills the plants it eats, all the insects on those plants, and all that it steps on. Drinking water kills microbes --so does breathing air. Whether our attire is made of cotton or wool (even synthetics are made of extinct once-living tissue) ---- something had to die for it.
             
             From the moment we are born, until we fall for the final time --- we all walk a road that eventually ends. This is inevitable and natural. We are all a part of the Cosmos.
             
             When we use the resources taken (plant, animal or mineral), whether for nourishment, clothing or shelter, this is also very natural. But when we take for "sport," or waste the resources that we have -- for any sort of selfish, unthinking so-called "purpose," then we become abusers, and this becomes like a vicious slap in the face of "Mother Nature," as insidious as any filth heaped upon an innocent, trusting soul.
             
             So don't spit on the Living Earth; don't rape Her or steal Her bounty. For vengeance is a snarling, sharp-toothed bitch, and will pay you back for your abuse.
             
             Remember: the Living Earth is bigger than all of us; if we poison the water, soil and air, She'll just adapt. Her children may die, but mutation is the very spice of life, and Mother's stepchildren will take over all the ecological niches and the Living Earth will survive. But don't think for a moment that we're sacrosanct or so special that we can't be made extinct --- Mother will simply reduce us down to our component parts and make a new species (and maybe this one will be a little more intelligent this time).
             
             
          2. "Killing and eating meat is wrong (I'm a vegetarian, etc.)
             
             ">(How so very nice for you. See the above answer about killing, and:) A human being is the only animal I know who strays from his or her biological niche when (apparently) still healthy --- since biological research tells us that Man (sic) is a natural omnivore. All other living creatures (usually) do that only when sick or maladjusted.
             
             
          3. "Human life is sacred."
             
             "Abortion is murder."
             
             ">We believe that a person has the "right to life" only in strict relationship to the danger that person presents to the survival and continued benefit of the Whole/Pack/Group.
             
             Think it out: If a woman would die because you decide to save the baby instead, then you have "murdered" the mother --- you have chosen to "murder" one of them, saving one over the other. And it is a cop-out to "let God decide" --- besides, you might lose them both in the bargain.
             
             We believe that -- all other things being equal -- a producing groupmember has more rights than a non-producing groupmember, because that individual has already put resources into the group. We also believe that no one person has the right-to-life if at the expense of the entire group. Remember, if you cannot care for yourself, how can you care for anyone else? And the Pack might not have the resources to care for a newborn (it is actually very expensive).
             
             True, allowing adoption is nice (when you can), but keep in mind that you have merely transferred the entire obligation into the hands of another (group). When you believe (as we do) that we are ALL interconnected, then adoption solves nothing and "saves" no one. Besides, you might not always have that option or choice, so you cannot depend on it, nor use it as an excuse to hold on to the fetus. What happens when it is born, and you are no closer to a solution than before? What happens then?
             
             Of course, contraception is naturally the better option; it is far less costly and dangerous than is abortion. But, unfortunately, sometimes abortion is a necessary, though most unpleasant, task.
             
             
          4. "Capital punishment is wrong."
             
             ">A pathological murderer can certainly not be permitted to live within society; eternally caging such a person is actually rather cruel (because it forces that person, family, children, & loved ones to know deprivation): and wasteful (because it unnecessarily spends resources on someone who consumes without providing in return). This is not even mentioning the problems incurred by the creation of a society-within-a society (that has no ruling entity at all).
             
             Now, if people didn't stop being producing groupmembers just because they need to pay (the Group back) for their mistakes --- then prisons might be less of a problem than they have tended to be.
             
             HOWEVER, WE ALSO BELIEVE:
             
             In the case of the felon who has incurred a debt that he is incapable of paying, then death (without abuse, condemnation or torture) is swifter, more sure and actually kinder to all concerned (yes, even the felon, for it is even cruel to deprive him or her of basic fundamental freedom). Such a person is much like a rabid dog --- one cannot hate it, but simply deal with the problem and be done with it. Forestalling only ends up hurting more people in the long run than does swift and sure action. If you love him/her,you may mourn, but there is always a price. It is, of course, preferable that we not lose too much by paying this price, but -- sometimes -- this is unavoidable (these things happen, that's what friends and kin are for).
             
             Those in jail who show a willingness to learn to "pay the price" should absolutely be encouraged, supported, and taught to help themselves out of the hole that Society has dug for them. The bottom line, in this case, is determination and will. Support for their determination must never wane … for you would be the one giving up, no them. Again, that's what family & friends are for… especially a family of choice.
             
             
          5. "Euthanasia is murder." "Suicide is murder."
             
             ">(Judgmental, aren't you?) Whose life is it, anyway? Euthanasia is like abortion here --- we believe that it is all a matter of choice (it is the key issue, after all). And there is no point in forcing a creature to suffer if they are already dying and if there is no hope for recovery (unless you get pleasure from such things, and I daresay that it'd be best if you tortured willing victims instead). Doing that is very cruel and selfish in a wasteful way.
             
             In all species, dignity is always preferable. We humans allow our animal friends to preserve theirs by granting them a swiftly and relatively painless end. Would that we were as gentle with our own kind.
             
             We believe that no creature should be forced to live, not even a human being. And as for suicide, we believe in the power of choice (whether abortion, suicide, euthanasia, etc.)
             
             
          6. "Euthanizing the handicapped is wrong."
             
             PLEASE NOTE: We do not advocate doing any such thing. Any individual who meaningfully contributes to the continued survival and benefit of the Pack has the "right to life" in direct proportion to the danger that person presents to the Pack's benefit and survival) --- if they themselves desire to do so. End of statement and end of subject.
             
             [Editor's,note: Please, if you have the chance, see the movie "Whose Life Is It, Anyway?"; it poses some rather thought-provoking questions on this subject). Again --choice is the key issue here. NEVER FORGET THAT.
             
             
          7. "Why do you wear (use) a weapon?" (This comment/question is usually said in reference to the undaggered knife sheath that most Temple members wear on their belts during Temple meetings and rituals).
             
             ">For several reasons:
             
             Symbolically: to show that I am physically and mentally ready and able to defend myself and my Pack (One might also explain at this point that weapons laws in our society are such that one can never tell if it's legal to wear the dagger along with the sheath). We also wear it as a symbol of our independence and of the piercing of ignorance by twin-edged knowledge. The twin-edged blade is especially symbolic of the BALANCE.
             
             Psychically: since my blades are dedicated to my service --- to ward off harm and to attract benefit to me. Also to use as a focus for power and as a channel for same.
             
             Pragmatically: for the same reason I wear clothing, to protect myself from the environment.
             
             We believe that you not only have the right to protect yourself, but the obligation as well. After all, if you don't, you simply make someone else do it for you.
             
             [Editor's note: Nature gives to some the tool themselves --- and to some, the capability to find or make these tools. Humans simply fit the latter category.]
             
             
          "ON FRIENDS & FOES"
          
          
          
          1. "You're always talking about the Pack & the Group. What about those outside the Group?" "
             
             >Within and out of the Group, you must always keep track of your friends and your "foes". THEN: Treat friends as they deserve, and never give a foe the means to do you harm.
             
             
          2. "How?"
             
             
             • Foes first:
               
               ">Always try to understand (or at the very least, discover) why your foes would do you harm, and then (based on that knowledge, your resources and the circumstances of the situation) make it difficult for them to do so.
               
               Think rationally --- never respond while in the heat of your emotions. Ask yourself immediately --- "can I do something effectively about this?" An instant response may not be in your (groups's) best interests, especially if you're not prepared. Never spend more than the (potential) loss is worth. Remember the old adage: "An ounce of prevention is (always) worth a pound of cure."
               
               In other words, make it more trouble than it's worth for foes to do you harm.
               
               
             • What about friends? As I receive, so shall I give.
               
               ">It's simple: Friends won't help you out if you never return their help. Never expect others to give if you never give back. Eventually, people will decide you aren't worth the effort.
               
               And it is just plain unreasonable to ask for more than a person can give --- just as it is nonsense to expect someone to conform to your expectations simply on your say-so (If you don't make it worth their while, how can you expect it, and how can you call yourself friend?). Never expect someone to do something they are not capable of doing or cannot do.
               
