Path of Gaia

By E.P. Long, for the Wolven bloodline.

Description

This path is the practice of the Gaia theory. The Earth is viewed as a macro-organism (a Celestine in Lupine theology) or a god. Humanity is murdering the mother goddess, and through it, itself. The followers of this path attempt to correct the damages done, by changing humanity's habits to a more natural lifestyle. Nature is viewed as the ultimate authority by those on this path, although they tend to idealise Nature. Still, for some, it is harsh and cruel.

Ethics of the Path

• Nature is the source of morality. Evil and Good are determined by their effects on the ecosystem. The Mother is the source of life and the object of respect.
• Life is the most valuable commodity. Still, death is natural and necessary. The life of the Mother is more important than the life of the individual
• Human virtues like honour and love are secondary to the principles of life, balance, and death, but are still worthwhile.

History

This path originated with Lupine theology, and has been modified by current ecological and feminist theory. It smacks too much of the Weaver for most Lupus and Metis lupines, but it is quite popular among the Homid breeds and Kinfolk. Some Gangrel who were slipping over to the Beast have also began to follow this path.

Current Practices

There is little in the way of formal ritual, although some used modified Native American or Wicca rituals to venerate the Earth Mother. Many kinfolk use actual Lupine ceremonies to celebrate Gaia.

Description of Followers

Most tend to be activists and usually have little political or economic power. This theory is not compatible with authoritarian or capitalist models. Many tend to be vocal, but often fail to follow the tenants of the path when it involves themselves.

Hierarchy of Sins

10	Living beyond your natural span
9	Killing for any reason other than survival or mercy
8	Unnatural and uneven division of power, based upon gender.
7	Repressing your natural instincts
6	Excessive materialism or consumption
5	Acts of unnecessary cruelty
4	Failing to fight the Wyrm's minions
3	Failing to prevent the Apocalypse
2	Consorting with the Wyrm
1	Desecrating Gaia

Views about Other Paths

Caine: They use patriarchal, eurocentric, pseudo-Nietschian philosophy to justify their own wyrm-traits. They are so vulnerable, because they cannot see the Beast has infested their every action.

Cathari: They see the physical/spiritual split. But they are mistaken to assume that the material is evil. This error is used as an excuse for their destructive materialism

Death and the Soul: This path is a perversion of our most sacred beliefs

Evil Revelations: The path of the Wyrm -- destroy its believers

Harmony: They are close to us, but their lack of spiritual belief prevents them from grasping the harmony of Gaia.

Honorable Accord: This path is one of noble actions, masking base deeds. This may be the malaise of many Garou. It is a false path.

Power and the Inner Voice: This is the voice of raw instinct. Unfortunately, intelligence corrupts raw instinct and makes it contrary to Gaia's will.

Paradox: The strange followers of this path seek to cure the Weaver of its madness. Will they have enough time, before the Wyrm devours us all?

Typhon: Path of the hydra wyrm. It may destroy us all.

Do's and Don'ts

1	Take no more than you need
2	Fight against the despoiling of the planet
3	Enhance your own spirituality by communing with nature
4	Take no action to harm Gaia
5	Do not usurp your place in Nature
6	Respect your instincts but be responsible for the consequences
7	You are emotional
8	Humanity, Garou, and Kindred all hold a place in Gaia
9	Beware of the Weaver's encroachment
10	Use your intelligence, as well as your instincts