The Druidic College

The Perils of Popularity

In the fast paced, ‘I-want-it-yesterday,’ world of today, understanding the philosophy and values of an ancient philosophy such as Druidry can be a challenge to many. This is by no means exclusive to Druidry alone in the pagan community. Many seek a new (or should we say ‘old’), more fulfilling path than those that have devolved into the western traditional norms. In doing so, some of these seekers dart about trying this, then that, and then another alternative. Although it may ultimately produce satisfactory solutions for them, it can portend chaos and instability for established groups, their members, and leadership. Druidry is particularly susceptible to these negative results because of its very structured nature. While it is both a philosophy and a religion, it is also a discipline in the fundamental sense of the word. It can most closely be equated to a monastic order, and indeed is most certainly where they originated. Druidic colleges were the paradigm for the earliest European colleges and universities. Whereas modern druidic orders are constructed in much the same way as monastic orders, they do not of course lead the same cloistered existence. For this we pay a price. As a discipline, Druidry necessitates a high degree of dedication, commitment and enthusiasm for study: a thirst for knowledge. These are often anathemas to the impatient seeker. To truly become a druid, one of any substance that is, requires the acquisition of a selfless attitude, and that takes time even for those already that way inclined. Satisfaction and enlightenment derive from service to others. One must learn to trust and respect the knowledge and experience, not only of the order elders, but of all others. Knowledge is not an hierarchical commodity. In recent times numerous groups, both druidic and other traditions, have sprung up in efforts to offer alternatives to the growing throng of spiritual explorers. Many are founded in aged-old, tried and tested practice. Unfortunately, more than a few are flash-in-the-pan concoctions from the imaginations of the hoards of the inexperienced; opportunists and self-proclaimed authorities. These ‘experts’ suddenly appear on the scene ready and willing to “teach us the right way.” Fortunately most disappear just as quickly as they materialized. But too many linger long enough to queer the pitch for the genuine adepts. Concurrent with this phenomenon are the numbers of spiritual grasshoppers who may be more aptly styled spiritual mosquitoes. They leap from group to group, joining in and playing the ‘jolly-good-fellows.’ Who would not welcome such enthusiasm? All too soon they begin to challenge the established traditions and the authority of the group elders. “Change and improvement,” become their watchwords, but it is most often change without substance and intended for their convenience. After draining the lifeblood and essence from the group, they leap away in the hunt for their next quarry, leaving a trail of bedlam in their wake. These are some of the perils of popularity. Inescapable perhaps but by no means insurmountable! Druidry, once mastered, can be incredibly fulfilling and rewarding, but it is not an easy journey and is not for everyone. The aspirant druid must learn patience and humility as well as a healthy respect for their mentors. When members of an order work in harmony together, the results are immeasurably beneficial to them and to all with whom the come into contact.