The Hávamál is one of the poems of the Poetic Edda. It sets out a set of guidelines for wise
living and survival. The Hávamál
consists of a number of poems, which shift in tone and tenor and narrative
position. Numerous English translations
exist of the text.
Stanza 57
Original :
Brandr af brandi
brinn unz brunninn er
funi kveykisk af funa
maðr af manni
verðr at máli kuðr
en til dœlskr af dul
Brandr af brandi
brinn unz brunninn er
funi kveykisk af funa
maðr af manni
verðr at máli kuðr
en til dœlskr af dul
Communities are strengthened by
having a variety of voices and interpretations. Differences and
disagreements are not only part of human nature, they’re what makes a community
strong. Any group that does not question itself is going to stagnate.
There can be many challenges to walking this Path and many divisions in
the road to choose, but there is a growing Pagan Community out there. The growing number of children in the Pagan
community has lead some groups to open their rituals to families and youth,
adjusting some practices that may not have been appropriate or accessible for
young people.
In
some traditions, Pagans pass on traditions and lore to children through
trainings and camps, a form of spiritual education common in many religions. In
her book, Circle Round, Pagan leader Starhawk outlines practical tools and
lessons for conveying Pagan traditions to children, as well as for raising Pagan
families.
And
even if you are not out of the 'broom closet', there are many ways to kindle
others. Online communities, such as
Witchvox, can be done with a different name to remain anonymous. Sharing comments on blogs can be done unsigned,
feel free to do so below. And many Pagan
publications can be written under a pen name, such as Circle Magazine, to share
thoughts.
We
can’t gain wisdom by speaking into an echo chamber. We learn by speaking with
those who see things differently than we do.