One against many. One versus innumerable odds. One stands and speaks what he knows to be true and right, in the face of all that would ridicule, and yes; even kill him. This “One” will draw others to him, some will be, as he is, most will not, for this one possesses courage!

Mr. Webster tells us that courage is; “Mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty.”

To the aforementioned, I agree, however, noble virtues, when practiced by a noble being are seldom categorized by definition. No, for most ingrained behavior is natural, and by its’ very nature defies categories and dissection. A man or woman in whom courage naturally resides would likely be at a loss to understand an observer’s excitement over any action, that to the courageous one’s view is his/her only course of action. When witnessed in a fellow, courage will bond the two, if these two share a cause or goal to which they may apply their combined traits, the results can be unlimited.

Our lore abounds with tales of heroes of unparalleled fortitude, each of which was a reflection of the Gods/Goddesses of our folk. When one of us shines at his or hers very best, then, so too do our Gods/Goddesses. Perhaps the days of valorous combat between two regal foes have passed, however, the need of bold, and noble souls has increased. Only the heart imbued with true courage will stand in these times of political correctedness and proclaim his ancestry, and faith in the so called “Old Gods.” Whom will keep his children at home to be educated, rather than indoctrinated to the ways of the herd? Who will say enough?! Who will cast aside the illness that fetters, through unnatural guilt, all the while promising “salvation”? Who will scorn the government men when they come to record pledges and conversions? Ask yourself these questions, ask them often. Become resolute in your stand, be of no small courage for small roots do not withstand floods.

Altered as it has become, to appease, history still shows the brutality done to those who would have none of a foreign bunch of laws designed to imprison men’s minds, hearts, and souls. Those whom employed that grand ruse are still very much in control of too many minds, hearts, and souls. So we come to the crux of the matter, how to awaken latent courage in a mass of folk estranged from their own heritage? How do we illuminate the wrongness of generation upon generation of dogma contrived to counter the very same goal we seek to achieve? How indeed!? Action! Courage! Deeds! Practice living courageously, others will see, speak your mind, educate where possible.

Greater words than these of mine surely have been written extolling the virtue of courage, never the less, be they profound, or simply rendered; they are only words. It falls upon you, the reader, to put action to the words.

The second of our “Noble Nine” illustrates the integral way in which these properties depend, and enhance one another. To be truthful in all things. First, and foremost apply this to thyself, for if there is any deception within there can be no real truth projected. How could there be? So be sure to have the courage to look to yourself and truly see what lies inside. In all dealings with folk, family and friends be forthright always. This honors the self and our Gods/Goddesses, when we honor them they do honor unto us. There is still room to be tactful in your dealings with others. Do not go about maliciously tearing folk down under the guise on honesty, only an ill soul would do such. Discussing the mechanics of honesty seems an over-statement of the absurdly obvious. In reality it is a course of action, a way to live that when applied diligently will bring difficulty, and the need for self-sacrifice, not to mention a balanced application of each of the “noble Nine” in consort. Often the only reward will be the self-realization of having done the right thing.

A lengthy list could be compiled, citing all the practical reasons for truthfulness in all you do, if you actually require such, may-hap you are journeying on the wrong path. Instinctually we desire to deal, and be dealt with honestly in all areas of life. Generations of programming have certainly dampened this instinct of right and true behavior, so allow me to pose just a few prime reasons for being an honest wight. Even scandalous louts can recognize honesty in someone’s character. When this trait is known in an individual, trust is given, where trust abides, progress, even victory will be gained.

The root of Germanic law is; “The might of right”. Where right action is evidenced, victory ensues! Doing right enhances personal, and group hamingja. A strong, healthy, and actively cared for hamingja increases one’s luck and probability of good fortune.

“To thine own self be true.” Yes, a derisive cliché more often than not nowadays, which is too bad because if we apply this axiom to our functioning life, moment by moment, the rewards may very well be incalculable. Ask yourself daily; “Am I doing my utmost to honor my Gods, my ancestors, as well as to edify my self, my folk?” Be Ye Honest!

The third on our list is arguably the litmus test for our every single function that we may ever perform. In your every thought and action, word and deed, be sure your conduct is honorable. My personal belief places this virtue at the core from which all others spring. Without honor no single virtue will stand in the face of criticism, let alone active persecution. If every one of us knew honor to be as precious as the very air we breathe, what or whom could possibly stand athwart our path? I do not recall the source of the following quote, I certainly claim no credit for it yet I offer it up here as I have altered it from the original usage of “Integrity” to my usage of; “honor is doing the right thing even when no one is looking.” Beautifully simple, but apparently very difficult to practice.

