There is a certain je ne sai quoi about calling oneself a pagan. It is not as if our beliefs are that singular—nature as sacred, interconnectedness, the divine feminine, unity through diversity, tolerance, and an acceptance of relative or subjective knowledge. Many other religions embrace many of these ideals. So, what is it about paganism as a religion, a practice, a worldview, and a community that calls so strongly to some and repulses others? Why does it have this ability to polarize people to take such dramatic views and actions either in its support or for its destruction?

Drama. Drama makes the enchantment of the world seem a little too real. Drama gives life to otherwise provocative, but harmless, philosophies of the mind. Drama embodies the magick and urges the fantasy to be enacted. Drama moves the heart and befuddles the mind.

I suspect that we are drawn to paganism and pagan forms of worship because of the drama. The fire of the spirit is allowed free reign to create something beautiful, alluring, enveloping. And the beautiful is always a bit dangerous. Paganism is a religion of artists, musicians, dancers, pyros, poets, mad-hatters, wild animals, and angels.

And that is why some will heed its call, while around them, other condemn it.