GOOD NEWS AND A LEAP OF FAITH

arely do I have good news to share. For me, the daily struggle and the mundane routine are the norm, especially this year, which has been a particularly challenging one so far. So to be able to say this gives me immense pleasure...

​Last week, my youngest daughter, Rags, passed her driving test!

This achievement is a bright spot in a difficult year, and I couldn't be prouder of her hard work and determination.

I've never been a strong advocate for the motor car. While I'm not against the principle of the "horseless carriage," I do have concerns about its misuse by society—a topic I've discussed before.

​However, I believe a driving licence is a valuable qualification that can open many doors professionally. That's why Rags' achievement is such fantastic news for her. With her beat-up old Ford Focus, she now has the mobility and freedom she's never had before.

The organisation I work for is having a week of articles on different faiths, they've asked me to write about mine. I’ve been asked by the Diversity Hub at work to contribute an article for our intranet, as part of a week dedicated to exploring different faiths. As what's probably the token pagan in the organisation, they wanted my outlook. I've written something they're happy with, and it's set to be published in November. The thing is, while I'm completely comfortable with my beliefs and it's certainly no secret, I rarely talk about it. So, this article will be me baring my soul to all. I was even offered anonymity, which I declined. I'm happy to give you an exclusive first look right here.

Modern Paganism is a collection of diverse, nature-based spiritual paths inspired by pre-Christian traditions. Unlike many mainstream religions, it has no central authority, holy book, or fixed doctrine. Instead, Paganism values personal experience, community, and diversity. Many Pagans emphasise reverence for the earth and the interconnectedness of life, with traditions like Wicca, Druidry, and Heathenry among its most recognised forms.

Multiple gods and goddesses are often honoured, drawn from Celtic, Norse, Roman, or Greek pantheons. Practices vary widely and may include ritual, meditation, ancestor veneration, or magic. Some Pagans are pantheistic, seeing divinity in all of nature, or animistic, believing in the spirits of the land. Not all Pagans include deities in their practice.

A ritual is a meaningful set of actions, such as marking a special moment, celebrating a festival, or creating a sacred space. Magic is focusing energy and intention to create change—rituals can include magic, but don’t always. Not all Pagans practise magic, and it isn’t a necessary part of spiritual life.

The Wheel of the Year is central to connecting with the seasons and nature. It divides the year into eight festivals, marking key points in the natural cycle. While inspired by ancient European traditions, the modern Wheel was developed in the mid-20th century by Wiccan and Druidic revivalists.

As a Pagan, I have found my spiritual home in Heathenry, a modern revival of pre-Christian belief systems of the Germanic peoples of Northern Europe. Heathenry is polytheistic, honouring deities, nature, and ancestors. We venerate gods such as Odin, the Allfather; Thor, the protector; Týr, god of law and courage; and Freyja, goddess of love, beauty, and war. I also honour Celtic deities like Cernunnos, Ceridwen, and Brigantia/Brigid. Their guidance is integral to my spiritual journey.

Rituals, called blóts, often involve offerings of food and drink to gods, spirits, and ancestors. Reciprocity is central: offerings symbolically share a meal and seek wisdom in return. Blóts can be community or solitary celebrations.

Heathenry emphasises personal honour, integrity, and loyalty. Respecting others and keeping one’s word are core values. Our community is diverse and inclusive, welcoming anyone who feels connected to the gods and traditions. We believe the wisdom of the past can guide us toward a meaningful and harmonious future.

I have felt a connection to the energies around me for as long as I can remember, searching for my path before finding Heathenry. My mother and youngest daughter are also spiritual, with my daughter following a Wiccan path. While some Heathens practise in groups called “kindreds,” I am solitary. My practice provides comfort, focus, and a sense of peace, with special spaces both indoors and out that connect me with the gods.

Like many faiths, Paganism offers a path of meaning, connection, and respect for life—values that unite us across spiritual traditions.

It's a huge step for me to share this, and I genuinely hope it's well-received and deepens the understanding my colleagues have of me. I'll also be using the text on the faith page of my website, making it a permanent part of my online space.

Check out my social media

instagram.com/CaptainKirt

threads.net/CaptainKirt

bsky.app/profile/captainkirt.kirt.me.uk

tiktok.com/@captainkirt

take a look at my webcomic at northman.kirt.me.uk