               But remember this too: A "part-time" friend (a sunny-day friend) is not your friend (even when they pretend to be), and will only risk for themselves --- not for you. You can't avoid these kinds of people -- they are everywhere -- so don't bother trying (no one is an island, you know). Just keep in mind that the "safety net" below (of friendship) is nothing but an illusion. While you certainly shouldn't hesitate to take advantage of their "generosity" (when it comes), keep in mind that nothing is ever for free. There is always a price.
               
             
             
          3. O.K. --- what about "neither friend nor foe"? What about professional people and strangers?
             
             ">Give as you're given.
             
             Maintain your integrity and make yourself the prototype of assertion with everyone. Give others cause to have faith in you; your words and deeds should reflect that. Do what you promise (and conversely, "if you can't bite, don't growl."). Stand behind yourself and your group (if you can't stand behind your group, you're in the wrong group).
             
             Always keep courtesy and consequences in mind when dealing with strangers. "As I receive, so shall I give. DO AS YOU BELIEVE WILL AID YOU AND YOURS."
             
             
          4. "Wait a minute. You worded the Golden Rule wrong."
             
             ">That wasn't the Golden Rule. The Golden Rule is a farcical brass-plated lead balloon, and it won't fly.
             
             Although you must occasionally risk doing something for (a possible) nothing, no one should continually spend resources when there is continually no return.
             
             For if you spend it all, you'll have nothing left in the face of a real crisis (and neither will anyone else who genuinely needs your help and who is depending on it. What will you tell them?
             
             And yet: THERE IS NOTHING WRONG IN RETURNING GOOD FOR GOOD RENDERED. It is a worthwhile effort to ensure further mutual benefit.
             
             
          5. "Then you're telling me that I should never risk doing something for nothing."
             
             ">Not precisely. If you never gamble, you never win. The modern world would not be where it is technologically if no one had ever taken a chance. Even animals take risks.
             
             BUT: Risk is not certainty. You must be rational and decide that this person or that goal is worth the risk.
             
             While a groupmember or friend is always deserving, an unknown commodity is just that: unknown.
             
             It is unfortunate that such decisions tend to be made in the heat of emotions run wild. And while you shouldn't deny your feelings, they shouldn't run roughshod over you either.
             
             Keep that in mind.
             
             
          6. "You keep calling 'the Way of the Wolf' Selfism. Isn't that just another word for "selfish"?
             
             ">NO --- NEVER.
             
             Selfism is a highly-evolved sense of self-interest. One of the reasons we call it "the Way of the Wolf" is because Canis lupus has a highly evolved sense of self and of community --- both as an individual and as a Pack.
             
             "Me first" is not "me only" or "me best" (which is being selfish). The Way of the Wolf and the Pack is centered on and unified by the assertion found in mutated self-interest (a.k.a. group-interest). And both self- and group-interest impels all animal life --- including humankind.
             
             Self-integrity, self-awareness, self-responsibility, self-possession, self-assertion, self-esteem --- all are parts of Selfism; none of these are selfish attributes.
             
             
          7. "What's the bottom line?"
             
             ">Give as you're given.
             
             Don't give foes the means to do you harm, and always make it more trouble than it's worth for them to do that.
             
             Make it worth their while for friends to help you out. Don't give till it hurts you (and them), and never, never take until you hurt others.
             
             And that's the bottom line.
             
             
          8. "OKAY: BUT WHY THE WOLF?"
             
             ">Good question. Why not some other creature? Why not the lion or lamb? A cat or even a chimpanzee?
             
             Most organizations use a symbol --- an image reporting, in pictorial form, their beliefs. Why the wolf? In a minimum manner to show what we are --- because "actions speak louder than words." When we are speaking of wolves, we are using the wolf as an ideal, and not about any one particular wolf After all, individual wolves can be good, bad or indifferent, just like people, and, of course, we are speaking of the attributes of the wolf as an example.
             
             So how do we walk the way of the wolf? By ignoring the trappings of morality --- of good or evil, by analyzing how things work, to benefit our Pack, our planet & ourselves, without prejudging or interpreting what might be called "sinful" or "wicked" according to any one opinion or belief or faith.
             
             A fairy tale is a story told to teach a lesson, but one which generally has little or no truth to it at all. And that's how the truth about the fairy tales about the wolf became someone else's "reality." But people are learning that many of the traits humans admire and respect in our four-footed canine friends are the very same that wolves exhibit: these are even the very same traits that our ancestors imitated in their desire to survive all the difficulties that the Living Earth threw at them.
             
             That's the reason we use the wolf as our symbol --- for we believe wolf society is but a reflection of human society's potential. We can teach ourselves how to work and act as a group, how to avoid slaughtering our environment, our friends, and our own lives.
             
             We can learn how to be aware of our surroundings again in a way that will continually amaze our jaded former selves, and how to live in such a way so that we no longer ignore the consequences of our own words and acts, and the words and acts of those around us.
             
             How will we walk the way of the wolf? One day at a time --- and there is certainly nothing wrong with that.
             
             Why the wolf? Given their strength and power of self and of community, the question must more correctly be: WHY NOT?
             
             Kipling spoke truer than he knew: "The strength of the wolf is the pack; the strength of the pack is the wolf" So say we all.
             
          
          MISCELLANEOUS "STUFF"
          
          "Why are you established as a church?"
          
          ">Since there is a certain benefit that results from the coordinated efforts of like-minded individuals who share the same goals and purposes, so the Temple seeks to provide and maintain a vehicle for that community, as well as the legal organizational structure which will share the legal, social and economic responsibilities and benefits of our group.
          
          In this way, we are exercising our own constitutional rights for the freedom to practice our faith as we interpret it to be. Pagan Deism is, after all, as valid a religion as any other. Any group will thrive when given support; our group will flourish permitted to exist in an atmosphere of growth and given some room to breathe.
          
          Also: It is the Way of the Wolf to be a group --- to work, live and Play the Game as a Pack, to celebrate the Cosmic Dance as a group --- Chaos, Order and the Balance together.
          
          (A quickie definition of Pagan Deism):
          
          Pagan Deism is a marriage between panentheism and deism --- a mystic balance between nature and reason.
          
          "THE WISE WOLF"
          
          "A wise wolf knows when to bite and when to lick. The one who walks the Way of the Wolf knows when an act helps and when it hurts, and then acts accordingly.
          
          "The wise wolf spoke, saying --- Honour goes to the pack, who acts in accordance with environment.
          
          "Balance is the key, always --- avoid too much or too little. It is not possible to "do unto others as you would have them do unto you" --- you may not expect others to act according to your own moral code & too many will take advantage if you do. You cannot "do as you are done to" --- murder does not make a murder right. INSTEAD --- DO WHAT YOU BELIEVE WILL AID YOU AND THOSE WHO MATTER TO YOU.
          
          "Aid others -- when it does not harm you (don't starve to feed others) -- and when you believe those you aid will/may be of aid to you & yours. You cannot work if dead; others cannot care for you when you are ill if you didn't or don't help them to have the resources to do just that.
          
          "You do not murder the murderer, nor cut off the arm of the one who cuts off the arm of another. THINK ALWAYS: What is the harm that has been done? How can it be eliminated or set aright? How do I prevent it from occurring again?
          
          "The one who slices off another's arm should then serve as that hand. A rabid dog cannot be hated, nor will punishment alter its behavior. You might love that dog as a mother might love her own child (most pet owners do), but that doesn't take away the rabies nor undo the damage done. So, for the safety of you and those who matter to you, it must die, not cruelly, for cruelty does not serve any purpose, but as quickly and as painlessly as possible. The wise ones know that thieves steal if the hand is cut off or not. That does not pay for the stolen goods.
          
          "Act in the knowledge that there are things which are and things which are not, and that -- between them -- all things have consequence. Others will treat you as you treat them.
          
          Therefore, only a fool destroys the trust of others through deceit, theft or other such misdeeds. How shall you have others help if you help them not? But do not throw pearls to swine, nor sow seeds in salt. Wasted acts help not, nor can they then be used to help where the help would have served a purpose (the wasted seed does not then grow in good soil; the eaten pearl does not then purchase food).
          
          "Pack before friends, friends before self, self before strangers --- but we also know that not all are kin by blood, and that if the self is not cared for, then others cannot be helped either."
          
          ANUBIS-WOLFKNIGHT (The Grail & The Spear)
          
          --- WHAT IS THE SECRET OF THE GRAIL?
          
