I walked away from the well-trodden path of Western Christianity to embrace the ancient wisdom of Druidry. This blog is a chronicle of that transformative journey. It is a place where I explore the depths of my soul, connect with the natural world, and seek a new direction in life. Here, you will find musings on spirituality, nature, and the magic that resides within us all. Join me as I delve into the mysteries of the world, one midnight at a time.
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In a world that often feels disconnected from nature and spirit, many are turning to ancient spiritual paths for guidance. Druidry, a vibrant and evolving tradition rooted in the wisdom of the Celtic peoples, offers a way of living in harmony with the earth, creativity, and deep personal growth. But what exactly is Druidry? And how can its teachings enrich our everyday lives?
What is Druidry?
Druidry is a spiritual and philosophical path inspired by the ancient Druids—priests, poets, healers, and wisdom-keepers of the Celtic world. While much of their original knowledge was lost due to Roman conquest and Christianization, modern Druidry revives and reimagines their teachings in ways that resonate today.
Unlike dogmatic religions, Druidry is flexible, encouraging personal experience and connection with nature as the greatest teachers. It embraces reverence for the earth (often seen as sacred), the cultivation of wisdom, and the pursuit of creativity and justice.
Here in Parkersburg, as the morning light paints the Ohio River, it's easy to feel a connection to the natural world. But few individuals have embodied that connection with the fervent passion and eloquent voice of John Muir. A naturalist, writer, philosopher, and early advocate for wilderness preservation, Muir’s spirit is woven into the very fabric of our National Parks. His life wasn’t just about observing nature; it was a profound, almost spiritual love affair with the wild.
Born in Scotland and later immigrating to the United States, Muir's early life held little hint of the legendary path he would forge. It was a near-fatal industrial accident that served as a turning point, prompting him to famously declare, "John Muir, manufacturer of wagon wheels and reaper sections, is dead; John Muir, explorer of mountains and glaciers, is born!"
And explore he did. From a thousand-mile walk to Florida, chronicled in his captivating book, to his deep immersion in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Muir’s feet trod landscapes that would forever shape his destiny and, ultimately, the destiny of America’s natural treasures.
His writings weren't dry scientific observations; they were vibrant testaments to the intrinsic beauty and spiritual power of the wilderness. He didn't just see trees; he saw "living cathedrals." He didn't just see mountains; he felt their ancient wisdom etched in stone and ice. His words painted vivid pictures, transporting readers to the towering sequoias, the glacial valleys of Yosemite, and the rugged peaks of the Pacific Northwest.
"The mountains are calling and I must go."
The concept of Awen is a fundamental element in modern Druidry and Celtic spirituality. It represents a divine inspiration or creative spirit that flows through all things, fueling artistic expression, wisdom, and spiritual understanding. Rooted in ancient Welsh traditions and widely embraced by contemporary Druids, Awen encapsulates a profound connection between humanity and the natural world, the divine, and the realms of creativity and knowledge.
The term "Awen" originates from the Welsh language, where it literally means "inspiration" or "muse." Its earliest recorded usage appears in the medieval Welsh literature of the 6th century, notably in the works of the bards and poets. The concept of Awen is closely tied to the figure of the bard in Celtic society—those who were the keepers of history, lore, and cultural wisdom through their poetry and music.
In the heart of the forest, there exists a guardian of time, a silent sentinel that embodies the essence of strength and resilience—the white oak tree. Standing tall amidst a tapestry of greenery, the white oak emanates a sense of ancient wisdom and quiet power, captivating all who wander into its presence.
The white oak tree is not merely a botanical marvel; it is a living monument to history. With a lifespan spanning centuries, each gnarled branch and weathered trunk bears witness to the passage of time. From the whispers of the wind to the songs of birds perched upon its sturdy limbs, the white oak tells tales of days gone by, weaving together the stories of generations past.
I found this video today before I started my morning meditation and found it very helpful. The relaxing tones of the handpan combined with a heavenly voice moved through me and help me focus on some really bogged up spots that have been bothering me all month. Check out this video and their channel for more. Is there a specific soundtrack or playlist you listen to during meditation?