I will never understand why Nations will go to war over religious differences. When I first began my studies, I learned to the victor goes the spoils. But as I dug deeper I learned that sometimes that is not always the case. The Northern Europeans had to face a fact of life. After a life time of war it dawned on them that if the war continued both nations would be extinct. Their God's were strong and faith was never lost in their abilities. Unlike today genocide was not an option so a truce was called.

The Gods of Asgard made peace with the Vanir, unlike in fairy stories that end And they all lived happily ever after, The End. To the contrary this was the beginning of a whole new Mythology. The fact that the Gods still had their enemies and petty differences tells us that even though the Northern Europeans blended they're social and economical structure they did not live in a picture perfect society.

Enter the Hero. As a rule he would have a God for a father and a mortal for a mother. Not so hard to believe when you think about it. His dilemma, never really fitting in. The Gods don't fully welcome him and the mortals are jealous of him. But because he is the underdog everyone can rally around him.

In my early teens I had a hard time getting all the myths straight. Aa far as I was concerned why should I have to read about past gods and dead heroes. Myths were stories that had magic and I wanted to do magic. Not only that but I fought the fact that before I could even do my first incantation I had to read a book called the Poetic Edda. Half way through I had to go back to the beginning because I realized that the most powerful spells and clues to others were nestled in the verses.

I look back now and realize that the only way our Elders could be sure information of their time lived on was to incorporate their secrets with current events. Faith is a funny thing every one wants it. But there is nothing like that in your face look at me now attitude if you can prove your belief is for real. Holy relics and archlogical digs may work for some. For me its stepping outside on my porch and looking out over the open field. When I lived in the city it was the same, granted I over looked a concrete jungle and had to wait till night fall to enjoy its full beauty.

Now I enter the hardest part of my studies. When I was younger I felt that there is so much to learn and I did not have time to teach. I would always say "those who can do those who cant't teach". Now I know that I am only as good as my worst student. My mentor of course had another way of saying it but I like this way better.

May the light shine on your path.

The Silver Shadow

Books of Interest:

The Hero With A Thousand Faces -- Mythical Structure in Fiction Writing