I Am Thinking, Therefore I Am — a quiet blade slipped beneath a famous phrase. We’ve inherited “I think, therefore I am” as marble. But Descartes’ own French breathes: “Je pense, donc je suis” — present, alive: I am thinking, therefore I am.
In this reflection, Papa Onyx traces how a small translation choice can shape whole cultures. We visit 1637’s Discourse on the Method (French), 1641’s Meditations (Latin), and Descartes’ 1647 return to French — then ask what else we’ve accepted in stone that began as breath.
Join the conversation: the hearth for comments is the companion essay on OnyxPonders.com (search the title “Cogito Ergo Sum — What Got Lost in Translation”).
Intro voice: Luniea • Host: Papa Onyx • Production: Papa Onyx
In this episode of Ponderings of a Pagan Priest, Papa Onyx wades into the messiness of true leadership. We often want our leaders to appear spotless — stainless, polished, untouched by the dirt of human conflict. But real leadership is never clean. It means scars, misunderstandings, and carrying the shadows of others.Through myth, parable, and reflection, Papa Onyx explores why dirt is not a mark of failure but proof of service — and why the stains of leadership may be the most sacred signs of all.Explore more at
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What happens when the voice of the priest falls silent?
In this intimate and reflective episode of Ponderings of a Pagan Priest, Papa Onyx returns after a long pause—not with fanfare, but with reverence for the stillness that shaped him. This is not just a comeback; it is a confession, a contemplation, and a quiet unfolding.
Why do those who speak for Spirit sometimes fall silent? What truths are hidden in the hush? What does it cost to withhold words, and what grows in their absence?
Through myth, memory, and personal revelation, this episode explores:
With questions to stir your own reflection:
Whether you’ve missed his voice or are discovering it for the first time, this episode is a gentle invitation back into the Mystery—a reminder that sometimes, the most sacred words are the ones that waited.
“The voice you’re hearing now is tempered by the hush—less for performance, more for presence.”
Let the pondering begin.
Live Fully at Age and Stage
Not all who wander are lost—but some might be shape-shifters who forgot their true form.
In this episode of Ponderings of a Pagan Priest, we explore what it means to truly embrace life at every age and stage. Are you clinging to a past version of yourself? Resisting the flow of your own becoming? Or are you, like the trickster, slipping between roles, adapting to the Dance of time?
Join me as we unravel the tale of the Shape-Shifter Who Forgot Their True Form—one who danced through life’s transformations until they no longer remembered who they were. Through this story, we’ll examine how to engage with the present, honor the wisdom of our years, and recognize what life is asking of us now.
In this episode:
So, dear listener, what shape are you shifting into next?
Ponderings of a Pagan Priest releases new episodes every Tuesday.
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In all things, May you Blessed Be!
Not All Who Wander Are Lost... But Some Are
Wandering is a sacred act. It’s how we explore, how we grow, how we gather stories to line the pockets of our souls. But sometimes, wandering isn’t about seeking—it’s about avoiding. So how do we tell the difference?
In this episode of Ponderings of a Pagan Priest, we dive into the fine line between exploring and being lost. When does wandering serve us, and when is it just another way to dodge commitment? How do we know when it’s time to stop searching and start walking the path?
Join me as we reflect on:
If you’ve ever felt like you’re stuck in a loop of seeking, if you find yourself drawn to the next book, the next workshop, the next tradition—this episode is for you.
Because sometimes, the wisdom we seek isn’t out there—it’s already whispering, waiting for us to be still enough to listen.
So, are you lost, or are you learning? Let’s ponder that together.
Listen now and take the next step on your journey.
In all things, may you Blessed Be!
In this episode ofPonderings of a Pagan Priest, Papa Onyx guides us through the transformative concept of "the power in the pause." Life's rapids—political turmoil, social unrest, and personal struggles—can leave us feeling overwhelmed and reactive. But what if the key to navigating these challenges is not to fight harder, but to pause and gain clarity?
Using the vivid metaphor of white-water rafting, Papa Onyx explores how purposeful stillness can empower us to steer through chaos with wisdom. Discover how to align your actions with your values, avoid reactionary flailing, and fight for what truly matters. Through storytelling, reflection, and practical tips, you'll learn to harness the pause as a moment of strategy and strength.
Join us as we reflect on the balance between action and introspection, finding purpose in each step of life’s journey.