There are countless examples of dishonorable conduct just at a glance. I will use political campaign to drive home a point, the point being the depth of the illness that permeates this modern culture, here and the world over, however I am focusing on these United States. How many times can you call to mind the candidate of the moment vowing; “No New Taxes!?” “No Soft Money.” Sickening is it not? Yet those very same “Hucksters” go on to win the votes of the men and women that were deceived. The illness is not in being deceived, no! It is in failing to hold the deceivers accountable. If honor is not expected, demanded!, then why worry about lying to achieve personal interests? Why indeed! Honorable behavior must be demanded from the cradle to the grave. The demand has to be placed, first, upon the self, if this is to be the “Norm” as it once was, then children have to be raised accordingly, live each moment in accordance to the lessons you impart. We all are quick, and adept at pointing out the faults, and woes of folks just as quickly, we can spit out a “Sure Fire” remedy, yet fail to actually implement one into the only place we really have a reasonable expectation of success, our daily, personal lives! When one’s actions are right, true, and beyond reproach, then may one begin to focus their gaze outward in an effort to effect real progress for the folk.

As is true for so many commendable qualities, we recognize and laud them when witnessed in public figures, yet fail to emulate them. This seems to defy logic until viewed with an unflinching eye. Perhaps in the onslaught of foreign values disgorged by mass media a perverse switch has been made. In lieu of the genuine article, just vicariously experiencing admirable character placates, just enough, to squelch any real determination to be one of those worthy of admiration. As a people, we do not suffer any lack of heroes. What is lacking is the knowledge of the innumerable Athelings that we spring from. Honor entails accountability to one’s self, so before you attempt to correct, or enlighten another, be sure of your self-evaluation. The twenty-second stanza of the Havamal reads; “The wretch of mean disposition derides everything; he knows not, as he should, that he lacks not faults himself.”

Being honorable is a gift you can bestow upon yourself whose fruits will blossom for generations.

At the risk of being redundant I must bring the reader’s attention to the interdependency of these excellent nine virtues of ours. As the winning of the runes so affected Allfather, let the exercising of these virtues lead to higher virtues, a bedrock of virtuous living lead to valorous deeds, and so on.

In what, or whom do you place your belief? Your trust? Where does your loyalty abide. These questions will bring to mind what “Troth” is; “Odd”, you say, “To explain a thing with a question.” Not so odd at all. Regular queries of the self on these matters serve to strengthen and re-affirm just what is worthy of our troth.

This is not blind faith in some, “Pie in the sky” fairy tale, to be certain! Observe the forces at work in the natural world, quiet your mind and listen, feel, truly experience our Gods/Goddesses at work in and around you. Read the Eddas, investigate from every angle, the validity of what we true folk do in our moment-to-moment lives will sine through. Trust in the Gods of our pre-Christian ancestors was, and will be again, a way of living in harmony with the powers that formed, and continue to shape, all that is.

The historical facts of the myriad atrocities visited upon good men, women, and apple-cheeked children of our folk are no myth. Barbarous acts of torture were sanctioned by a meglomanical “Church” bent on being the preeminent political power in the known world. The failure, on the “Church’s” part, to eradicate the following of the true ways of our ancestors is testimony to the validity of the old way, the ancient way! Had the troth of our forebears been in vain it would surely have disappeared in the two thousand, plus, years that it has been under attack.

Be sure, as you’re able of the worthiness of those you would enter into troth with, be as vigilant in maintaining your own worthiness. Do not tread this path blind to the significance of who you are, indeed, tying yourself to. People wear many masks, some consciously, others not so much. It would behoove anyone contemplating a serious bond between themselves and others, to carefully observe the prospective person(s) for several months, minimum. Spend time together often, and in various situations. Let us “Leap ahead” and presume a bond of trust established, announced, and duly oathed. Human beings will be a source of both, irritation, and disappointment, it’s a fact; you yourself, at times will be “The burr under the saddle.” These are the times when real folk shine! Even though there may be a disagreement, or even disgruntlement, real folk allow one another to be themselves trusting in their bond, and that “Right” will win the day. I offer that; “Quitting is not an option.” If folks adopted that quote as policy, Ye Gods! Petty bickering, misdirected energy, virtually every conceivable obstacle would be as nothing! Cause troth to be your honor, and honor to be your troth.

Our fifth virtue is Strength; apply your knowledge of a tree to this character trait. People too; topple when their roots are withered.

As a folk, much of our fortitude is inherent to our genetic makeup. No, this is not racist propaganda; however, that we are a race under attack is undeniable. A great aid in this assault has been the lessening of our collective connection to our ancestors’ noble being, and our Gods/Goddesses. For many, their “Higher selves” are somewhat dormant; but not unlike muscle tissue, the aspects of our noble heritage and inheritance will grow stronger with use. Once again to stand out with distinction. Exercise your will to reclaim that indomitable force that is our folk soul!

