As a Druid, as a pagan, and as a human being, we all face moments in our lives in which we encounter evil, witness an injustice, possibly see a fellow human in need of help or maybe our Earth or some of the beasts who cohabit it with us being abused or suffering from neglect. It is in these moments that we must make decisions that give clear indications as to our basic character, that define exactly who we are. There are usually two simple options to choose from; to decide that the situation at hand falls directly under the category of ‘not my problem’ and continue on our way, leaving the remedy, if any, to others. Or, alternately, to take a stand against wrong, to choose some course of action that, hopefully, will set the situation to right. Those who have committed themselves to walking the warrior path, whether they name it so or not, know only of the second choice, the first is unfathomable.

In choosing action, there are many things that need to be considered. First, one must make every attempt to follow a course that will cause a minimum of harm to all parties involved, while still bringing the situation to a satisfactory closure. This is not often an easy task. There are times when it is impossible to stop harmful action without engaging in harmful action. It is hoped that in these cases, the good is clearly defined from the bad, so that prolonged hesitation is not necessary, as this, in itself can cause defeat. It is also advisable, though difficult, to try to keep anger or disgust from clouding one’s judgment. Quite often the situations that would most prompt us to action are the very same situations that would most stimulate violent emotions. The warrior must trust in instinct, must at times trust themselves to make that split second decision that could make the difference between victory and defeat.

Still another consideration to take into account are the weapons at our disposal. As a Druid, I consider my most powerful and formidable weapon to be Truth. Many wrongful situations can be righted by administering a liberal portion of Truth. Lies and misconceptions can cause great harm, but cannot stand against Truth. My second most effective weapon is my Will, and through it the Will of the Olde Ones, the Shining Ones, the Lady and her Lord. Through training, discipline and rigorous practice we can achieve wonders through the focus of our Will. As a last resort, but not always lastly used, is a strong arm, a swift sword, or whatever other physical weapon that might be at hand. There unfortunately are, always have been, and always will be situations in which no other solution will suffice. We hope not to encounter these, but should never be unprepared for them. Conflict is a fact of life, it is how we deal with it, and what results we obtain, that mark us as who we are.

I feel it is equally important to recognize situations where we should avoid engaging the enemy. Instances arise where we are tempted to retaliate against petty actions, remarks or jealousies. This is not only beneath our dignity, it is a total waste of our time and energy, and can be debilitating to our health and mental stability. In most of these situations, action will fail to bring about any positive solution, and the end result will be little more than further frustration. Small minds cannot be altered through reason or force. If action cannot result in positive change, leave well enough alone. We must also learn to accept and recognize when a problem requires additional strengths and feel free to call comrades to our aid. There is strength in numbers, regardless of the type of conflict or the weapons that must be employed in resolution. Count on those to whom you have given your trust. Constantly strive to increase your network of allies. The more friends and allies we can muster at any given moment proportionately increases the size and complexity of the problems we can successfully resolve.

On a final note, there will always be a question of how much we are willing to sacrifice in order to set wrongs to right. To what degree are we willing to put ourselves at risk for any given situation? I can answer only for myself, for I know that there are causes and injustices for which I would, without hesitation, lay down my life. But these are extreme cases and only your personal conscience and morality can assist you in making these determinations.

A word on fear: Fear is not something to deny or of which to be ashamed. Fear is a warning system. It is the mind and spirit’s way of telling us that danger exists and that we should exercise caution. Never mistake courage for the absence of fear. Courage is a personal ability to control and overcome fear in order to accomplish a necessary task. Courage cannot exist without fear, for to act in the absence of fear does not require courage.

If the path of the warrior has chosen you, walk it proudly, but without undue arrogance. Do what is in your power to fight evil and alleviate injustice. Do not expect everyone else to join you on this path, there are those who are warriors and those who are not. This is merely a difference, not a failing or a weakness. Some of us will do battle on the front lines while others help the world in their own ways. As above, so below.