Dear Pagan Brother / Sister:

I am sitting here very unhappy for having to send emails out to my Pagan brothers and sisters of the web like this one, but felt I better sieze the opportunity while my internet connection is still set up and functioning.

I am Wiccan, and proud to say so. However, it hasn't come without grave consequences to me, and I am suffering as a result of my choice of path. I have been discriminated against by a couple of employers in the last two years, and now they are giving me really crummy employment references just because of my religious path (though they won't admit to it, being the cowards that they are). One previous employer of mine literally told me at the time of my termination, "I refuse to financially support a devil worshipper, and you are one sick yuppy. Get the hell out and don't bother arguing the point." Unfortunately, this person lied on the paperwork and just marked down "Failed to meet minimum company qualifications." Since it was a verbal attack, it can't be prosecuted very easily without a good lawyer and lots of money to pay for legal help.

What I am asking for is whether you can afford to help me out with whatever means you may have. My kids, wife and I are about to lose our home and utilities because we can't pay them any longer, and the internet connection is about to go next. Financial help of any kind is so very much appreciated right now and you may never know the thankfulness I have in my heart for your help. I would also like for you to forward this email to any other Pagan friends you may have, as I can't possibly get very many out on my own, and there are many who have sent me scornful emails in return, calling me a sick leach and a beggar, and that I've made my own bed and now I must sleep in it. This has hurt me so bad knowing some feel this way, as it isn't my fault that I now can't get a good year-round job of any type mainly because my previous employers are harming my chances by giving unfavorable references.

I am not begging, just asking for temporary help by any of you who truly care. If you are a Pagan lawyer who can help me, please contact me. I can use any help I can get at the moment, and since this can happen to anyone of Pagan custom, this isn't just about me.

Some folks would try to scam you out of money and help by setting up a front. But I despise such activity and am asking you outright. I am even going out on a major limb and giving out my true name in this email, because frankly I don't think any more damage could be done to me.

I hate to say it, but this Witch is soon to be homeless without some type of help by any loving souls who are willing to help me through this horrifying time in my life. This isn't easy asking, but after experiencing this form of discrimination and defamation, I felt obligated to ask. Ask not, receive not... and I do so without hiding and in truth.

IF you are willing to help me, please send what you can. Every little bit helps, even small monthly amounts if you feel it is best. Moneywise, you may send any help to me, Kurt Schanaman, P.O. Box xxxx, xxxxxxxxxxx, Nebraska, xxxxx

If you are willing and able to provide legal help, please contact me by email at xxxxxxxxxx@hotmail.com And once I get back on my feet, any money that is left over will, with your permission, go to starting an organization of my own to help other Pagans, as I will be eternally indebted to any of you who have helped me in my serious time of need. This same thing can happen to ANY Pagan individual, and I want to be there for any of you who may go through anything this severe in the future, and want them to be able to ask for the help without feeling guilty, or being called a 'leach' or a 'beggar', because after dealing with this problem myself, I know better than that and they shouldn't have to feel this way.

Thank you so much, Brother/Sister, for at least reading this and contemplating this email. And if you would like to keep in touch, I have ICQ and would love to have you on my list. I am hoping I can remain online so I may keep in touch... because money isn't all anyone needs ... but LOVE and FRIENDSHIP are what truly sustain life :o) The number is 8439599. Feel free to add me. Brightest Blessings to you always!