Keywords: power in the pause, spiritual growth, self-discovery, overcoming challenges, white-water rafting metaphor, mindfulness, clarity in chaos, NeoPagan spirituality, Papa Onyx, Ponderings of a Pagan Priest podcast.
In this episode of Ponderings of a Pagan Priest, Papa Onyx delves into the timeless art of storytelling within Pagan traditions. Beginning with the powerful myth of Inanna’s descent into the underworld, we explore the sacred role stories have played in shaping our spiritual paths, guiding personal transformation, and building community. From the ancient oral traditions of bards and druids to the creation of new myths in modern Paganism, storytelling is revealed as a living, evolving practice. Papa Onyx discusses how myths can be teaching tools, rituals in themselves, and mirrors that reflect the values and wisdom of the cultures that created them. We also explore the role of tricksters like Loki and Hermes, the balance between mirth and reverence, and how personal myths shape our spiritual journeys.
Join us by the fire for an engaging conversation about the stories that shape us, connect us, and invite us to grow. Blessed be, and enjoy the episode!
In this episode of Ponderings of a Pagan Priest, we explore the art of living between the magical and the mundane. Life often pulls us in unexpected directions, and even seasoned practitioners can find themselves distracted by the demands of the everyday. But instead of feeling guilt or frustration, we’re reminded to approach these moments with compassion—for ourselves and others.
Join me as we delve into practical ways to reconnect with the sacred: through mindful gratitude, simple meditation practices, and finding the Divine in the quiet moments of daily life. We’ll reflect on the beauty of being "perfectly imperfect," embracing our shared journey as works in progress.
Whether you’re new to the path or a long-time seeker, this episode is a heartfelt reminder that the magical and mundane are not separate but part of the same sacred dance. Let’s rediscover balance, honor the Divine within and around us, and hold space for growth and grace on our shared journey.
Blessed Be!
Join me as I tackle common misconceptions about Paganism in this enlightening episode. Discover how to foster understanding and shift the narrative through empathy, peaceful dialogue, and personal stories. Let's break down stereotypes together!
Join Papa Onyx as he embarks on a mystical journey through the alchemical process of personal transformation. Discover how ancient alchemy, with its blend of science, spirituality, and mysticism, laid the groundwork for modern science and psychology. Learn about notable figures like Isaac Newton, Roger Bacon, and Paracelsus, who were alchemists and pioneers in their fields. Explore the seven stages of alchemy and how they can be applied to your own path of growth and self-discovery. Tune in to uncover the profound wisdom of alchemy and its relevance in today's spiritual practices. All who wander are not lost—come wander with us!
Come along with me on an adventurous journey as we walk alongside The Fool of the Tarot. Witness his encounters with the powerful and mysterious Major Arcana and discover the profound lessons that he learns about life. Can we too learn from his experiences and grow along with him? Let's find out.
Join me as I briefly discuss Carl Jung's concept of The Self and the Process of Individuation. How can these inform and enhance our NeoPagan practice and paths?
Join me as I discuss etiquette within our community. These topics are drawn from my own experience and through discussions with others. There is no book on how we are expected to interact. However, there are some things I have noticed and witnessed, and discussed that seem to generally apply throughout our much-varied movement. In this episode, I talk about a few things to consider that may keep a new traveler in our circles from getting the "side eye" (so to speak). These are not presented as rules, simply thoughts, and observations.
We talk about balance. How does this idea play out in our community? Join me as I ponder and explore how balance and reciprocity affect us all in the community.
In this episode, I present a general overview of the Hermetic Qabalah along with a brief introduction to the Sepherot (spheres on the Tree of Life) and a quick listing of the 10 Archangels. I touch on how the Tarot corresponds to the Tree of Life. I briefly explain an underlying fundamental difference between the Hermetic Qabalah and the Jewish Kabbalah.
After some sacred solitude and the beginning of a new chapter in my life, I am back to share thoughts. Thank you for your patience.
Here I present a thought that has been codifying in my mind and heart for some time now. I offer it to you simply as it is. Blessings.
In this episode our intrepid traveler meets The Emperor, The Hierophant, and The Lovers.
This is the first episode where I follow the Fool on his journey through the energies of the 21 other Major Arcana. In this episode The Fool meets The Magician, The High Priestess, and The Empress.
This is a discussion of ravens. Can you tell the difference between ravens and crows? How has the raven been seen in folklore, history, and mythology around the world? What does a raven mean as a power animal, or as a totem, or as a spirit animal? If you love ravens, this is an episode for you.