          It is the womb of the Mother, the womb of Earth that gives life to all, and the great Cauldron of Death into which all must go. It is the blood, which is Life and the gods who die and are reborn eternally. It is wine, for celebration; it is the soul which comes forth to be reborn and goes in to be purified in the fires of their own deeds.
          
          --- WHOSE IS THE GRAIL?
          
          It is the Mother's --- the mother of all and the eater of all, the lifegiving suckling bitch and the snarling shewolf who slays. It is the guide of the dead --- the goddess of death & rebirth. The guardian of Life's and the demondog who prevents the dead from reliving by guarding the great Cauldron.
          
          --- OF WHAT IS THE GRAIL MADE?
          
          Of the bones of the Mother: Clay and iron and stone.
          
          --- WHAT IS THE SPEAR?
          
          It is the piercer of Life, giving and taking. It is the thruster-in of the womb (phallus) and the lightnings of Death. It is the wounder, the lamer --- protector and death-dealer both.
          
          It is the lance that wounds the "god" who dies --- it is the distaff of the Mother.
          
          -- WHOSE IS THE SPEAR?
          
          The brother who slays, the mother-wife's who betrays and loves, the killer who was lover, the usurper's tool. Man/Woman.
          
          -- WHO IS ANUBIS?
          
          Wolfknight,
          Dawnbringer, duskbringer --
          Hermes and Hecate,
          The wolfdog who slays and protects -- Killer most gentle --
          The savage dog Cerebrus --
          Hound of hell & loyal protector --The fury of vengeance --
          Lifegiving suckler.
          
          *** *** ***
          
          THE FOLLOWING ITEMS OF NOTE ARE SUPPORTIVE OF PAGAN DEISTIC PRINCIPLES, AND THEREFORE, ARE GIVEN HERE, AT THE END OF OUR JOURNEY.
          
          REMEMBER THAT, IN OUR FAITH, ALL IS GIVEN AS SUGGESTIONS ONLY, AND THAT NOTHING IS ESSENTIAL. IF ANOTHER PHRASE, MOVEMENT OR TOOL IS MORE POWERFUL, THEN USE IT.
          
          *** *** ***
          
          EXPANSION OF AWARENESS
          
          1. Lay on the grass under a tree. Look up and observe the play of light and shadow between the leaves and the sun. Close your eyes and listen to the tree as it moves with the wind; listen for the grass growing and the sway rhythm of the birds and the trees.
          
          2. Walk along a mountainside. Look for black pebbles (look for just white ones, too). Listen to the sounds of the wind, the flashing rustle of lizards darting from sun to shadow to sun. Look at the ground and see the flowers within the barrenness. Listen to the voices within the seeming silence.
          
          3. Sit at the seashore and listen to the rhythm of the waves on the water, and how the birds dance to the tide. Watch the play of sunlight on water and foam, the cool wetness and the heat as sun and water interplay on the land. Listen to the voices of the gulls and the sandpipers, learn what they say.
          
          Each of these may be done on the busiest day amid the largest crowd, for they may be done within the mind as well as physically. For the beginner, it is best to seek a quiet place and time, to be alone to learn to focus the mind and the eye on what is truly there. The adept will learn to do this despite the greatest distraction. These are not the only method to expand awareness and focus the mind, but they serve as models which may be used by any.
          
          GROUP ENERGY
          
          Wear loose, non-constricting, comfortable clothes. Sit in a circle, relax, closing your eyes, relaxing all muscles.
          
          Straighten, sitting erect. Begin breathing, listening to the rhythm of your lungs. Take long, slow, deep breaths. Listen to the rhythm of your blood. Hear your heartbeat.
          
          Now link hands, and listen to the rhythm of your blood and that of those whose hands you hold.
          
          The energy of the group should build, dancing within the circle, tingling, hot, cold, giving and taking. Now ground yourself to the Earth below, reach out with your thoughts to the air above and around you.
          
          Gradually, ease your hand's grasp of your neighbor, your breathing and focus your mind on the self within you. Relax, ending the connection.
          
          The group focus is conducted as with the energy building, each member focusing on the same subject -- a tree, the ocean, the Earth itself. It may be used a focus for healing, both en masse and under the direction of a leader.
          
          It is important that both entry and exit from a group be practiced and smooth, otherwise disruptive forces can negate the built-up energy and its focus. It is equally essential that each participant gradually relax into awareness, else the pent energy lacks focus and outlet, becoming destructive rather than constructive.
          
          RELAXATION (In a group or alone)
          
          Wear loose, comfortable clothes. Lying down on your back in a comfortable place. Close your eyes.
          
          Tense your toes, then relax them. Tense those in your other foot, then each foot, each calf, thigh, each and every part of you, to your scalp.
          
          Breathe slowly and deeply, tense and relax. Focus your thoughts on water, as if you floated in a still pond, on clouds, cushioned by air. Drift with wind and water, relaxing your thoughts.
          
          Now learn to float on the rarified air of a burning fire, and then within the embrace of the Earth (this might be harder as one can panic when buried within or poised above flames).
          
          To end, gradually focus (without tensing) on that which surrounds you; sit, then stand and shake yourself, to loosen any tautness that may yet remain.
          
          FOCUS
          
          Using relaxation and expansion of awareness techniques to relax, then sit comfortably.
          
          Think tree. Hear the wind whisper through leaves, the sunlight dancing in shadow.
          
          Think orange. The color, feel, texture of orange, the taste as you bite into one, the feel of juices as they trickle down your throat.
          
          Visualize geometric shapes, any object of any kind. This is the same as expansion of awareness, only here, you are drawing on mental concepts to narrow your thoughts on a thing whether it is before you or not.
          
          Use a candle, fire, crystal - focus your mind on the thing within the flame, the crystal, tuning out all distraction, then relax (Candle gazing is easier than the others for a beginner due to its slightly hypnotic dance).
          
          Using water, a burnished metal mirror, a rock. Visualize what is within, feeling the atoms and world within, and then relax.
          
          A focus-strengthening should last no more than a half hour and might last as little as 2 minutes or so.
          
          ON RITUALS
          
          BEGINNING THE CIRCLE (Consecrating the Circle)
          
          This can be used for group activities, symbolically shutting out all distractions and closing within the power of the group.
          
          As the group sits, the leader (or designated person) takes up the incense (burner). This is lit, and as the smoke begins to rise, s/he begins to walk clockwise (left to right). S/he says:
          
          "Air which is life, breath, whispered by the winds, Leaf stirring, cooling, sun shimmering hot. Wall us within this, welcome life giver."
          
          Within this circle, s/he then takes ashes or dirt (salt is acceptable). Walking counterclockwise (right to left), making a circle within the first circle. S/he says:
          
          "Earth which is life, form, green-growing bearer, Solid and substance, soft in absorbance.
          Wall us within this, welcome life giver."
          
          Again clockwise, s/he then takes a candle, lights it, and marks another circle within the second, saying:
          
          "Fire the dancer, tool-maker's servant, there and yet not there, transforming its touch. Wall us within this, welcome life giver."
          
          Finally, counterclockwise, s/he takes a clean, earthen bowl, pours clear water into it. S/he then marks a final inner circle of water, saying:
          "Water first mother, wrapped well within us. Sustainer, shifting, moon-driven driver. Wall us within this, welcome life giver."
          
          “four elements, let us draw to us that which aids and banish that which hinders us."
          
          
          The group leader makes salt water (a small bit), takes up the cup and sprinkles it on the perimeter, saying something like: "As salt preserves and destroys, as water gives life and drowns it, so may those who come in knowledge and accord be blessed and those who come meaning ill be driven away. Enter ye who will." Be sure to keep in mind the dual nature of all things in your phraseology.
          
          ALL (Reply): "So shall we do." Then (in turn if a small group), each says: "I, (name), have come here freely, knowing and willing, protected and protecting, here to join this Circle."
          
          Thereafter, let none leave but with good reason until the project's end.
          
          All those intending to participate now stand (if outside the circle on chairs, now enter the circle), saying: "So shall we do."
          
          Then the group leader takes a second candle and lights it from the first, saying: "Fire & Air, East & West, guard and witness these rites." Then, taking the bowl, says: "Earth & Water, North & South, witness thee and guard us." Standing in the center of the circle, arms uplifted as if to invite the Power downward and inward, s/he says: "From the four directions, from
          BREAKING THE CIRCLE (At ritual's end)
          
          the Group leader takes the group's ritual weapon and holds it high in both hands, saying:
          
          "Air and Earth, Fire and Water, our witness and guard. North & South, East and West, our guard and witness.
          "As each to each, so each to its province go, going unto each our own paths."
          
