God shouldn't be limited to just male gender

Editor:

This letter is in regard to Barbara Seaborns column that appeared Oct. 27, entitled In "Goddess we trust.

Let me start by saying that I enjoy reading the columns authored by Seaborn. She strikes me as a very thoughtful, well-meaning person. Her articles seem to express her deep spiritual beliefs. However, I feel compelled to help explain a belief system that she does not know much about.

First, the assumption that Goddess traditions are new philosophies is incorrect. Pagan traditions pre-date Christianity by several centuries. They are not, as was stated, new and untried.

Second, Goddess traditions are not an attempt by feminists to make God over into a more believable image. The fact is, Pagan traditions are followed by both men and women. Different views exist regarding the nature of deities. Personally, the view that I hold is that of a duality of a spiritual being(s). I see this view of both the aspects as complimenting each other, balancing the spiritual realm, so to speak.

This relates to my goal on this path. That goal is to find and attain balance within my own life, with my relationships with others, the earth, and nature.

I believe that the resurgence of Goddess traditions, shows that there is a desire among some to re-introduce the female aspect of the deity.

This aspect was villified by the spread of Christianity. I feel that perhaps the reason behind the bumper-sticker to which Seaborn refers is a desire to move back to a more balanced view of this great life force.

I agree that limiting God to a gender doesnt expand my idea of God. But isnt it just as limiting to see God as only male?

Pam Harris

Harlem