To Know :: Pagan Values Month

To Know is . . . to accept, with our hearts and our minds that which is Truth, and with the responsibilty of that Knowledge act with humility, integrity and compassion.

Usually, when we think of 'knowing', we think of it in intellectual terms - who has the most general knowledge or who is cleverest. In my opinion as a pagan, knowing is something a lot more intangible and heartfelt than that. To me, knowing is interchangeable with understanding, which breeds humility and compassion.

Knowing

But what is that we understand? It's the understanding that we are connected to the web of life, that we are not seperate from everything else in the world. That deity is both out there, in that web of life, and within ourselves - because we are a part of it. It's knowing that we are spiritual beings on a luscious, painful, achingly beautiful human journey. That's where humility comes in. How can we not be humble when we know that we are connected to all life, from incandescent specks of stars to tentative unfurling roots in damp earth?

A part of accepting this as our divine birthright is learning to accept that as a truth. When I wake up, all morning breath and bed hair, I certainly don't feel divine! This is a part of being on that human journey - to experience doubt, worry, insecurity, disbelief. To know is to have faith in our own truths, regardless of how far we feel from them.

Knowledge of our spiritual heritage can certainly be an empowering tool in our daily lives. What do we do with this knowledge? But what happens when we do not nurture that knowledge? When we do not recognise or practice our own truths?

When we forget that we are connected to all life, we can become self absorbed, and concerned only with our own egos. Our egos, without the guidance of this Knowledge and our Higher Self, can turn us into selfish, greedy, and rather ignorant people. We fail to see our part in the scheme of things, often not taking responsibilty for how our actions affect others.

But, when our actions stem from our own truths and knowledge, how can we not act with humility and compassion? When we can see the face of the God*dess in all who we meet, how can we not show empathy or openness? And, when during our everyday lives, we have a moment where we stop and realise just how amazingly complex and wondrous life is, how can we not be humble? This humility naturally leads to reverence and respect, not only for nature but for all who we meet on our paths. By taking up the Sword of Knowledge in our lives, we become upholders of all that we find good and worthy in the world.

10 comments:

Janice Lynne Lundy 6 June 2009 at 11:24  

Haley,
This is an amazing post! I am going to print it off and put it in my file of inspiration. You've written it so beautifully, from the heart. You can just feel your passion for truth and love and life flow though.

The humility of which you speak is so important, I agree. And, truly, how can we not be when we dedicate ourselves to this unfolding path of higher awareness? My passion for living with calm, clarity, and compassion keeps me ever humble. There is so little I know, so much to learn, so many layers of false self to be peeled back. Sigh...But such is the journey and it is full of awe, as you imply.

I also appreciate your interspiritual approach. I can just feel your embrace of all beings on this path. I am so glad our paths have crossed, wise lady. :-)

Haley @ Iridescent Dark 6 June 2009 at 12:09  

Jan: Thankyou sooo much for you kind and uplifting words! I'm glad you picked out the part about humility - I personally think this is the most important point. As for your inspiration file, I am so happy that you consider my ramblings important enough for it! I'm glad we've crossed paths too - speaking of which, your gift is very nearly complete, so send me your address at:
h1watson@hotmail.co.uk
Again, many thanks for your kindness! x

Debra She Who Seeks 6 June 2009 at 21:29  

Namaste, Haley! Great post.

mel 7 June 2009 at 07:18  

Indeed, a brilliant post....

Suzi Smith 7 June 2009 at 07:26  

Yep, brilliantly written hayley x

Haley @ Iridescent Dark 7 June 2009 at 07:28  

Thanks guys! x

Sharon Knight 9 June 2009 at 10:41  
This comment has been removed by the author.
Sharon Knight 9 June 2009 at 10:43  

Hi Haley - Thanks for your comment on my blog. I thought I'd come check you out! Nice blog - I really like your recent one about knowing, and the Sword of Knowledge. I often speak of the Sword of Sovereignty. (Sovereignty is a big theme for me!)

I am new to blogging so it is good for me to meet my fellow bloggers. I hope to see you around cyberspace more often.

:+) - Sharon (whose blog is at http://www.sharonknight.wordpress.com)

the wandering broom 11 August 2009 at 20:57  

Helloo! I just found your blog a couple of days ago and am just mesmerized by your essays. Thank you so much for them. You speak with such clarity and eloquence and truth. Like Jan, I've saved your post and filed it way in my own inspiration folder as well. Thanks again and keep them coming!

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