Over the years, and through endless personal discrimination, I have come to realize that the vast majority of the public has a huge misconception about what paganism is. Many people hear the term and shudder. Others go so far as to hide their children and run the other way. Fortunately, though, most of the people in our society are starting to become much more open-minded, and want to understand what has never been properly explained to them. For these people, I offer the following.

The term Paganism in today's world simply means "not Christian". Again, some of you shudder. Let me explain further. Those of you who think that Pagans are Satanists raise your hand. Any hands up now? I'm sure there are. Well, I can assure you that Paganism and Satanism are in no way related, much less one in the same. I'm sure a lot of you may disagree with this next statement, but hear me out. Satanism is a belief that has its roots planted in Christianity. Now before any feathers get ruffled, I simply mean that a person has to believe in a heaven and hell, and they must believe in Satan before they can devote themselves to him. The idea of the devil comes from the concepts of the Bible and Christianity. There are many Pagan religions, but most of them that I am aware of DO NOT even incorporate Satan into their belief systems. It also should be mentioned here that I am NOT comparing Christianity to Satanism. I am simply saying that the idea of Satan came from Christianity.

Now you're probably wondering just what Paganism is, if it is not Satanism or Christianity. Well, there are many different Pagan religions out there such as Wicca (which, incidently is the fastest growing religion in America). But, one does not have to belong to any set religion to be Pagan. It generally just means that you are not Christian or Jewish. Let me clarify further. Most Pagans are very spiritual people. They are connected to the Earth in a way that many who do not have this connection can not comprehend. Most Pagans believe in a higher power. But, just as many of the world's religions see this Higher Power with many different faces, so do many Pagans. One "God", many faces. I ask all of you, does it really matter what concept of a Higher Power we each individually have? Or, shouldn't it be good enough that people are living their lives to the best of their abilities, especially if they are co-existing with all that is around them rather than conquering everything they are given . I am not looking to convert anyone. I have tremendous respect for Christianity. All I am asking in return is the same respect. Pagans are peaceful, loving spiritual people that, for the most part, have a strong connection with our Creator. Most Pagans have experienced Christianity at some point in their lives, and have chosen to look for a deeper understanding instead of just showing up for church on Sunday and agreeing with everything they are told. This fulfills some people, but there are those that seek a closer, deeper, and different connection to the Universe. These people, for the most part, are Pagans. There is no reason to hide your children anymore. I hope that you understand at least a little better. Different does not mean bad.

Love and Light to all, Melanie Baker Copyright 1998

About the Author: Melanie has been interested in the metaphysical since she was a small child. Over the years, she studied a variety of topics in her on-going quest for knowledge. In 1996, she created a Metaphysical Television Show named Reality Check as a way to open a few minds and sharing new possibilities with her audience while spending much needed time concentrating on her own spirituality. She produced and co-hosted the show for five years. During that time, Melanie opened a Holistic and Metaphysical Resource Center and store named Kindred Spirits. Through both Reality Check and Kindred Spirits, Melanie met many interesting and inspiring people who had a great deal of impact in nudging her along on her own spiritual path. Melanie also communicates with her Spirit Guides, and is a Reiki I Practitioner. Melanie believes her path is to heal, teach, and write as a way to help others along their spiritual paths. She does all of this while keeping a very open mind and respecting the beliefs of others.

Melanie is also a Parent Station Moderator and Community Leader for The Metaphysical and New Age Forum.