From the beginning of my Pagan journey, even before that actually, I've been interested in the Greek Gods. Their stories are as varied as the characters, and there's something very human about them. They have joys and sorrows, embarassments, failures and triumphs just like we do. Back in grade 7 I found the most amazing book of myths in my school's library with a full sized family tree in the front cover pages. I took that book out soooo many times that year and I even did my oral on some of the Greek Gods. The one who grabbed my attention most strongly and has held it since is Artemis.
Artemis is the daughter of Zues and the Titan Leto, twin older sister to Apollo, goddess of the hunt, wild places and animals, young girls, childbirth (for aiding in the delivery of her brother) and later became associated with the moon (in some places/traditions replacing Selene). She is known for her love of freedom, her skill with a bow, her virginity and her swift punishment against those who cross her (though to be fair, most of the Greek Gods are quick to punish those who cross them). She was good friends with the hunter Orion who she was tricked into killing by her brother Apollo (at least that's one version of the story), and was much loved throughout wide areas of the ancient world. Her temple was one of the Seven Wonders and someday I'm going to get there and leave an offering, even though there's only one column left standing.
What draws me most to her is her individuality, her 'doing it my way or no way' attitude, and her insistence that she be treated as an equal to her brother Apollo and the other Gods. I wouldn't say that Artemis is a feminist, I wont presume to know her mind, but she's become an icon for some of us. Aretmis is a warrior; She doesn't look for fights but fiercely protects what's hers. She doesn't hesitate to punish those who wrong her, as I said earlier, but she can also be a helpful deity. She sided with the Trojans during their war and is known in several myths to help those abandoned or oppressed. That speaks to me as well.
When I'm looking for the strength to make the hard decisions, I look to Artemis. When I'm looking for inspiration to stand up and speak out against inequality and injustice, I let Artemis guide my words. If I knew more about the Hellenic way of doing things I'd figure out how to 'properly' honour her on a regular basis, but as it is I dont' really have any guidance. Plus, my views as a soft polytheist (all deities are reflections and part of one larger divine presence) doesn't work with hardcore Hellenic Reconstructionism. Still, it's worth investigating!
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