          Then put out the candle with the water. Now someone from within the circle shall step outside of it, dragging his or her foot across the inscribed line(s), ritually breaking it.
          
          Then all turn and depart.
          
          GENERAL NOTES
          
          It should be noted that air, earth, fire and water are symbolic only, but it is useful in creating and focusing the attention of the group on the subject at hand, and in reminding each member that a unified focus is asked for. The beneficial aspects are noted for the"summoning" of each element (and the energies) because it is intended to be focus to the benefit of the group. Salt water is duality itself, since it brings life (most people believe that life comes from the ocean), preserves (salt preserves food), and yet can be harmful (the drinking of salt water, and water can drown life).
          
          Use of a particular incense (rose, pine, etc.), candle (color or type), soil or salt or what sort of water (salty or fresh) is a individual choice and should be tailored to the task at hand, as additional symbols of what is being aimed for.
          
          ON HEALING AND HELP
          
          This is not a "faith healing," per se, but is to be used as an aid to strengthen one who is ill or needs the aid of others. A circle is made, using floral incense and a green or brown candle.
          
          "Green are the grasslands, leaves in the treetops, Green-blue the great sea, whose waters gave life. Growing the green ground, thriving and thrusting Life to life growing, strength to strength joining, The lifeforce of all, to one lends its strength."
          
          For strength during crisis or threat:
          
          "Stone strengthen our walls, wood shelter our heads Water refresh us, wind bring us clear skies. Four footed hearthwolves, watchers protect us. Friend pass unhindered, foe by fangtooth banned."
          
          A prayer/chant for balance:
          
          "Strength and gentleness, power and compassion,
          Beauty and wisdom, honor and flexibility
          
          Light and darkness, chaos and order,
          
          Fire and ice, wind and water,
          
          All are one, twin dancers of the same nature."
          
          CONSECRATING A TOOL (Binding a tool to its user)
          
          Unlike Wicca, it is believed that most tools do not have to be cleaned (except to actually cleanse it and not ritually) in order to use them.
          
          Sometimes, however, it is useful to bind a tool to its user in a symbolic means. Normally, continual use of any tool by one person will charge it with its user's psychic power in some fashion or other. The more the personal and mental use, the more the user imprints the tool with their own personal psychic field.
          
          Consecration symbolically binds the tool to its user; thereafter, only that person should use that tool. The most common "tool" is a knife or sword, but any personal tool may be so bound (a blacksmith's anvil, a seamstress' needle). Since the tool belongs to its user after binding, it is wise to bind only such tools as will be used only by one individual.
          
          Use alone will make a tool "pick up" its user's field, to do more should be done with care (as binding limits a tool's usefulness by limiting it to one user, it should be done only with very personal items).
          
          Have the tool inscribed with a personal insignia --- a symbol of who and what you are, or a name (or both). Then clean it carefully with salty water, which acts as a mild antiseptic and thus symbolizes purification (if water cannot be used, alcohol, chlorine or another antiseptic can).
          
          Touch the tool to your forehead (between the eyes), your lips, then your chest (symbolizes heart, mind & soul). Raise it to the sky, then down at the ground, finally holding it midway, parallel to the ground (if too heavy or bulky, hold or touch it with one hand, and let your free hand symbolize the tool), saying something like: "Above, below, the balance between."
          
          The tool should then be wrapped or decorated with an item (cord, medallion, anything) which you have worn for at least three days, or which is readily recognizable as belonging to you (perhaps it should also have your insignia on it). Thereafter, no one else should use this item.
          
          RE-PURIFYING AN ITEM
          
          As said before, it is not generally necessary to purify an item before using it (unless it is actually dirty, and then using actual cleaning techniques should suffice, so long as one is Dedicated to one's Purpose already).
          
          On the other hand, ritual tools should be thoroughly cleaned before using them, and if appropriate, a ritual Purification might be useful.
          
          Consecrate your circle.
          
          Have within this circle some water, some earth (salt), and some smoking incense (air), along with the item(s) to be purified.
          
          Holding (each) item over/above the four elements, saying something like: "As fire purifies, water cleanses, earth covers and air blows away as the wind, so may forces harmful to (this item) and myself be done away with."
          
          Then touch it briefly to your forehead, your lips and your chest, and then hold it before you, saying (something like): "Thou hast a nature, formed of energy and pattern, chaos and order.
          
          "Hold thy nature truly, and -- as I care for thee -- do thou serve me fairly and well."
          
          Thereafter, care for the item(s) and let none abuse it. Any item(s) may also be purified using this method, or one like it.
          
          PROTECTION OF AN ABODE
          
          The major protection of a home should be physical. The psychic protection comes from the self-assurance of its dweller(s). However, one can put additional psychic power into protection by placing symbols and performing symbolic acts which can aid in focusing the dweller's self-protecting field.
          
          For a temporary dwelling, one may use the circle-forming technique. For a dwelling which will be lived in for some time, a "door" is required. For a permanent home, more elaborate techniques may be used. Nothing is required.
          
          For temporary/nonpermanent home: At all gates, place a protective symbol. The following have the most symbolic power (to most people): a dog, a mirror, a sun symbol, an eye (as in eye of Ra).
          
          From gate to gate, along the perimeter, mark the circle with symbols of air, earth, fire, & water (ideally, rose incense - the rose is a thorn bush and therefore symbolizes an impenetrable barrier; obsidian or flint chips - used as tools and therefore symbolic of protection and defense; fire in the form of a torch, symbol of watchfulness, and salt water as barrier symbols. Substitution of hurricane lamps and desert or barren sand will work equally well for some).
          
          In a permanent home: The use of geese, rooster, sun symbols, mirror (preferably metal ones), eye symbols and dog symbols on the walls, corner posts and gate posts can be used, depending on how elaborate one wishes to be (painting these on with salt water or color). Planting of roses or other thorn bushes is also highly symbolic. The pine is a symbol of (eternal) life and therefore a luck-bringer (as is the apple and peach tree). The oak is often a symbol of the world, as is the ash tree.
          
          A large aggregation of symbols does not increase protection, and can actually draw unwanted attention.
          
          Doorknockers are excellent symbols that fit well in a house. Then follow with circle ceremony (after the physical marking).
          
          If a symbolic guardian is used, an additional ritual can be performed to abode protection. The rite should focus on the particular guardian chosen. The below is for a symbolic dogwolf.
          
          "Fleet-footed fourfoot, sharp-eared hunter,
          Here is your home den, the hunter's home range.
          Sharp-fanged and swift one, be sharp-eyed at night.
          Guard from all danger, protect from all harm."
          
          A SONG OF THE SEASONS
          
          [THIS IS A SONG (CHANT) WHICH CAN BE USED FOR MANY REASONS, NOT THE LEAST OF WHICH IS TO RITUALLY RAISE POWER. EACH SET OF SEASONAL VERSES SHOULD PROBABLY BE USED AT THE APPROPRIATE HOLYDAY]
          
          WE ARE THE HUNTERS
          THIS IS OUR PACK
          OUR CIRCLE IS SHELTER
          WHEN PROBLEMS ATTACK.
          
          TROUBLE IS COMING
          BUT WE STAND TOGETHER
          LAUGHING AT DANGER,
          DISEASE OR BAD WEATHER.
          
          (SPRING HOLIDAY) VERSE I
          NEW LIFE IS BEGINNING
          BLUE EYED BROWN YOUNG ONES
          TWO-FOOTS & FOUR-FOOTS
          BOTH LEARN TO HAVE FUN.
          
          (SPRING HOLIDAY) VERSE II
          YOUTHFUL EXCITEMENT
          WE QUICKEN OUR PACE
          WE CATCH SIGHT OF QUARRY
          LIKE WHIRLWINDS WE RACE.
          
          (SUMMER SOLSTICE) VERSE I
          SIT BENEATH COOL SHADE
          BRING IN THE SHOWERS
          GROWING & DANCING
          HERE COME THE FLOWERS.
          
          (SUMMER SOLSTICE) VERSE II
          WE WHO WERE YOUTHFUL
          NOW ARE MATURING
          FACING OUR PROBLEMS
          OUR TROUBLES WE'RE BURNING.
          
