Mind the Present
How Myth Can Inspire Action
One of my favorite myths is the ones surrounding Odin in the Aesir pantheon. The Norse Mythologies are more unique because the gods are constantly on the lookout for the signs that lead up to Ragnorok. Odin, the All-Father, supposedly hung himself in a tree and sacrificed an eye to gain wisdom, and uses two Ravens, Huginn and Munnin, to help him look for the end of the world. While I’m not an expert on Aesir Mythology, I love the idea that the two ravens represent, commonly referred to as knowledge and memory.
It is said that every morning, the ravens left to fly the nine realms to look for the signs of the end of the world. Every night, the ravens would return to tell Odin of what they saw. The analogy of knowledge and wisdom that Odin represents is telling. The people who worshipped the Aesir understood the importance of information when it came to waging war. Specifically, the three parts of knowledge: past, present, and future.
Huginn and Munnin have fascinating ideas associated with them. Popular translations assign the idea of “thought” and “memory”. Odin, along with his ravens, represents the three parts of knowledge. Remember the past, search for trends, and understand your position as well as your opponent. Seek to understand what has been. Think of the possibilities and outcomes of actions and the environment. Planning is an essential part of preparing for the future. Know what is happening now in your environment, be present with mindfulness, too much thought about the future or remembrance of the past leaves you lost in the present. Always be aware of your current situation and position.
Understand the past, plan for the future, be aware of the present.
This is what the Odin myth can teach us: you don’t need to be a pagan to appreciate the value of what the stories of the Aesir can teach you. Granted, there are many other examples throughout the world and many other beliefs that teach this same concept. This one is one of my favorites.
Mike Black
Skills are the foundation of preparedness.
That was very interesting and something to definitely ponder. Thanks!