Hey there heresy!

It has been a bit over a month now since my resignition from the church was handled and made official. Life as a pagan has not been all that different.

What are the practical differences in my life right now?

1. I can't become a godmother to anyone anymore. But those two blessed children that I already have been assigned to, will keep receiving my material godmotherly guidance going forward.

2. I can't get married in a church. Unless my future spouse is a member. Doubt it.

3. I will save somewhat 400€ next year on church taxes. Yay, cash - book a flight where to?

4. My mailbox isn't filled with the church newspaper anymore on every Wednesday. Wonderful, this should save at least one tree per year!

5. I won't have the right to vote in the church elections. Uh, and never did...

To be honest with you, being a well-brought-up G-d-fearing Lutheran girl, I did let my mind wander... Does this make me a bad person? Will G-d hate me now? Shall I go to hell? How can I go to a church to a friend's wedding now?

All these thoughts were utter bullsh*t. Yesterday alone, 296 Finnish people made the same decision as I did and resigned. I don't feel any different now. Not being a member of the church doesn't stop me from e.g....

"treat others as one would like others to treat oneself"

or living up to any other values that by common sense are considered good. Ugh, the Nordic pagan shiksa has spoken and will go on to celebrate Yule with her family and loved-one while wearing a hamsa around her neck. Hold the ham, though.