          (FALL HOLIDAY) VERSE I
          GATHER THE BOUNTY
          HERE COMES THE SNOW
          TAKE TIME FOR PLAYING
          BUT DON'T BE SO SLOW
          
          (FALL HOLIDAY) VERSE II
          WE'RE FINISHING HUNTING
          WE'RE READY TO REST --
          COME, FEAST FROM OUR SOWING
          AND CELEBRATE HARVEST.
          
          (WINTER HOLIDAY) VERSE I
          SOLSTICE OF POWER
          WHEN WINTER ATTACKS
          WE RIDE TO THE NEW YEAR
          AND NEVER LOOK BACK.
          
          (WINTER HOLIDAY) VERSE II
          WAITING FOR SPRINGTIME
          WE FACE THE STORM --
          NOW SNOW FLURRIES CLOTHE US
          YET STILL WE ARE WARM.
          
          WE KNOW THE METHOD –
          BY SERVING OUR KIN,
          CHASING AWAY FOES –
          WELCOME OUR FRIENDS
          
          LIVING'S A CHALLENGE
          TO FANG, FLESH & BONE
          LIFE IS MUCH BETTER
          WITH FRIENDS, NOT ALONE.
          
          WE AS A PACK GROUP
          HAVE COME HERE TODAY
          TO BE WITH EACH OTHER
          ON THIS HOLY DAY.
          
          WE STAND UNITED
          STRONG AS A TOWER
          WE ARE THE PACK
          WE HAVE THE POWER. (REPEAT)
          
          BANISHING (FROM THE TEMPLE)
          
          This is not to be taken lightly. It is always preferable to attempt reconciliation and consensus instead of driving out someone who, in better circumstances, might be an asset to the Group.
          
          But in the case of someone who either entered the Packgroup in deception, or someone who continually and consistently acts or speaks against the Pack, or who thinks of him or herself first before the Group, there might be no other way.
          
          Therefore, in the presence of the one to be banished, take salt and toss it beyond the door hearth. Do the same with bread and then water. Then turn to the one to be banished:
          
          Say: "Neither salt nor bread nor water nor shelter will you find here. Not salt nor bread nor water nor shelter shall any here give you. No aid shall be given, no aid shall be asked of thee. You are not of us. Begone."
          
          The banished individual must then be driven, forcibly if necessary, beyond the property line. All that is the property of that person must be given to him or her; it cannot, however much the cost, be retained in the custody of the group.
          
          All ties are to be broken. The person may be spoken of, but only as one speaks of any outsider who is very probably antithetical to the group.
          
          No banishment should ever occur without long, careful consideration and the use of every reasonable effort to avoid it. Such is best done by the highest authority of the group, as the one who banishes risks the same fate if the banishment is proven to be for false reasons or to the group's greater detriment than if the individual had stayed.
          
          *** *** ***
          
          MORE ON THE WOLF
          
          [Paraphrased from: "Of Wolves & Men" by Barry Lopez]
          
          "Even as adults, wolves play tag with each other or romp with the pups, running about a clearing or on a snowbank with a playful "rocking-horse" gait. They scare each other by pouncing on sleeping wolves and by jumping in front of one another from hiding places. They bring things to each other, especially bits of food. They prance and parade around with bones or sticks in their mouth.
          
          "They will play 'catch' with themselves and with others; they play 'keep away' and 'tug'o'war' with bits of hide and sticks and bone.
          
          "Once a wolf was observed tossing a caribou hide into the air, catching it and then repeating the feat again and again ..."
          
          "…We watched three wolves slip over the flanks on a hill like rafts dipping over ripples in a river. Sunlight shattered on a pond ahead of them --- spotting some pintail ducks there, the wolves quickly flattened out in the blueberries and heather. They squirmed slowly towards the water. At a distance of maybe fifty feet, they popped in the air like corks and charged the ducks. The pintails exploded in a brilliant confusion of pounding wings, bounding wolves and sheets of sunburst water. Breast feathers from their chests hung almost motionless in midair. They got away. The three wolves cavorted in the pond, lapped some water, and were gone.
          
          “It had all been a game.”
          
          To those who question a Pagan deist minister being multi-denominational:
          
          A final thought: It often comes to me, from certain individuals, that I should be steadfast in my faith, and decline to counsel or celebrate in the fashion of other religions, philosophies or others systems of belief (especially those which are agnostic, humanist or atheistic in nature). To remain multi-denominational is to (somehow) blasphemous; it is obvious that purity of tenet is equated as being the same as purity of purpose.
          
          But to do that would be contrary to my own religion. My faith has always celebrated both diversity & unity, the first a part of Chaos (which is one facet of the Balance) and the other which is part of Order, the so-called "opposite" side of Balance. In truth, the Temple will always celebrate the right of all religions to be equally honored, for -- like the Muslims -- we believe that there are many paths to the summit of the mountain, but that there is only one mountain (the GodForce), and only one way ... up to the pinnacle, never down (and away from the mountain).
          
          And if you are strong in your faith, and if it inspires you to do good deeds, then I tell you that I cannot denigrate or invalidate your beliefs, nor in your right to celebrate or worship as is usual among your own.
          
          That is my purpose as SoulSinger.
          
          *** *** ***
          
          [The following is a hardcopy of the home page of www.geocities.com/Athens/Troy/3071/. This is our first step as a church or temple; we hope it's the right one]
          
          "WELCOME TO A WORLD GONE MAD…”
          
          …where apathy & violence run rampant, while environmental suicide is all too common. We all know too much of hunger, poverty, and racial hatred (and we should not have to), and we have all experienced the same emotional brow-beating and selfish, uncaring attitudes from people we (hesitate to) call our neighbors. And what of unity? Responsibility? What of honour?
          
          We all do what we please, when we please to do it, regardless of the consequences, even when these affect those we say we care about.
          
          The religious "pushers" tease us with guarantees that, if we go their way, all mysteries will be unraveled, and we will be wrapped in the loving arms of the Ultimate Being, who loves us like a father (or mother), for the universe is a warm & friendly place.
          
          But where ARE all these answers? Will all really be revealed once we leave this existence, or will there only be more questions, not answers?
          
          We are Lykos Temple; We Walk the Way of the Wolf. And in doing so, we follow principles which, for lack of a better word, I have named Pagan Deism. Pagan Deism is the nontheistic belief in a god-power which pervades, binds, animates, surrounds, arrests & directs all things. The word Pagan Deism comes from the marriage of Deism (the belief in "god" as a guiding principle, not as deity) & panentheism (which is a belief that "god is in everything" rather than pantheism, which means "god IS everything.").
          
          This power that we recognize is NOT what others would call "God." We do not believe in a "heavenly king" (or queen or Mother) who saves people from their sins --- no more than we believe in sin itself Pagan Deism is also NOT Buddhism, a reworking of any sort of Christian mythology, & is neither Hindu philosophy nor a worship of the "old gods".
          We believe, instead, that this "GodForce" is the very fabric of the universe itself --- all its physical and natural laws, the life and nonlife within and without it. Life and death, change and stasis, creates it and is created by it in return.
          
          Because of our experience(s) with the spirits & forces that move and arrest our universe, we now hold what might be considered some rather metaphysical attitudes as well: such as the acknowledgement of these energies, and the knowledge that, by focusing our willpower, we can create change and conquer the obstacles to achieving our life's goals -- if we only know how.
          
          Confusing? Perhaps rightly so; this is a confusing concept to many, even those who say they know obscure and curious lore (for it seems a hodge-podge of many varying ideas). It has been said that God notes each sparrow that falls, and indeed "He" does; for "God" cannot avoid noticing the sparrow, for the sparrow IS "God," as is the predator that stalks it.
          
          Pagan Deism believes that "all paths are essentially the same (all else is mere semantics)." We are interested in communicating with people of other faiths, as well as searching for those who are interested in knowing more. Although, at this moment, the Temple only exists in the fertile minds and fervant hearts of a very few, it is, I believe, an idea whose time has come.
          
          *** *** ***
          
          Again, remember that nothing is written in stone. Never do something "just because" somebody else told you to. Research carefully, and determine what symbols or ideas are powerful for what you wish to accomplish.
          
          The following is from the introductory leaflet which is passed out in person.
          
          DO YOU BELIEVE?
          
