What is a Druid?

Hello blogland,

I have recently read a discussion about the definition of 'druid'. This peaked my interest as this is a very complex topic, with issues touching on validation, appropriation and such. This has also inspired my very first blog entry ever...ever...ever...ever...ever..........

This has been posted elsewhere on discussion groups.
Just what is a Druid, anyway?
My definition may be seen as kind of wishy-washy to some, and I think that others might accuse me of being one of those who contribute to a perceived meaninglessness of the word 'druid'.
Let me explain.
I know that to some, 'druid' is an impossibility. Something that cannot be since there is not enough original druid material to help us define just what it is- or was at any rate. I think that this is a criticism of the reconstructionists. How can you reconstruct something that is lost? (I would debate that a little...but that is another topic).
Others, of course, feel that a 'true' druid is one who belongs to an Order. Solitaries are wanna-be's, is the mantra for some still.
Others yet feel that modern expressions of Druid identity make up the natural flow of an evolving living tradition- this is closer to my own view.
However, there are those who feel that those of us who think that an individuals druid identity cannot be disputed, are stretching the word so thin, or giving it so much versatility, that the word 'druid' is losing any real meaning.
How about the notion that all of the projected meanings actually pack the word 'druid' with even more meaning, versatility, a complexly applicable dynamic?

Here's my take.

I make no bones about calling myself a druid. I am very much still a student, a Solitary/Peregrine for ten years, in training with an order for 5 years as a Bard. I am not saying that I am a great druid. Or even just a good one. Just a druid doing his darnedest to do this whole business some justice.

What nerve do I have? Druid? Priest? I was 'called'. I'm sure there are many here who can relate to this experience- it is not just a Christian one- it is a cross-cultural experience, and one that is difficult to refuse. In the eyes of the Gods i am druid. In the eyes of the spirits, i am druid. In the eyes of those gone before, i am druid. In my heart, i am druid. In my mind, i am druid. In my body, i am druid.

This experience cannot, of course be measured or verified by others in our community. It is a matter of faith, and for that reason i will never question another’s identity as 'druid'.
Here is this put another way:
There are many kinds of Christians, yet all 'Christian' (yes i know many Christian groups question others' validity...oi!)
There are many kinds of Buddhists, yet all Buddhist.
...et cetera ad infinitum...
so...
there are many kinds of druids, yet all Druid.
There is a Druid expression I’ve heard much of late; An cairdeas mor shaoghal nan druidh. A worldwide Fellowship of Druids. Such a notion betrays an acknowledgment of diversity. How can it be otherwise?

This makes a world of sense to me, at any rate;
I see Druidry as a path aligned with the natural order. A healthy ecosystem is one with diversity. Thus it must be for Druidism, a whole-systems approach to the tradition(s) is my approach. I'd imagine that this view would be appropriate for many 'pagan' traditions.

So, you say you're a druid. Shake my hand and welcome to the club, my friend. Sometimes it's a thankless job, but, Gods willing, with a little sweat and tears, we will, along with the myriad other spiritual traditions, make a difference in this world!

Blessings of Awen,
Aspen/|\

Druid 

Merlin