If you don't believe there's magic in the world, you haven't been outside much.

Freyja, a noble goddess of the Vanir clan, journeys to Asgard to unite two warring factions of gods. She brings prosperity, love, and fertility to the realms of mortals and deities alike. Deep within the spiritual worlds, she masters seidr, a potent magic of fate and prophecy, eventually teaching these ancient secrets to Odin himself.

When conflict erupts, Freyja claims her place as a fierce commander of war. She rides into battle in a chariot pulled by cats, donning a falcon cloak to fly between realms. As the fighting ends, she splits the fallen warriors with Odin, guiding her half to the heavenly halls of Folkvangr while carrying her prized Brisingamen necklace.

The blood that pumps through our veins is a river of heritage, of strength, and of unyielding will. This is the very essence of the warrior spirit that defines our ancestors, a spirit we carry forward today in our fight for preservation. The wolves, the ravens, the mighty figure on the throne; they are symbols of the wisdom, cunning, and raw power that forged our people. We stand on the shoulders of giants. Let their strength be our guide as we ensure our heritage endures for generations to come. This is the struggle for our people, for our future, and for our children.

Over the past year, our Persian Connection podcast has made waves in the sphere; the culmination of years of research discovering the who, why & how of Axiality.

Still some reject the Theory, mainly due to bias. While looking for clips for an upcoming project, I stumbled upon a gem from 40-years-ago, from Zoroastrians stating literally the same thing; albeit positivly from their point of view.

Even Zoroastrians recognize the reality of the Persian Connection Theory. So the naysayers are either ignorant of history, or deliberately being misleading, to protect that which destroyed ancestral faiths.

Then Freydis exclaimed: ‘Hand me an axe!’ This was done, and she went towards the five women and slay them. They returned to their house after this wicked deed and it was apparent that Freydis was well content with her work. She addressed her companions, saying: ‘If it is ordained for us to come to Greenland, I shall kill any man who speaks of these events. We will say that they were alive when we left."

Kindreds

Something I'd like to talk about today is kindreds, how important they are to have, to be part of, and to keep alive.

Every single member plays a role. Some teach, some organize, some cook, some bring laughter, some quietly help behind the scenes… but one of the simplest and most important things every member can do is respond to an invitation or RSVP to an event. That one small act means more than most people realize. It helps those organizing blóts, moots, and gatherings know how to prepare, how much food to bring, and what to expect. It also lets them know they're not standing alone.

Having led a kindred for as long as I have, I've been through it all. We've had a rowdy kindred, a sober kindred, times when it was mostly men, and now we're blessed with many families and children. A kindred changes over the years, just like the people within it. Seasons come and go, and every season has something to teach us.

One of the greatest lessons I've learned is to adapt.

I hold events with no expectations and try not to take anything personally. If people don't show up, that's okay. I've learned to choose places where, if I ended up alone, I would still enjoy being there. It could be somewhere I can hike, meditate, sit quietly, or simply enjoy a meal. The journey is still worthwhile.

I also know it's a huge step for someone to walk into a kindred for the very first time. For many, it's the beginning of a spiritual journey. It can be intimidating. Because of that, I try to give people grace.

I never miss a blót. Holding blóts is just as important for me as it is for those who attend. It keeps me connected to the Gods, to my ancestors, and to the path I've chosen to walk. If one person comes, wonderful. If twenty come, wonderful. The offering is still made.

Meeting regularly has been one of the greatest gifts our kindred has received. Those gatherings have created friendships that feel like family. They have strengthened our bonds in ways I never imagined. By the time our next moot comes around, I'm ready for it. I miss everyone. There is something deeply healing about spending time with people who understand your path without explanation.

It's food for the soul. We recharge not only through the Gods and Goddesses, but through one another. We watch children grow up. We celebrate births, weddings, accomplishments, and milestones. We help carry each other through loss and hardship. We laugh together, learn together, and continue building something that will outlive all of us.

There truly is no better feeling. So this is my encouragement to all of you.

Gather more, help more, reach out more, and show up when you can. Make the effort. 

Become part of something bigger than yourself.

Build a community that is there for one another, not just during celebrations, but through all of life's seasons.

Do it for yourself.
Do it for your family.
Do it for those who will come after us.

That is how traditions survive, how kindreds become family and why we are here.

Harvala Heathor Clinkenbeard
Raven Folk United

⚡️ ravenfolkunited.org