The recent article by Judy Ducayne about Wicca perpetuates misunderstanding.

I am a Druid. I believe in many of the same things as the Wicca. Such misunderstandings are our fault if we just sit back and allow others with an agenda to define who we are. We don't have a devil because the concept of “the fall” is not part of our liturgy.

We don't have a hell, because we don't believe in an entity that would put you through eternal torment just because you don't worship it properly.

We are earth-based evolved religions. We developed practices that enable us to live in harmony with the natural order, because doing so promotes the survival ability of our species.

We embrace science, including the knowledge of evolution. Our species has a compulsion to hate and distrust that which is different.

Early in our development, those “others” from outside the clan would steal food, steal mates and sometimes kill you. Those with an aversion to the “others,” survived better and their genes survived with them. This compulsion can be seen in children (even if not taught). It is the source of war, torture, anti-Semitism, homophobia, racism and adolescent cruelty of all sorts.

For generations, religious and political leaders have acted to gain power by stirring up this compulsion to hate that which is different. Presently, it's immigrants and homosexuals. Some wish to add Wicca to this group.

It is just too easy to get people there. Seeing this hatred being promoted from pulpits throughout our culture is inexcusable.

We are not anti-Christian. We have no interest in converting anyone. There is just the One.

It has many names and many faces depending on ones ancestry, language, climate and survival system. The goal is to find the metaphors that work for you, the one that connects you with the light.

We rejoice when people find their own path and are not interested in steering them to a different path just because it works for others.

Encouraging conversion just misses the point.

Ms. Ducayne, know that we love you and forgive you, and rejoice that you have found your path to the light.

James L. Bianchi Esq. or the Druid James, Ovate of Taliesin

Benicia, Calif.