Pagan Musings From A Pagan Person

 Wow, sometimes it's just amazing how quickly time goes by! I was puttering around the house, getting ready for tonight, and I realized it's been a minute since I said anything here, so.....here I am! I'm sure summer is busy for everyone, and I'm no exception.  Part of my summer is spent at a renaissance faire, being a Traveler and entertainer.  We get to spend our weekends in the 1400s, antagonizing the townsfolks, avoiding the Queen, and dancing for patrons.  It's great fun, and it's also quite warm! Because of the timing of that particular ren faire, my coven generally does Summer Solstice each on our own.  We do try to come together for sabbats and esbats, but life happens, and we don't always manage to do it.  But as we come towards the end of summer, we almost always get together for Lughnasadh, and as the director of a public Pagan entity, I also organize an open ceremony (we don't do formal ritual for open events).  And tonight is our ceremony!...

  Does there come a point in our lives as Pagan Elders that we should remove ourselves from teaching and/or leading? I’ve been a part of the Pagan community for many years.  I’ve taught, led public groups and private covens, been a face and a voice (and a target), organized events, done all the things that are expected of someone who calls themselves “clergy.”  More than once, I’ve questioned whether or not I’ve worn out my welcome, as it were. I’ve tried to step down before.  I know there are plenty of smart, capable people in my local community, and I know my absence wouldn’t cause any problems.  I’m sure many would welcome my absence!  But with every attempt to return to a private life, someone asks me to come out again, to help organize an event, teach a class, speak to a group.  I appreciate that some folks out there want my input with projects.  However…. I’m tired.  I’ve spent most of my life as a public figure in the Pagan community, ...