In this modern world of supposed inclusivity and diversity, it is strange that we still use outdated and insulting words and thought concepts to refer to certain religious practices. Now, you might be thinking, "Nothing wrong with "pagan" and "heathen - they've been around forever!"

Firstly, there are the origins of the term "pagan." It stems from the Latin word "paganus," meaning a rustic or a country-dweller. Back in the day, when Christianity started gaining prominence, anything that deviated from their religious beliefs was considered inferior or even evil. Those who lived in the countryside were often the last to embrace Christianity, hence the derogatory term "pagan" came into existence. Now, fast forward to the present day. We live in a society that celebrates diversity and encourages individuals to embrace their own beliefs and practices. Similarly, "heathen" goes hand in hand with the derogatory image of non-Christians. Originally coined by early Christians to demean people who practiced non-Christian faiths, the term has fueled misconceptions and prejudices for centuries.

So, why are we still using a term with a historically negative connotation to refer to those who follow non-mainstream religions? One of the main issues with the word "pagan" is that it lumps together a wide variety of belief systems and practices under one umbrella term. Wicca, Druidism, Asatru, and many others all fall under the category of "pagan." Each of these groups have their own unique sets of beliefs, rituals, and traditions. By using one word to label them all, we fail to acknowledge their individuality and distinctiveness. Moreover, the words "pagan" and "heathen" carry a sense of mockery and ridicule, often used by those who do not understand or accept these different spiritualities. It's time to move away from this derogatory language and adopt a new term that respects and acknowledges the diverse spiritual paths people choose to follow.

What words should we use instead? I wish I had an answer. The community itself should decide on a word, or better yet several words, which accurately represent their beliefs and practices. It needs to be something reflecting the diversity of these belief systems while avoiding any negative or derogatory connotations.

The word "witch" carries similar problems. Reclamation all nice and well, but for the generation of my grandparents, a witch was still the one causing harm, often out of pure spite and envy. They would have used words like wise woman, herbal healer, magic people and a lot more to describe themselves, but never witch. The same negative associations are still present for many of the African and Asian cultures and sub cultures. A sangoma, for example is not a witch, despite some people using the derogatory term "witch doctor" for them. It leads to a plethora of misunderstandings, which I have experienced myself as the father of my son is from Nigeria. And even in our western society, a witch is what you call a usually outspoken person you don't like.

Also, we are all so different. My version of witch is not the same as that of a Wicca. Yet very often when people understand I am what is commonly called a witch I get "oh you are Wiccan." No! Am so not! And no, not all witches are female either, another fact that's lost on many people.

Why should we let a single word define us? Why should we limit ourselves to this one label that's loaded with misconceptions and prejudice? Words have power! The way we speak about something influences how we perceive it. By choosing other words for witches, we can initiate a shift in mindset. We can break away from the stereotypes and create a space for understanding.

Ok, I'm stepping off the soapbox. If you managed to read to here, you can keep the typos you found, there will likely be a lot despite me using a spellcheck this time.