So yeah, today’s practice was digging into Asatro. Honestly? Knew jack squat about it beyond Viking movies. Started by Googling like crazy – total information overload. Saw Thor’s hammer symbols everywhere, but what does it actually mean? Felt like chasing ghosts.
The Lightbulb Moment
Realized Asatro ain’t some ancient rulebook. It’s modern folks connecting with old Norse spirits, gods, and land. No pope, no single “right” way. Just people trying to live respectfully. Blew my mind – thought it was all about screaming at clouds and sacrificing goats! Turns out? Mostly about honoring ancestors and nature cycles.
Trying the “Respect” Thing Myself
Decided to test this “respect” angle. Made a small altar in my messy backyard corner:
- Grabbed a sturdy rock (figured it could handle bad weather).
- Placed one apple from my fridge – figured Freya or Idun might appreciate it.
- Poured spring water into a mug instead of fancy mead – practical, right?
- Said thanks out loud for the sunshine that day. Felt awkward talking to air.
No chanting, no robes. Just stood there quietly for five minutes. Weirdly peaceful, even if it seemed silly.
Where I Stumbled
Got stuck on the gods. Thor? Odin? Freyja? Feels like memorizing a fantasy novel. Tried reading one saga – brain switched off after two sentences. Screw that. Maybe I’ll learn them slowly, through stories people tell today.
Modern vs Ancient stuff tripped me up too. Real Asatro folks adapt rituals for apartments, not just snowy mountains. My backyard offering? Probably not “historical.” But hey, it’s my practice, right?
Why It Stuck With Me
It’s that raw connection to nature they talk about. After leaving the apple, I actually noticed the birds pecking at it later. Felt… grounded. Less like worshipping, more like acknowledging “hey world, you’re kinda awesome.”
Still confused half the time. Probably pissed off Odin already by forgetting his dad’s uncle’s cousin twice removed. But that’s practice – messy, personal, and always learning. No gatekeepers. Just me, some old stories, and whatever the hell feels true.