          TELL ME Is "GOD" there because you believe, or was it more like the "Emperor's New Clothes?" Was it peer pressure? Your parental inheritance? Did you maybe marry into your faith? And how do you know what you believe? Why? Who told you this? Do you feel it? Really? Take a moment to consider, because if you actually know that God is where others have told you to look, then you should stop reading immediately (for we have no wish to come between a person and their beliefs). All we are trying to discover is this: how did you arrive at your decision? Was it a decision at all? Who helped you --- you or someone else? Was it revelation or research? Your choice, an enforced choice or no choice at all?
          
          OK, time's up! Do you have the answer? You do? Then set everything aside for a moment (Trust me, you might need it later).
          
          PLEASE: ERASE ALL PREVIOUS CONCEPTS FROM YOUR MIND. I WANT TO SHARE THIS WITH YOU, BUT YOU MUST PRETEND THAT THIS IS ALL BRAND-NEW.
          
          WHAT IF
          
          What if I were to tell you that there is a way of thinking about "God" that you have never been told about? You may already feel this in your heart, and it's not REALLY brand-new, but they don't teach this in school at all.
          
          What I want to share with you are beliefs which are universally known, even by those who say they know nothing of it. And although it's been called other things by many people, WE KNOW WHO WE ARE. Pagan Deism is the name we've given ourselves to explain how we believe. You ask, did we make it all up (no, for deep in your heart, you've heard it before. I've struck a spark within you, haven't I)? Okay then, are we playing at religion? Maybe: but isn't "play" the essence of ritual? OBSERVE: and learn.
          
          For just one moment, think about "God" as raw energy (something like electricity, but ever so much more so). Just imagine being able to tap into this force .... just imagine that you don't need to "believe in God," all you need do is discover the laws that cause this power to work for you, and "GO THOU & DO LIKEWISE."
          
          It's simple, really. If you want things to go a certain way, employ this method and MAKE IT HAPPEN. Observe natural, cosmic laws and apply what you know. This simple technique works because energy this powerful doesn't make any judgments or moral decisions --- it just flows from Point A to Point B and does its job, according to the environment and the situation.
          
          Trying to speak or reason with this kind of power, or appealing to it emotionally (what others have called prayer or worship) is a non sequitur (well, you can do it if you want, but why?). After all, you need only understand how it works, and then live your life according to the very same natural laws that this same power "lives" by. How? You are part and parcel of this awesome force (for it is the self-same force that "powers" your very soul, and the souls of all else); you'll know when the time comes. Yet although you may find that it's much easier in a way, you may find that it's harder, too, because you must reason it out and use your head.
          
          You must know.
          
          Now imagine we're not "playing" at religion, and that that's what "God" is --- a principle and power that pervades, surrounds and flows through and between all things: that we are ALL interconnected by this power, so that we are all a part of it. And that EVERYTHING is a part of this awesome energy .... so that we are ALL part of this Force we've named "God." Nothing more, but certainly NOTHING LESS.
          
          Can you handle that? Yes? No? Just checking, because for some strange reason (probably because we ALL take things so personally), the concept that (apparently) "God" doesn't "care" seems much more disturbing than "God Hates Me" or even "God Is Dead" (which CERTAINLY disturbs the heck out of me).
          
          And yet, the transformation of "God," from a bearded, white-haired old man (or even a mother-of-all-living fertile goddess) into an all-pervading force and power, and putting the responsibility for word & deed into the lap of the doer (YOU) is at the very heart of our faith. Many Pagan Deists often say that "God" is like the watchMaker who, having made the watch, allows it to run on its own, without any further need for intervention.
          
          WE ARE LykosTemple. THE GOD WE BELIEVE IN IS ALL THIS AND MORE. This is NOT a new concept --- just one that's been buried and kept obscure for a long time. WHY? We're not really sure why; but we DO know that believing this way puts all this responsibility into YOUR hands. We ALSO know that it makes us ALL spiritual adults, not "children" under the thumb of a great "God-Parent" who might "ground" us or even "spank" us (?) if we step out of line. In separating "God" from us, we have come to fear it and have made it something it is not. We've made "God" a bully-boy tyrant, when it's plain (at least to us) that this Power is no more vindictive than a bolt of lightning, an earthquake or even a tidal wave.
          
          In fact, this is the simplest of all religions (the rules are SO uncomplicated), but you may find that it's not easy to live a faith that is based on natural, Cosmic laws and nothing more.
          
          After all, think a moment: no divine salvation to rescue us from ourselves (we can "save" ourselves, thank you), no scapegoats to blame (we are adults and can take responsibility for our own actions), no Heavenly Plan that intimately involves us (Our "heavenly blueprint" is simple and natural; there's no "hidden agenda").
          
          Sounds irreligious? Only if you separate your faith from your life (we don't. We KNOW that the "deity" comes from within us). Neither can we believe that "God" is some kind of "monster" that needs to make us all miserable until we obey all "HIS" rules all the time. But does this sound godless? Only if you insist that "God" is something or someone outside of you that persists in watching over you ... which is, I suppose, a strange sort of arrogance in itself We have come to accept there's no NEED to believe that we a people are helpless and hopeless (How can we be --- IF GODHEAD IS ALREADY WITHIN US).
          
          We believe that "God" is a mirror of humankind's greatest potential, & that is why we fail to find god-connection --- because we keep searching for completion outside ourselves instead of finding it within, where it's always been after all.
          
          You ARE searching for something, aren't you? Of course you are, or you wouldn't still be reading this. But CAN you believe in something like this? Of course you can (just like you can believe in yourself, right?) Okay then, can you worship this? Well, that's like worshipping electricity again, and you can if it helps, but you might find that learning how things work, without moralizing, without any judgements, brings more fulfillment with less hassle. After all, isn't it better when you know how it works?
          
          "Oh -- is THAT all there is to it," you say. Well, no not quite. Some have said, "Do what thou wilt, an' it harm none." Others say simply, "Think globally; act locally." But why not instead say, "Always speak and act with the knowledge of what the consequences bring." In other words, behave as though everything matters.
          
          BECAUSE IT DOES. This is a constant, continual effort --- one that never ceases.
          
          In many ways, we resemble some natural, shamanic faiths in that we observe and participate in natural laws and celebrate their diversity. There is nothing wrong with sacred celebration; we should do it every DAY.
          
          And, yes, you heard it right: we Walk the Way of the Wolf. "But what does that mean?" Simply that the wolf is an icon of assertion, of survival, of attunement with our world, of a Hunter (and of knowledge and understanding, too). Many of the social habits of the wolf are very human-like in nature (or is it that human social habits are instead wolf-like in nature? Who can know?)
          
          Most of us know that early Man (sic) often mimicked their animal cousins. In doing so, they could see for themselves that wolves were in tune with their surroundings --- and so humans did what ANY smart animal would do: the wolf became our Teacher and Friend. Remember wolves came to humankind, to serve and love us of their own free will and become "Dog."
          
          Other shamanic faiths today have come to understand the wolf; it is often used as an spiritual totem or guide. People have ALL discovered that wolves are really very special & spiritual beings, in their own way. So we say: why NOT use the wolf? Others do!
          
          We believe that you cannot be "converted" to our brand of religion; you must instead come to that moment on your own. We believe, you see, in simply making ourselves available to those of you who are curious enough to seek us out. We, therefore, do not believe in proselytizing nor in "spiritual blackmail." You must want to know more (and we hope that you do).
          
          We are not afraid of questions; we welcome them and even the criticism that must surely come with them. And if you are interested in learning more, or even: "where do I sign up," well, then THAT is why we are here, too.
          
          That is why the Temple exists: as a sort of "extended family," a place to stay, to learn, a place of counsel and comfort; we are a bastion within against the world of strangers from without. We want to serve our community. And we WILL, too.
          
          If your search for God leads you to here, in this place, we will welcome you gladly. If not, REMEMBER ALWAYS THAT THERE ARE THINGS WHICH ARE, AND THINGS WHICH ARE NOT, AND THAT (BETWEEN THEM) ALL THINGS HAVE CONSEQUENCE.
          
          EXCERPTS FROM:
          "WALKING THE WAY OF THE WOLF"
          
          The following are from the full curriculum of a course in non-aggressive self-assertion which includes concepts of courtesy & consequences --- as well as a quasi-spiritual attitude. Why are these selections important to an understanding of Pagan Deism?
          
          Mostly because we call our way of life & faith "Walking the Way of the Wolf." The wolf is an assertive, though non-aggressive creature, who actively pursues his goals, instead of passively waiting for them to seek him out. We believe that we need to stand up for ourselves and what we believe in, without surrender, and without using aggressive methods.
          
