Any pagan nurses here?

allnurses Guide · Mar 1, 2005

I'm looking for advice on how to deal with others who know nothing of your religion and aren't necessarily open-minded about things....

I'm a Christian and have the same problem. People make assumptions.

I just don't share any information unless someone specifically asks me. Religious practices are private and of no one's concern but if someone is truly seeking and interested and asking, I just tell them how I feel.

Otherwise, I just live and let live.

steph

klone, MSN, RN · Mar 1, 2005

I'm not currently a practicing Wiccan, but I used to be.

WHy does the topic even come up? When I was an active Wiccan, I just didn't discuss it with others. Heck, as a Catholic, I don't discuss THAT with others, either. It's just never come up in conversation with fellow students. And if it did, like other aspects of my life which are outside the mainstream, I generally just listen and choose not to participate in the conversation. You could make that choice, too.

Aneroo, LPN · Mar 1, 2005

Christian. We did an exercise in one of our fundamentals class, where we divided up into our religious groups, and there was one girl who said flat out she didn't believe in God (any sort of God, not just the Christian God). If my patient wanted me to pray with them, I would. I ask them about the religious views, so I know about the psychosocial background, as well as any support they may get once they are discharged. But, I do not openly share my beliefs with them. I don't believe in pushing my religion on anyone (it's the reason I didn't become a Christian until I was 20).

Back to the op, No, I'm not pagan, don't know of any. But then again, I live in the Bible belt. -A

twinmommy+2, ADN, BSN, MSN · Mar 1, 2005

I used to be a practicing Wiccan and let me tell you that no matter where you go you will find people who will try and put you down for what they "think" you are doing. Now, they won't let you tell them the truth of what you are doing. They will want to keep to their own perception of what the Wiccan faith is or isn't.

There isn't anything you can really do about that. I know it has to be hard to go through class though with closed minded people. Try and keep yourself as being a positive person and maybe you can change some of their perceptions just by doing that.

If they ask you questions, honest questions (not the belittling kind) then answer them directly without going into too much information cause that can turn people off fast. You will get a feel for how much they want to know.

And as far as the negative people, give it up cause you don't have time or energy to waste on people like that. Focus on the majority of people who are good and positive and focused on the same goal you are, becoming a nurse.

merei · Mar 1, 2005

Thanks ya'll. I really appreciate the responses.

Kyriaka · Mar 1, 2005

I am a Greek Orthodox Christian. The only time it really comes up is when Easter comes around and my Easter is 5 weeks later!

ConkyTonker · Apr 15, 2005

I'm a Christian and have the same problem. People make assumptions.
I just don't share any information unless someone specifically asks me. Religious practices are private and of no one's concern but if someone is truly seeking and interested and asking, I just tell them how I feel.
Otherwise, I just live and let live.
steph

Ditto from a Theosophist/pagan.

Trauma Columnist · Apr 15, 2005

In the professional workplace - this is probably one of the things best not discussed and some of these subjects include: religion, politics, salaries and sex life.

Keepstanding, ASN, RN · Apr 15, 2005

Can you explain what these terms mean ? What do you believe ? Who do your worship ? I guess I haven't been exposed to it in my world .

Thanks !

Tweety, BSN, RN · Apr 15, 2005

I think our faith effects how we live and perhaps our personal philosphies of nursing. However, as a nurses, I'm more concerned that my patients spiritual needs are being met, and if they need assistance that I find it for them, via our chaplin service. I talk about spirituality frequently with patients, because many of them feel either greatful or angry. I just don't talk about my spirituality.

But I'm like Steph, if anyone cares to ask, I'll talk about it.

My spouse studied Wiccan and it's very interesting. There parallels with other faiths, particularly some Christian traditions are quite interesting. He wears a pentagram at all times. He's cast a spell or two on me. :)

teeituptom, BSN, RN · Apr 15, 2005

Im Pagan also I guess

I Glorify and pray to the greatest of Gods.....

My Golf Game.

And I will talk about it every chance I get. Un like other religions that on Sat or Sunday have you go to church on a beautifull day. My God sends me out into the warm air and sunshine to enjoy the green grass, the fresh air, the gentle breezes, and good company.