Why I'm not a Historical Druid
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- čas přidán 26. 01. 2019
- Just some thoughts that I wanted to address clearly about the way I practice Druidry. Clearly, if you are into a more reconstructionist path of druidry, that's awesome. I'm only talking about why my path isn't one of historical accuracy.
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******Want to be pen pals? Send me a letter at: Danni Lang, PO BOX 271, Argyle WI 53504 *****
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First off: Kelzyare, I'll be keeping you and your little one in my thoughts. I can never imagine the kind of experience you're going through.
Now for the long part!
While I do call myself a druid, I will never call myself a reconstructionist. I'm black. People will say that color is not important or 'we don't see color,' but the fact of the matter is that - as a black person - my ancestors who may have practiced witchcraft or paganism never have had the exposure to druidry, so I can't comfortably place my feet in their history or their culture. I feel that - if I try - I would be appropriating that.
My druidry is based on my love and respect of nature as well as my duties as a motherly figure within the furry community.
... I suppose it's very different from anyone else's. And sometimes I fear that I'm a poor excuse for a druid because I have no real connection to its roots. Reconstructionists ranting and raving about it don't make it any easier either.
But I'm rambling. At the end of the day, you do you. If you wanna follow the history of druidry to a T or bumble your way through it like I do doesn't matter as long as we all have our roots in the ground.
I particularly love the way you ended your comment. "If you wanna follow the history of druidry to a T or bumble your way through it like I do doesn't matter as long as we all have our roots in the ground." This is exactly what I think will serve our Druid community the best.
I also want to give you all the respect for being willing to speak about what Druidry means to you as a black person. Inclusion of all modern Druids is important I think. You should NEVER feel like a poor excuse for a druid because you don't have any "real" (as you put it) connection to its roots. Your roots are in your connection to nature (as you clearly know!). :D
@@DanniEsotericMoment oh thank you! There aren't a lot of people that talk about inclusion of different types of people in the pagan and witch community as a whole. If I'm able to put my two cents in, I will.
And I'm trying to get those silly thoughts of not having 'real roots' out of my head. It's not easy. But I try lol
Hi brother, here in Brazil many white people have African or Afro-Brazilian religion. So what matters is how you are feeling. If you are in contact with the deities in a healthy way and makes sense to you. A big and brotherly hug. .`.
Wolf Mama There’s a modern connection if not an ancient one between the OBOD and Africa. The Band Afro Celt Sound System is lead by a Druid who has studied the “Bardic,” Tradition of a tribe in Africa. Also the soon to Be new Chosen Chief has worked extensively with African Shamans to learn their approach to healing. Druidry should be something that brings us together, no matter our ancestry, and it certainly is beautiful when it does. /|\
Danni I have watched a lot of your videos, and I have to say that you walk your path with pride and that is wonderful! Let those who want to comment nonconstructive things slide on by as you keep working for your path and your community. To Kelzyare I send strength and love. I cannot imagine what you are dealing with but know there is a community here to support you as best we can.
Thank you kindly! The comments don't bother me all the time. It's mostly that I was concerned I wasn't being clear about what my path was and why I walk a modern path. I don't want to mislead anyone. It seemed addressing the topic in a video would be the best way to kickstart the conversation in a single place rather than spread out over all my videos.
I hope you are having a wonderful week!
Thank you x
One of the best responses I've heard in regards to the question of authenticity vs validity within modern Druidry came from a discussion between John Michael Greer and Philip Carr- Gomm on Druidcast, episode 68. It's one of my favorite episodes. Definitely worth checking out if any of you haven't already :)
The difference between being authentic and valid, right? That was a great conversation between them.
I did listen to that episode and I agree. I should have listed that in the description for others to find. I'm glad you are sharing that now. Def a good way of framing the conversation and from such respected Druid voices.
Spot on Danni. Please keep on your own path as you are a true Druid and very inspiring too. Blessings to your friends sick child.