          This is the secular part of Pagan Deism, part of our daily life, and can be followed by anyone --- even those who have decided NOT to follow this particular faith. It teaches the meaning of the word "consequences" as it applies to what we believe. It teaches us to have honor and respect (courtesy); it teaches us to recognize the interconnectedness of all things (by example).
          
          These particular parts of the course are unique in themselves, as they describe important tenets of this Path. Wolves are kind and gentle to one another, but fierce and savage to outsiders who mean harm to their packmates and (their immediate) environment. To do so in human society, one must remember courtesy & consequences --and always consider such before acting. As for WHY (which includes Methods & Motivations), this is a theory on why "selfishness" (selfism) is a valid way of behavior. The reasons we believe so will be pretty obvious upon reading these.
          
          --Kasimir Hunter, SoulSinger
          
          ON COURTESY
          
          No one appreciates being treated like dirt (This is a fact of life). No one likes being embarrassed. Not considering what your acts or words can do to others can make some very big enemies out of people who might have been friends. Quite simply, courtesy is an honest attempt to avoid hurting others thoughtlessly.
          
          Respect other people's rights if you wish them to respect yours. As you attempt to be courteous, expect them to return courtesy (And if they don't, do something about it).
          But: lack of courtesy does not free you from being courteous. Don't take it personally, even when it's meant that way. Be reasonable; don't lower yourself to their level. Listen honestly, a martyr's stance or child's naivete will reduce your value in other people's eyes.
          
          No one wants to hear your life story (but they'd like to tell you theirs). Listen to what you are asked; answer what is asked you. Don't give a lot of background as to why or how you got the answer, or anything irrelevant.
          
          If they want more, they will ask. Answer the question.
          
          Appreciate a gift, whether of hospitality or otherwise, for the value it has in the giver's eyes (The gift of a goose is greater from a peasant than from a king).
          
          Never demean a gift honestly given. A gift is that which is given with the recipient in mind --- something given simply to conform to tradition or obligations is no true gift.
          
          A gift obligates the receiver for more than its value. This is particularly true when the giver accepts a risk in the giving.
          
          The gift of a loan (property or whatever) is particularly deserving of special care. Treat another's possession as good or better than the owner would and handle them at least as they would. Damaged goods, after all, result in no further loans. A loan always requires a repayment of obligation for the giving.
          
          The gift of hospitality requires that you impose yourself as little as (or less than) necessary. Make a supreme effort to follow house rules. If you cannot even make the effort, then take care not to accept the gift or their hospitality. You will be far better off.
          
          Know the rules of the game and use your head. You will disappoint yourself (and others) less often that way.
          
          ON CONSEQUENCES
          
          Remember: there are consequences to every action or inaction, everything said or unsaid.
          
          The better you consider the consequences, the better thought-out your acts. Also remember: Few people consider the consequences of their words & deeds and generally resent it when you point them out (both the consequences they haven't considered and the fact that they haven't considered them).
          
          You are your actions; this is the best way to describe how consequences affect you. Your self-integrity and self-possession are most important --- you must mean what you say and follow through on your promise. Therefore, make no promise lightly.
          
          No one is perfect; everyone makes mistakes --- and it is no "sin" to do so. As you err, so shall others. Keep this in mind. So you must pay the piper without complaint. Never expect someone to pay for you (It is your error and you reap the consequences). If someone else does, then you not only owe for the consequences paid for, but you also owe for the extreme generosity in itself (See Courtesy).
          
          "I'm sorry" solves nothing; it changes no consequences (the dish is still broken). Never dwell on an error, but never forget it. Keep this in mind so that you don't repeat the error.
          
          Even socially, saying "sorry" does very little. Try to avoid saying it. As far as others are concerned, remember that it is quite natural to "pass the buck", and otherwise to delegate authority (Most people prefer for someone else to take the blame or responsibility for their acts ). Learn how to say "no". Instead of "sorry" try saying: "Excuse me" or "Pardon me". Say "I apologize", and mean it.
          
          ON RECEIVING CRITICISM
          
          When receiving criticism, don't weep, wail, engage in name-calling or tear-filled anguishing. Remember: no one really wants to share in your misery. This will only work with someone who really cares about you (Otherwise, "they" will just respond: "so what?" Sometimes, though, this also works in a society/social order which makes individuals feel responsible for the happiness or unhappiness of their neighbors). It is poor tactics, for it actually puts you at the mercy of your opponents (even if they meant well).
          
          Don't argue about it. Discussion is one thing, but getting violent about it is quite another. If your opponent has his or her mind made up, either agree or walk away from the situation. Anything you say to such a person will not change his mind. And arguing can, at its best, only make an antagonistic situation worse by involving emotional discharge.
          
          If you can, attempt to make an argument into a discussion. Try saying something like: "That's interesting; why do you believe that?" That's called putting your (potential) opponent on the defensive -- making them stop & think (something people don't often do) This will consistently take the air out of their tires. Try it --- it works more often than you might think.
          
          A quiet listener can quell most arguments. When the other person calms down, a useful discussion can follow, not before. Two heated heads are not better than one. Taking it personally is very normal, but it solves nothing. If you can't manage it, then either agree or take a hike. You're getting nowhere fast.
          
          
          Be straight-forward and direct. Don't dwell on little things; the wound will fester. Agree at least on the possibility that "they" might be right. Discuss calmly the things that might be wrong (with you or whatever) and what could or might be done. If the ways suggested to you are unreasonable, don't get violent or even aggressive about it, simply say so. Then do ask for authentic help.
          
          ON WHY
          
          Self-interest, sometimes also called greed, impels all animal life, including humankind. To eat, a hunter kills. To do what is necessary for survival, humans create societies.
          
          Laws (morals and mores) are created for the benefit of society. The individual gives up certain rights for the security of the group, which then provides greater protection and an ease in the effort to survive. Traffic lights, speed limits, shoplifting laws, etc. all exist to protect the group from the individual (not the other way around).
          
          Each and every culture has different laws; different acts are, of course, considered "good" or "bad". A "good" act is one that benefits the group. A "bad" (or "evil") act is one that harms the group. In either case, it is irrelevant whether the act actually is beneficial or harmful. What matters is what the group thinks it does - -- after all, a harmless nitwit considered to be an "evil" sorcerer will be treated the same as if he were an evil sorcerer.
          
          People are raised in the matrix of their culture. They are taught the code of behavior (morals/mores) of their society and are expected (rather instinctively) to follow it. No one is perfect, though, and infractions (will) always occur. Although the importance of the infraction largely depends on Society's view, each individual must also decide (on their own) what they themselves truly believe to be correct or incorrect behavior. They must, in other words, decide how much of their own independence they are willing to yield in return for membership in their society. This is the kind of choice that most people lose by default, for they accept, without consideration, the world in which they live.
          
          HUMANS ARE SOCIAL ANIMALS (yes, I said "animals". Are we not?) That bears repeating, for it forms the crux of human behavior. HUMANS ARE SOCIAL ANIMALS --- and want what every other social creature wants (even if their definition of what pleases them differs from other social creatures -- if it does).
          
          All social groups (i.e., Society) use self-interest as the primary means of incentive (Perform a "wrong" act and a form of punishment follows. Perform a "correct" act and reward follows). Social pressures can replace actual pain/pleasure or food/starvation types of reward/punishments (Praise replaces food; ostracism replaces pain). So, like other animals, humans can be conditioned (yes, you read right: conditioned) to the point where they will react correctly (as defined by the conditioning society) without an actual incentive. In animal behavioral science, this is called the Pavlovian Response and has been well-documented. In people, we call it altruism.
          
          Any person may employ this knowledge to good effect or to bad effect --- depending on that individual's grasp and understanding of the following principles:
          
          
          • In general, a social order will follow the rules (morals, etc.) of their own making;
            
            
          • No matter how "perfect" a code of behavior is, ten-percent of the population will always be greatly outof-line (criminals & felons), and twenty-percent will be mildly out-of-line (delinquents & eccentrics).
            
            
          • All people have varied incentives to which they will respond better than others. Therefore, societies have equally varied incentives to any one situation.
            
            
          • Behavior of individuals can be modified using reward/ punishment as used by that individual's own social order, but only so long as the behavior (not the incentive) is not inconsistent with the individual's own nature (You can't expect an artist to be a plumber. All you will get is a neurotic artist who is trying to be a plumber, if you even get that).
            
