At a very young age I realized that, individuality being what it is, one religion could not fulfill the spiritual needs of all of the people on Earth. Thus, I never objected to any religion so long as it did not promote violence or evil tendencies. I was about 18 when I realized that I was one of the people that Christianity would not fulfill. While I truly have no problems with Christianity, it simply cannot and does not reach me. So I began my search, trying Wicca at first. I tried to learn and dedicate myself to Wicca, but found it as empty for me as Christianity. As did most other religions I tried. All the while this emptiness continued to grow within me, this unfulfilled need, almost as if something was calling to me, and while my heart and soul could hear it, I couldn't understand what it was whispering to me.
Then, I discovered Celtic Reconstructionalist. It struck a cord in me, drew my attention, captured my interest. Little did I know that the journey had just begun and the difficulties were still ahead of me. I began searching the web for anything and everything on Celtic or Gaelic Paganism. Most of what I found contradicted the site I had visited before. (I have no doubt that this site will contradict several of the others) Yet, despite my growing frustration and lack of guidance I continued to search, for somehow that need inside of me began to subside, though the hunger grew in leaps and bounds. Then, I came across a site that saved me in more ways than I can state. I contacted them, and have been in contact with them ever since. I owe a great deal to them, and wish to thank them for all the aid they have given me. It was through them that I discovered exactly what my heart and soul craved, Gaelic Traditionalism.
Suddenly things that I had never understood about myself began to click into place, though I do not deny there is still much more that I am striving to understand about myself. Never the less, I began to understand why I have always been fascinated with the Tuatha De Dannan, and the Irish Faerie Tales. I also began to understand this ever-growing need within me to go to Ireland, and the reasons behind the passionate emotions burning inside of me towards any issue dealing with the Irish and Ireland. I realized that, no matter what I may be, my soul is Gaelic.
I, for several reasons, began looking into my own families past. I'd always known I was Irish, but it was the English heritage that my family always took pride in, to the point of ignoring the Irish heritage. Upon my genealogical searches I discovered just how very Gaelic I am. My great, great grandmother was a McCarty, and her mother was a McMullen. And, my great, great, great grandfather was a Logan, a shock considering I never knew we had Scottish ancestors as well. All of this is on my grandmother's side. I am in the process of searching my grandfather and father's side, anxious to see what I will find there as well.
My point to this is that, after a long, tiring, and often what seemed to be a hopeless journey, I found my place. And, I realize that what I was searching for is home. Now I have begun a new journey, one that I wish to share with others in the hope that in learning of my struggles and discoveries will aid in their journeys. Gaelic Traditionalism is not for everyone. Nor do you have to be of Gaelic descent for this to be the path you are to journey down. Someone once shared with me something they were told, and it is very, very true. "Your ancestors are not necessarily the ancestors of your soul." This is not an easy path, for to truly follow Gaelic Traditionalism one will find themselves changing their lifestyle to one that is true to the old ways while still fitting into our modern world. However, this is true of most religious choices. All I ask is that; if this is the path for you, realize that Gaelic Traditionalism is far more than a religious choice. It is a way of living, returning to a simpler, truer way of life. In fact, it is a way of life, one that encompasses far more than just religion.
I realize this is more about why I came to create this website, but that is about me as well. This website is a very deep part of me, and I think you will find you will come to know me and understand me more than you may think at this point. In closing, I'd like to say that, whatever your choices are, I wish you well. Follow your heart and soul; neither are likely to lead you astray. And, may your God/Gods always shine down on you, and guide you.
Saorla Fey McCarty