To Kelz Yare, I’ve just spent the most amazing time with my eldest sister. We shared a wonderful year, We visited more often than we had in the past 10 years, told stories about when we were little, shared jokes. Looked at pictures and mementos, shared Facebook and Instagram post. And a whole lot of other things. It was a special time for us. I hope you have just as a special time with your youngest child. You are not alone, I know Danni has endured the pain of losing one she loved far too soon. It was her words about her sister that helped me prepare for the loss of mine. She passed peacefully last week, with her daughter by her bed and her siblings nearby. Compassion and Love from a fellow traveler on the Druid Path.
Jay I am very sorry for your recent loss. Thank you for your words of kindness. We are doing our best to make the most of the time we do have with our son. Thank you. X
Jay, I'm so sorry that I missed this message and that your sister passed away!!!!!!!!!!!! *hug* I'm so glad that you had this last year with her. Talk more in a letter, I hope?
@@DanniEsotericMoment I've had a letter going for weeks! Hope to get it in the mail soon.
That's what I love about you, Dani.
Kelz--if I have that right--blessings, light, love, and understandings come to you...in Peace.
Danni, you are amazing!
I'm typing from Brazil, and here we have these "gatekeepers of the faith" too. People who are extremely unnecessary and boring. But, I think the most important is to do our best. Hugs from Brazil ♥
Your chief strength is truly your ability to explain things in an unavoidably cogent way.
Sending love and support to the family of Kelzyare
Thank you x
From what I have learned about Druidry they were polyglots, with a working knowledge of healing, law and magic/ceremony. They served their communities as experts, teachers and arbitrators. Anyone with a mastery of multiple fields of study is a druid in that sense. Since the druids of Britain were effectively wiped out by the Romans on the island of Anglesea 2000 years ago, there is very little information surviving that describes them, the chronicles we have were written by the conquering Romans (the winner gets to write the historical accounts for posterity!) ....So, what I want to know is, how do these naysayers, claiming you (or anyone) is an 'authentic' druid, get their information? The history of the druids is lost...we are left to devise a method without the guidance of history, only the guidance of spirit, and perhaps, the spirits of those who came before us long ago if they are so inclined to share with us what was hidden long ago.
What I find most interesting, is that we have waited until the change of the age, (to Aquarius) to revive these ancient magics, like it took 2000 years, and a cyclic shift to finally throw off the yoke of Roman oppression and step out into the light of day once again.
Kelzare, I will be praying for you and your family, with prayers of healing, hope and support. May the god (or goddess) of your heart encircle you with peace and love.
Thanks Danni for another great video on a great topic. I always appreciate the openness and intellectual honesty you bring to your videos. It's a rare thing these days.
You know I hadn't really considered this topic in relation to the change in the age and astrology before. . . hmmm making me think now. I wonder if some of the tension comes from that inherent pull and twist that we feel in so many areas as we shit fully into Aquarius. I'm going to have to go and ruminate on this a bit (thanks!). I thank you for your kind words about my videos, as well!
Try looking up Ben Mcbrady the last druid
How can we be true to the past when we have the technology,the medical advances,the chance that we will not starve through the winter today?.
We actually have no idea how they lived,The Druidry we follow goes back to William Stukely and the revivalists of the 1700s and the likes of Lolo Miorganuhg.We take inspiration from texts but the great thing about Druidry is because of the lack of Dogma then it can evolve and change as society grows and changes.
Yes, exactly. Our world is so different. Our Druidry needs to serve this world not just the ancient world.
Late to this video, sorry!
I enjoy the perspective of OBOD and AODA because they acknowledge the history, but also the fact that we live in very different times than ancient Druids. Our day to day lives, experiences, environment, etc. are so different and it's virtually impossible to see through the eyes and live the same experiences as ancient people because of that.
I love learning about history and understanding the world they lived in, but I think the future of not only Druidry, but also Paganism, Occultism, etc. require us to acknowledge that we live in different times with different needs and how we can fit these practices to benefit us now and how we can develop for future generations. If we're too busy living only in the past, we miss out on the opportunity to experience the moment we live now and innovations that can come from that.
The way you practice Druidry is no less valid than any other way. There are also several Druid orders that have their own focuses and training programs. I co-run a Druid grove in RI and aim to take the pieces of lore about the Gods, culture and fire festivals that are known and make them relevant for modern times, but still try to maintain as much integrity to the source material as I can. There are many ways in our world today that Druidry is relevant. Thank you for your excellent videos!
