As a Slavic settler on Turtle Island, my journey began in Slovakia, where I spent my first 16 years. My family and I then moved to what is now known by a settler name as the Greater Toronto Area in Canada. This land holds deep historical and ongoing significance as the traditional territory of several Indigenous nations, including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee, and the Wendat peoples. My respect and acknowledgment for these communities and their enduring connection to this land are an important part of my journey here.

My journey as a Slavic settler on Turtle Island, which began in a small town in Slovakia, has been a path of deep cultural and spiritual exploration. In Slovakia, my upbringing was steeped in Christian traditions, imparted by my grandparents. This early exposure to Catholic beliefs shaped my initial understanding of religion/spirituality.

Upon immigrating to the Greater Toronto Area in Canada, my spiritual perspective began to evolve. During my university years, I transitioned from Catholicism to atheism. However, this phase of my life was not the end of my spiritual journey. Intrigued by accounts of near-death experiences, I delved deeper into the realm of spirituality. This exploration was not just inward but also extended to the rich and diverse cultures around me.

Living in Canada, I became increasingly aware of the history and culture of the Indigenous Peoples. Learning about their spiritual beliefs prompted a reconnection with my own ancestral roots, leading me to discover more about Slavic paganism and the pre-Christian beliefs of my ancestors. This exploration revealed a history often obscured or overlooked in my early education.

In Slovakia, figures like Cyril and Methodius, Christian missioners, also known as the "Apostles to the Slavs", were celebrated for bringing Christianity and a new alphabet. However, the narrative completely omitted the forceful nature of Christianization and the suppression of old Slavic beliefs. Many pagan practices, though still observed during my childhood, such as the drowning of Morena, were not fully explained or understood. These practices, often discouraged by the church, gradually diminished.

This journey of rediscovery has been enlightening, revealing the biases in the histories I was taught (not only in relation to my heritage but world history) and the rich spiritual tapestry of my Slavic heritage. This understanding has become a crucial part of my identity and continues to shape my perspective on spirituality and cultural heritage.

I am deeply grateful for the opportunities my new home has provided, yet I find myself longing for the cultural connections and community of my homeland. To bridge this gap, I've established a forum for individuals with similar experiences and interests to share and connect. In Slovakia, the majority of the population still adheres to predominantly Catholic religion, and the term 'Pagan' is often viewed negatively. However, there's a growing interest in neo-paganism, particularly among the younger generation, who are keen to explore the beliefs of our ancestors.

While I don't claim to be an expert in this field, my journey is one of continuous learning and discovery. I have a personal connection to this path through the practices that were still observed during my childhood, the myths and stories narrated by my grandparents, and the rich tapestry of Slovak fairytales. 

Creating this forum and resource is my way of reconnecting with the practices of my ancestors. My hope is that it will not only serve as a valuable tool, and others who are on a similar journey of discovery but also help build a community and keep the practices and beliefs for the next generation, including my children. My hope is to teach my children about their roots, Slavic spiritual beliefs and respect for all people. 

Paganism, with its deep reverence for nature, offers a valuable perspective in today's world, particularly in addressing environmental concerns. This spiritual path emphasizes living in harmony with the Earth, recognizing the sacredness in all aspects of the natural world. Such beliefs can inspire more sustainable living practices, fostering a sense of interconnectedness with our environment. Spirituality also encourages not only embracing your own roots but studying wisdoms of other communities. This inclusive approach can help build stronger, more respectful communities, united in their efforts to protect our planet and honor the diversity of all its inhabitants.

Finally, as a Slavic settler on Turtle Island, I recognize the privileges I hold and believe that a true spiritual journey encompasses not only exploring my ancestral beliefs but also understanding the history and ongoing impacts of colonization, as well as the critical importance of reconciliation. This journey involves a deep dive into the complexities of colonization and racism, including how they intersect with the resurgence of neo-paganism and the potential appropriation of other cultural and spiritual practices. In light of this, my aim is to ensure that this forum remains conscientious and respectful in its approach to adopting practices and adapts humility.