            
          • Reward always works better than punishment, and it works even better if the reward is one normally difficult to obtain. The reward must be compatible with the act or the law of diminishing returns will then apply. Physical rewards work better than a purely verbal (symbolic) one. Like all animals, humans are grounded in the physical world (Even a blue ribbon is better than nothing).
            
            Punishment can only be applied to a degree consistent with your status and power (that's another reason why reward works better).
            
            Physical incentives (barter, etc.) tend to work better for short-term acts requiring actual investment of time, energy or funds on the actor's part. Be straight-forward in your approach when offering these.
            
            Social incentives (praise, recognition, etc.) tend to work better for long-term acts or those acts requiring little or no actual investment. Be more subtle in approach when offering these.
            
            ON MOTIVATIONS
            
            The basic motivation for all creatures is selfishness. Selfishness takes two forms: self-interest, or those actions undertaken for the sake of the individual; group-interest, or those actions undertaken of a group with which acting individual identifies.
            
            Both forms of selfishness are instinctual. Self-interest is found in the individual animal feeding itself, etc. and guarantees the individual's survival. Group-interest, found in parental concern & care, herd/family defense, pack/herd cooperation, etc. are all actions which ensure the survival of the species. When in conflict, the general domination is self-interest among lower animals, graduating to domination of group-interest among the higher animals. This is due to the fact that higher animals (mammals, birds, some reptiles and rare fishes) cannot survive entirely on their own. This is especially true of mammals & birds. Consequently, for the species to have appeared at all necessitated the development of a "mutated self-interest", wherein the identified reason for action spread beyond the individual to include first the young and then the group. IN NO ANIMAL HAS SELF-INTEREST BECOME A NON-EXISTENT THING. Without self-interest, the animal would no longer feed or protect itself and would rapidly become extinct through the death of all individual members of the species.
            
            In most cases, self-interest and group-interest are mutually compatible. Where they conflict, the individual may have a stronger urge to self-interest or to group-interest according to instincts, instilled behavior (also known as conditioned/"altruistic") and circumstance(s). When self-interest and group-interest conflict, the results are unpredictable, unless the precise psychology and circumstances are known.
            
            Humans, being higher animals (in fact, considering themselves the most highly-evolved animal on Earth), share this dual impulse. All actions of human beings can be related to the motivation of selfishness, whether they act because they believe the action will benefit themselves, or because they believe it will benefit the group(s) to which they belong. Also, it is not necessary for the act to be beneficial, merely for the acting individual to believe it so. Unlike animals that appear to act almost entirely on instinct, the human animal learns most of its behavior, and therefore depends almost as much on learning as on experience in its decisions and acts thereof (Even instinctual animals can act according to belief rather than actuality as with cuckoos, which are raised by birds not their parents because they are thought to be their own young).
            
            Further, it is not necessary for the human animal to have a physical return of the act. Because human beings are highly social and therefore have a need for group acceptance "programmed" into it, mere psychological benefits rate as high as the physical ones. It is inevitable that, being a social animal, the individual will belong to one or more groups.
            
            Because the socialization process is longer in humans than in other animals, group identification may even alter many times in an individual's lifetime, a factor which permits more flexibility than with other animals. So long as an individual identifies with a (any) group, however, the instinct of group-interest will have some effect.
            
            Consequently, an individual may act in ways which bring the acting individual no clear benefit and which may not be expected to bring benefit to the individual (acting in thought of benefit without actuality thereof discussed above like the cuckoos), simply because these acts (are thought to) benefit the group(s). In most cases, the influence of praise (socialization urge) adds a self-interest incentive (ego-stroke) to that of group incentives.
            
            Only in parental care is group-interest clearly dominant over self-interest, for with humans, a great deal self-sacrifice is called for on the part of the parent in the raising of children. However, nature has provided for this, as with many mammals (and the higher the mammal, or the more complex the child-raising, the more apparent this is), by instilling a secondary instinct to aid that of group-interest. This is part of the socialization process or urge and is called bonding, wherein the parent identifies with the child so much so as to almost subconsciously consider it a possession (note the manner of speaking about any group-member is highly possessive: "my" lover, "my" friend, "my" family, "my" people....). This, coupled with socialization and the group-interest urge generally suffice for the parent(s) to care for the child. Where this fails to occur, the child is generally mistreated (abused), ignored, killed or simply abandoned (or encouraged to abandon the family).
            
            In the wild, such acts would result in the death of the child, and consequently of the genetic flaw which the child may have inherited (namely an insufficient instinct of group-interest and/or socialization and a consequently an oversufficient instinct of self-interest) .
            
            In human society today, because of other people possessing group-interest (parental) urges, a merely abandoned child may be raised by a surrogate parent, and only when the gene flaw deteriorates to murder is it eliminated. In modern times, the advent of sterilization, anti-pregnancy pills, and abortions do just that --- eliminate those whose group-interest urges are insufficient to allow for children to be raised. However, the continuing avoidance of these things by the ignorant who then continue to abandon their children (physically and socially) points out that this behavior remains prevalent among normal human beings.
            
            Whereas primitive group-living humans provided for abandoned children (whenever possible), this is becoming not as prevalent and it remains to be seen if it has any effect on human evolution. A likely long-range result might be a stronger group-interest urges among humans in general, as those with weak drives fail to produce offspring. But the short-range result has been the increase of those with weak group-interest urges (and, consequently, strong self-interest urges) among the less-educated and less-intelligent and the decreasing of weak-driven intellectuals, and the educated members of society. If this does continue, then the less-intelligent and less-educated will -- naturally -- increase theirproportions among the gene-pool. What the long-range effect of this might possibly have is unknown, as survival of the stupid (fortunately) depends on many other things besides a high rate of reproduction.
            
            *** *** ***
            
            [What follows is the ends-piece of the curriculum for the entire course of "Non-Aggressive Self-Assertion" (Walk the Way of the Wolf). It is truly meant as an explanation, not sermon --- to illustrate the motivations and goals of this class.]
            
            "This is the Path of they who Walk the Way of the Wolf. A true Pagan Deist walks this way --- as a spiritual warrior does.
            
            "Why? Because this is the first step towards the Path we seek: we believe the wolf archetype to be a valid & valuable means to the goal of achieving the Balance (which we hold as the most ultimate manifestation of the GodForce as we know & experience it).
            "Wolf society is but a mirror of human society's potential. If we would all walk in this way, things would be radically different from the sad reality of today.
            
            "We have all become a society of self-gratifying individuals who give little or no thought of how they affect other people. The thoughts, feelings or considerations of other people are ignored, as these individualists go about their own "needs" regardless of anything but themselves.
            
            "On the surface, this might sound all well and good, except that the larger picture is ignored. Like it or not: we ALL live in a society that has people in it. The universe is getting larger in one way (more room) and yet smaller, too (we are getting more people in it, and run into one another more often). We must therefore remember that somebody, somewhere, has a bigger baseball bat than we do, and less scruples than we do.
            
            "The solution is, then, to learn how to survive WITHOUT using that bat, but instead to benefit our own, and watch out for those who are not of our own circle. That's the way the wolf walks, and theirs is a most well-behaved society, for all the fact that each is quite capable of causing instant death (without the use of tools). Our culture could be different, too, if only we would do it. Where is the wrong in that?" So if you ever find yourself asking "what's the bottom line? How do I act in walking this Path," this is the answer to it all:
            
            Give as you're given.
            
            Selfism is a highly-evolved sense of self-interest. One of the reasons we call it "the Way of the Wolf" is because Canis lupus lupus has a highly evolved sense of self and of community --- both as an individual and as a Pack.
            
            "Me first" is not "me only" or "me best" (which is being selfish). The Way of the Wolf and the Pack is centered on and unified by the assertion found in mutated self-interest (a.k.a. group-interest). And both self- and group-interest impels all animal life --- including humankind.
            
            Self-integrity, self-awareness, self-responsibility, self-possession, self-assertion, self-esteem --- all are parts of Selfism; none of these are selfish attributes.
            
            Always keep courtesy and consequences in the foremost of your mind when dealing with strangers. "As I receive, so shall I give." Yet recognize coercion; never yield without consent.
            
            "DO AS YOU BELIEVE WILL AID YOU AND YOURS."
            
            And that's the bottom line.
            

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            Email: [email protected]

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