Oh my gosh thank you so much for the shoutout. It was totally unexpected and completely took me by suprise! Thank you and blessings xx
Healing winds...
I hope seeing everyone's love and support helped a little! This is what community is for
I love how candid you are!! You've raised so many valid points, respect the past, look to the future!!
Thank you! Candid and clear were exactly what I was hoping to be :)
That’s amazing that you have helped so much with your community in those ways. That seems very druid to me!
Thanks I needed to hear this.
I’ve been pagan for over 15yrs but only joined OBOD in July last yr.
As a mature student of Archaeology and Anthropology and as an anarchist, I struggled with the history in some of the early Gwers. I found it overly romantic and even edging toward a colonialist romanticism of other cultures.
I find that Druidry is too often connected with other aspects of British history. It’s not impossible but not conclusive.
It’s also how I feel about my deity (Danu and Cernunnos); I relate to them in my life and my experiences with them. Whilst I want to know the mythology, it won’t dictate my experiences with them.
I really resonate with your statement.
Thanks so much for sharing xxx
Thank you for sharing your experience too! I think it's a good point to talk about how and who is telling our history as well.
Your views and approach to this make a lot of sense.
Rock on. 👍
Thanks! That is helpful to hear.
Thank you for sharing your unique views Danni. It is inspiring me to learn more! I have always had a connection to nature, but have no label for my path currently. Much love to Kelzyare.
Thank you for watching! It's always nice to have someone stop by the grove, whether Druid or not :D
Thank you x
One of the main reasons I'm drawn to druidry is because it is a living, breathing spirituality that can and should change with the times, but remain at its core the same. If spirituality is too rigid and doesn't evolve, it will fade as it can, and usually does, clash with much of modernity. In the end, druidry is whatever druids collectively decide. Some choose historical accuracy to be highly important, others choose the spirit of the path, and others may choose another thing to hold of utmost importance to their druid path. We're all free to carve our own path, and much of what I've been learning of druidry is that it is about your own journey. Not necessarily only the murky historical path.
Yep, I think we are on the same page there!
I believe that the "conflicts" between a Modern Druid or Re-constructionist Druid are certainly understandable. However, I also believe that the importance of supplying historical information in order to educate and expand is where the focus should be. This isn't (or shouldn't be) a "hate all" movement. Druids or Pagans in general really need to step up our game when it comes to support, cross-table understanding, and compassion. In the end, we are all human and our end goals are the same. We just want to be happy and live life in the best way we can. The paths we take to get to the end goal aren't so important. The importance is in the shared experiences, joy, and ability to live this life at its best. Can I get an amen, mote it be, or hoo-ha up in here?
I don't know if I would frame it as a conflict but rather a tension. One that brings a lot to Druidry as a movement. I just wanted to be absolutely clear on where I, personally, am coming from. So that when a re-constructionist is wanting to engage in other conversations here on this channel it isn't coming from a fundamental misunderstanding on the goal. I so agree that the paths we take to get to living a happy and fulfilled life isn't as important as the way we support each other traveling.
@@DanniEsotericMoment It was just a simple agreement. I believe you were crystal clear. In not so educated terms, it sucks hard that haters gonna hate. ;)
For Kelzyare, I ask Spirit to convey strength to you, peace to you, and the resources and community that you need to get you through. For your child, comfort, stability, and memorable moments of joy.
Danni, what bliss is there in seeking a path that is so inflexible as to not support one's unique growth on many levels. Or a path expressed in some archaic way that does not support living in the context of today's world? Knowing history is extremely important and helps us to root ourselves and our beliefs, but repeating history is not growth or necessarily transformative. For example, in the conservatory, I studied 16th Century Counterpoint and it helped me get into the mindset of musical composers of that era. Composing music using pure 16th Century Counterpoint constructs in today's context doesn't support the development of my skills. But I do draw from the knowledge from what I learned to create new music.
Do what speaks to you, enriches your spirit, serves Nature and the land in which you live and transforms you to be ready for what's next. No person or no thing ever remains the same. Some of what we do now that no longer contributes must be released so there's room for the opportunities that reveal themselves along our journey.
