As Heathens, we treasure the Nine Noble Virtues. Whatever our relationship with the Gods and other validt tie may be, the Virtues can be a much needed foothold, guideposts to being a better human. It isn't so much for leaving behind a name, a reputation that never dies, but being a good person is a praiseworthy goal in and of itself. At the very least, becoming strong in the Virtues is a way to thank the Ancestors. It is a way to show the Gods and wights what we make of the gifts they have given us.
It costs, though.
Today, I had to give my honor muscles an intense workout. I had to make a stand, and I had to do among people who are just as damaged, just as ill, as I am. But I couldn't keep silent. I used as much compassion and empathy as I could, but I had to call out people for their racism and ignorance of actual military sacrifice, their willful overlooking of the dignity and suffering of others because they were "tired of hearing about it" and annoyed that their televised entertainment was momentarily used to promote mindfulness.
And it hurts. I feel like I kicked a wounded animal. Not everyone with a wrong-headed opinion is malicious or intends harm
I spoke up in the face of wrongdoing. It hurt. I prayed to Tyr for the best words and actions. I am still praying to be better able to manage this. I feel sorrow for the necessity, disappointment in the actions of those who I thought understood being marginalized, "profiled," and dismissed as lesser.
It was quite a workout for the honor muscles. I don't think that it gets easier.
i thank you Tyr, for Your example. I thank you for the challenge. "In all things, give thanks." Even the pain, my Lord of Temples, even this is a blessing. I praise the Guiding Star, the Leavings of the Wolf, may you ever be praised.
It costs, though.
Today, I had to give my honor muscles an intense workout. I had to make a stand, and I had to do among people who are just as damaged, just as ill, as I am. But I couldn't keep silent. I used as much compassion and empathy as I could, but I had to call out people for their racism and ignorance of actual military sacrifice, their willful overlooking of the dignity and suffering of others because they were "tired of hearing about it" and annoyed that their televised entertainment was momentarily used to promote mindfulness.
And it hurts. I feel like I kicked a wounded animal. Not everyone with a wrong-headed opinion is malicious or intends harm
I spoke up in the face of wrongdoing. It hurt. I prayed to Tyr for the best words and actions. I am still praying to be better able to manage this. I feel sorrow for the necessity, disappointment in the actions of those who I thought understood being marginalized, "profiled," and dismissed as lesser.
It was quite a workout for the honor muscles. I don't think that it gets easier.
i thank you Tyr, for Your example. I thank you for the challenge. "In all things, give thanks." Even the pain, my Lord of Temples, even this is a blessing. I praise the Guiding Star, the Leavings of the Wolf, may you ever be praised.