How does this grab you? Intuitive Eclecticism!

[cheddarsox]

I've been musing on eclecticism lately and was sorta playing around with names for various paths...really just out of fun...like non-denominational eclectic light paganism..etc. Sort of the way that many Christian denominations have a list of adjectives, etc.

But it struck me that some of this could be useful, as more than just an amusing distraction while I am working (and my feet hurt).

And Intuitive Eclecticism came to me as a description of ecleticism that is based on intuition, rather than "cool factor". Like when people know about different paths and their practices, and they use what feels right according to their intuition, that inner calling that helps us sense "rightness".

When I first stumbled upon paganism and the pagan community, I was more of an eclectic "cool factor" or "fad" practitioner. I didn't know enough to have an intuition about what "fit". I was sort of an "Experimental Eclecticist" as well. I'd do various sabbats in various styles to see how it felt or went, or I'd do whatever seemed to be the latest "fad" in spirituality. Those were really fun, interesting and important stages to go through.

When something is a "fad", there is lots of information available, and often someone nearby who practices it so you can get real time experience. I don't use the term "fad" disparagingly at all, those things become popular because lots of people find them useful, "discover" them and spread the word around.

Anyway...just wondering what others think about the term...useful? or not?

[Malcolm]

I thought thats what all eclectics were...or is there a book on how to be eclectic now too? :lol:

[Brightshores]

I think your perspective on eclecticism is really interesting. I think it's a great idea to separate a true intuitive experience from what you term as "fad" eclecticism... there is a line there that a lot of people don't necessarily recognize.

(BTW, I am always really happy to take part in rational discussions about eclecticism. Too often it devolves into a fight between recons that say all eclectics are disrespectful and ignorant, and defensive eclectics who don't always portray themselves in the best light. Kudos to you for starting this thread. :) )

[Malcolm]

I think your perspective on eclecticism is really interesting. I think it's a great idea to separate a true intuitive experience from what you term as "fad" eclecticism... there is a line there that a lot of people don't necessarily recognize.

(BTW, I am always really happy to take part in rational discussions about eclecticism. Too often it devolves into a fight between recons that say all eclectics are disrespectful and ignorant, and defensive eclectics who don't always portray themselves in the best light. Kudos to you for starting this thread. :) )

I'm a recon, I used to be ecclectic. I like to think I was an intuitive ecclectic, but speaking from personal experience... I was really just too lazy to do the work. I wanted to fly before I could crawl and I wanted to know the answers before I could even read the riddles. :)

[Brightshores]

I'm a recon, I used to be ecclectic. I like to think I was an intuitive ecclectic, but speaking from personal experience... I was really just too lazy to do the work. I wanted to fly before I could crawl and I wanted to know the answers before I could even read the riddles. :)
Fair enough. In my experience, eclecticism works for some people; reconstructionism works for others, and still other people need other types of organization. As far as I'm concerned... I know I'd never make it as a recon... but cheers to those who do. :cheers:

Personally - I am an eclectic. I'd like to think I'm intuitive, but I know I have a lot of work to do. Thinking about the concept of being an "intuitive eclectic" makes me consider other ways to think more critically about myself and my spirituality, which is always very useful.

[lavenderdawn]

I think we think alike Cheddarsox! Intuitive Eclectic describes my path perfectly. I try to live that way too. I have designed a concept called "Intuitive Living" that I teach in workshops.

I feel that there is far too little encouragement for developing one's own sense of discernment in most magical training.

I'm of the school, if it works for you, then do it.