Re: IMPACT Trainings
Posted by:
DisiectiPoetae
()
Date: June 06, 2009 08:13PM
Hello!
First of all... Wow.
Thank you for your feedback. I'm glad to hear that my words didn't fall on deaf ears, and hopefully people DO realize that the trainings have NOTHING to do with actual Pagan belief systems. Honestly, that was one of the things that outraged me to begin with. We have a hard enough time trying to convince people that we're not a bunch of nuts as it is!
I'm willing to elaborate... a bit. Although I never attended Impact, I still find myself in a precarious situation, as far as my assumed "freedoms of speech" go.
I cannot speak for EVERY variation of poly-theisitic religion.. but.. from what I know of most of them, (which is a considerable amount) I'd say that if you took the time to speak with them, they'd say very similar things. I have struggled with labeling myself, and cannot seem to find anything that seems fitting to me and my personal beliefs, so I avoid placing a name of it outside of readily accepting "Pagan."
I do practice mediation techniques daily, I've studied and delved into chakra work, and I have a particular reverence for Nature. Sadly, I feel that, after this experience, people have come to some conclusions about those practices that are faulty. However, I refuse to hold those people at fault, for the INTENT behind the practices was twisted and confused when it was presented to them.
I have 2 things to say right now, and then I'll leave it alone for a minute.
1) I have observed that Impact Trainees are being taught practices that are closely tied into specific beliefs, but are NOT being taught about intent or about the religious aspects of the practices outside of whatever BS Hans and Sally have decided to feed them. Which... can be rather dangerous if you're active in the occult and have any knowledge or belief in it whatsoever. A wise lesson to learn, in general. A little respect goes a long way, especially when you're dealing with things that are "bigger than you." Not to mention... certain types of chakra work, meditation, and Reiki practices, (of which the "crystal work" reminds me) can actually be dangerous to both your physical AND mental health if not studied under someone who has an understanding of the risk factors, CARES about your well-being, and knows what the hell they're doing!
2) Pagans believe and function on a very specific value system. Of course, Impact has managed to twist even THAT. However, if you research Neo-Pagan religions you will find that there are very strict guidelines concerning the safety of any person you teach. You are basically taking on the responsibility of making sure that individual walks away from you as physically, emotionally, and mentally stable/healthy (if not MORE SO) as they were when you started. AND... Most importantly, following the direction of the thread after the last post...
No. It is NOT ever okay to accept payment IN ANY FORM in return for such teachings, outside of reasonable and voluntary donations that would assist in providing learning tools, books, and travel expenses. By my code of ethics, to accept money in return for teaching anyone anything I would consider a spiritual practice/exercise is outrageous.
IT. DOESN'T. HAPPEN.
As a matter of fact, Pagan groups often host public circles in parks and such. Anyone and everyone is welcome to come by and check it out, ask questions, etc...
That's all I have, for now. I apologize if this reply seems "rambling." I'm in a bit of a rush, but I'll check back and I'd be happy to answer any questions.