Andrew Chumbley once said: "If somebody knocks and the Gods answer, who am I to question the integrity of their path?" Every one of us has the freedom to create the right path -- for ourselves!
Many Blessings! -- Zane
Thank you x
I’d have to agree with Wayne Silverman regarding historical facts. From what I’ve read, ancient Druids never wrote anything down, so much if its history is lost, so do any of us know exactly how they practiced? Regarding the reconstructionists, I don’t know much about them yet. However, they sound a bit legalistic to me. For me personally, that is not what Druidry is about. Legalism is not spiritual, and I’m following the Druid path to become a deeper, more passionate, and loving human being. Danni, please keep speaking your truth. There will always be people who try to challenge you through social media. Following your heart and staying true to self is what’s most important. 💗
It's not a competition. Clarity is good. We should be able to be respectful of all the various expressions of Druidism that have existed, exist now and in the future unless there is something absolutely horridly gone wrong such as a turn for the...example...DRUIDS 'FOR' FRACKING! or some such thing ridiculous thing.
Being clear, having integrity, evolving a Druidic lifestyle and recognizing what is already there that is by nature...Druid...all of it's important. Druidism is ever 'evolving'. History is a foundation that is essential to Duidry wherever it takes us as individuals or as community. Not a prison, an inspiration. Learning from the past and creating the future in the present.
The classical Druids were leaders in their communities, served their communities, and leaders and they worked on their own personal growth and development.
I believe in the Spirit of the Law approach to Druidism. Always studying and sharing, practicing and creating. Ever growing and flowering. Having universal aspects that strengthen our community as a whole and respecting the variations that are a reflection of the Awen and the nature of the universe, is something I feel is unwise to compromised.
I'm not sure by the first part of your comment if you interrupted the video as me being competitive, but I agree that we are after clarity. Druidry has the space for all sorts of inspirations and focus. I just want to be more pointed about where my personal inspiration and direction lay.
First, to Kelz Yare: my sympathy and my thoughts for you and your family.
To Danni: very well said. I've seen those kinds of comments under your videos sometimes, and…smh. You deal with this issue very, very graciously.
Thanks! I try to assume the best and help generate real conversation. I like a good debate, too. But it seemed like it was popping up more and more. I thought it might be good to get it out in the open for us all to chat about!
I myself am also not a Historical Druid since my ethnicity is of Slavic & German ethnicity. I consider what some would call a Reformed Druid in toddler age (toddler in the term that I know nothing compared to many who have walked the similar/same Path for decades). However, even in the sense of being a Historical Druid, who was the first actual Druid? If there was one, how was he/she able to assume the mantle and give out the calling to other like minded people? My point being, don't be discouraged. I'm sure there's many people walking in the same shoes you walk in (myself as well).
I agree with you that history is important. What druids of old once considered a viable way of life can't be considered the same in today's society. Our values and ways of communication has changed. We don't suffer through hardships the same. History is to be taken as a lesson as to improve the future. Obviously, people making comments to discredit your path are still trying to find theirs. Also, with any religion, there's always going to be "purist".
*sigh* "purist" folks just exhaust me, but I suppose you are right. Thank you so much for your comment. I couldn't agree more that history is a lesson for our futures!
Can i just say that I love your hair!
Aw you are so kind, thank you!
To me, it doesn't make sense to try to be a reconstructionist, due to the paucity of reliable sources on druidry. While I understand the urge to have an "authentic" ancient druidic experience (however one defines it), I think this goal is at odds with actually /practicing/ the spiritual discipline. Back when I began delving into paganism several years ago, this urge got in the way of truly connecting with and developing my spirituality; I got stuck and gave up on it for a while. Eventually, it all came back around and now, with a clearer and more solid focus on my values and intentions, I know that I want to synthesize my own spiritual path based on what we know of druidry, what I've already internalized in terms of religion and spirituality and my own life experiences, and to apply that perspective to what is happening now, in the world in which I currently live.
This was put so beautifully. I really like the way you say, " I know that I want to synthesize my own spiritual path based on what we know of druidry, what I've already internalized in terms of religion and spirituality and my own life experiences, and to apply that perspective to what is happening now, in the world in which I currently live." This is so very much what I think Druidry can bring to the world. The wisdom and perspective to both find connection and understanding of what you as an individual needs in your spiritual path.
I feel like if I were to try and recreate the past just based on artifacts and historical knowledge, I would be making a hollow shell of what truly existed. Even spiritual paths that have survived since the ancient past in an unbroken chain of tradition can be very lifeless and empty when people are just going through the motions, so it'd only be that much worse for something less documented to be carried out by the books. People today still have the capability to find the spirit of truth themselves, thankfully, and to me being pagan just means placing tremendous value on the past as being a primary place to learn truths from.
Spot on. Value our past but build on it so that we have a living, breathing spirituality of today.
One thing I always say is that the old religions grew with the times. Stone tools were used first before they found and used iron. Our ancestors adapted. So many people seem to think that the way they were when these old religions "died out" (in a manner of speaking) is how they always were.
I honestly think that if paganism had continued and not been halted by Christianity, today's druidry would still look pretty similar to how it is now, in my opinion, but perhaps more open and not looked down on. We'd have more stories of heroes and epic tales through the ages up until now.
Humanity adapts and so do our religions and beliefs. Staying rigid because you have this romanticised view is detrimental, learn from the past but adapt. That, to me, is what my ancestors want.
Thanks for addressing this! I sorta lean towards the historical side of things, but I definitely don't think it's the only way. I was also wondering if you've read Kevan Manwaring's The Bardic Handbook? I'm curious about your thoughts regarding it, especially after your experiences with OBOD courses.
I have not read it. I'll add it to my TBR!
@@DanniEsotericMoment Cool! :)
In general, I don't like people who try to dictate my life path or my magick.
Stay true to yourself.
Besides we don’t have much written history of original Druids.
And kind of on topic, I think the likelihood of the ancient Druids wearing bright white robes was about as likely as Jesus actually being white.
To assert that any “reconstruction,” is somehow of more value is nonsense, since we have extremely little primary material. Reconstruction has value but it is “educated” (or not) guesswork at best. Furthermore historic context is important but only an idiot would slavishly adhere to that only in a modern society. Do we still practice human sacrifice and wage war on the neighbours over a barrel full of grain?
I hope that the family with a terminally ill child can find as much peace and healing as possible.
Succinctly put! I'm not trying to dis any reconstructionist but I do want to be clear that my path is a modern one. The lack of primary material is such a good point.
Danni Lang I generally try to be diplomatic as well but I truly am baffled as to how any objective human could assert superiority using such subjective justification. I have a deep passion for history, and I love the idea of reconstruction when possible, but that isn’t the only way, nor should it be. There are hundreds of years separating us from what little source material we have. How can we fill in the blanks if not with intuition, and by adding our own modern context?
@@Magius61 I'm right there with you!
Thank you x
@@Magius61 I second that (or is it third?)
What?!? Who are these people? These comments are rubbing me the wrong way too...
Have you ever been to a pagan site where European Celtic pagan druids are present? I've been a British pagan for many years and would consider it quite a boast to say I was skilled in druidry. The things you feel were important to druids are pagan beliefs not necessarily exclusively druid. Meet some real druids, you're going to notice the difference.
Thanks for the comment but I'm going to have to disagree.
@@DanniEsotericMoment ok disagree, do we have a reason. Still not sure how you can make claims of being a druid. I'm sure living in a non European country would allow you to make these claims. Why choose the highest order of the pagan faith? Its alike to saying I'm Christian therefore I'm a priest.
www.druidry.org
@@DanniEsotericMoment you did a course. Druidry isn't done in the classroom, obviously I require a more authentic advisor. My mistake sorry
I find Druidry very interesting. From all of the historical information I’ve read- Druids were of the highest order- acting as priests, judges and healers. But most of the information initially collected was from Caesar and Poseidonius. History is usually written by the victors. All religions however, evolve over time as they look toward the future. Christianity has branched out and evolved time and time again- as have most other faiths. Communities should support each other in harmony not tear each other down. I love your videos and am happy for your journey. Blessed be.
You are not a druid at all.