Look to any group of folks labeled “Non-white”. You will find an abundance of encouragement for them to embrace their heritage, band together against their supposed oppressors of the moment, and to celebrate their uniqueness. Every race should pursue these activities with vigor and at no detriment to any other ethnic group. Why then are whites labeled as haters, and racists for attempting these very same pursuits? Please, do not become distracted here, the issue of, strength, in the context of our nine noble virtues. Building any lasting structure is made possible only by ensuring a sound foundation. Our forebears are our foundation. Learn all you may, intuit all you’re able about that bedrock; draw comparisons to your self, seek to recognize qualities within you that echo from our admirable roots.

Day to day living with our nine as a guide, or “Yard stick”, if you will, is the finest and foremost way to resurrect our birthright. If you have formally and solemnly chosen this walk, it is imperative that you re-integrate yourself with your higher self.

Small, quiet strength, like that of a minimum wage earner whom is given more change, from his purchase, than was correct. Upon realizing the error he returns the extra money to an amazed and appreciative cashier. That is huge! Flex your higher will, that is what the often, “Small quiet voice within” is. Educate yourself in areas germain to your present life and the goals set. Understand that strengths are both, great, and small. Consciously taking note that you are exercising a noble virtue at a given moment will increase growth, and enhance your strength.

Moving on to hospitality; the lore of our folk is resplendent with accolades being heaped upon the gracious host, not only in the hall does this apply. To be hospitable, is to be welcoming, creating an atmosphere of ease and harmony. At root, this is runic law in action. Willing to share your prosperity, be it monetary, or something less material is at heart in both, Gebo(), and Fehu ().

Being in accordance with runic forces is empowering to the extreme. In all that we do, remember to think runically, for the runes, the forces the stave shape represents, are an ever-present dynamic series of energies, that when realized and worked with, will enable one to achieve lofty goals.

Maintaining a day-to-day style of living that is supported and steered by “Our noble nine” is definitely a lofty goal, for it will be arduous! Take heart though, for there can be no victory without strife.

I really see no need for redundancy here; “What you have, share with like-minded FOLK. Know your Havamal and be not afraid to show the beggar your back.

Virtue seven, in part is taken for granted in this country in regards goods, and services. The once greatness this “America’ had was built by folks who were industrious personified!

We, as a folk need to work towards or goals, both personal, and collective with a passion and drive that allows only for success. Today is a time of instant gratification and “To Hel with the consequences.” That is the mind-set that needs to be overcome, to do so will require the Living of Our Nine Noble Virtues.

The work of self-growth and improvement must be met with the same fervor that we attack all our goals. Half hearted attempts cannot reasonably be expected to yield full rewards. Use that which Allfather has bestowed upon you, think beyond perceived limitations and find new ways to conquer your challenges. Inspire others to do great deeds, by doing great deeds. Philosophy is fine, but absent deeds, it is meaningless babble. Apply yourself diligently to all you strive for. Fear not hard work for your road is a difficult one.

Our eighth virtue is so simple it has been rendered complex! This noble trait is nearly interchangeable with the preceding one. To be self reliant, once, long ago this facet of character was the very definition of the stalwart men and women who created this union of states. From top to bottom, modern society has created, “Specialists” for nearly everything under Sunna. People have lost the pride that ensues when one is sufficient unto his or her own needs. This pride must be resurrected!

Television has been an enormous force in the erosion of the rugged individualism that our ancestors admired, and knew. Through fire, flood and famine our folk relied upon themselves. Banding together is a group/clan practice of self-reliance so the group remains free of strange values and mores being foisted upon them. Learn to do those tasks that you pay someone not of the folk to perform. Look for businesses that are folk oriented when needs are beyond your current capacity to fulfill. TEACH your children how to do for themselves. Truly; “Knowledge is Power.”

That “Perseverance” rounds out this list of nine is fitting. You will find, I truly hope, that it is a Thorian task to live these virtues moment by moment, and so it should be albeit tenacity over the years, will win the day.

Look at the statistics these days for failed marriages, in a most sacred area of life there appears to be little, or no perseverance. So I suggest targeting the “smaller” areas first; raise children accordingly, after repeated success at seeing a task through to completion, tackle ever more difficult projects. Each of “These Nine” are fine qualities on their own, but need to be exercised always as an integral part of a larger tapestry, of which we take a part in the weaving, of that which is yet to be. Had I not doggedly persevered I’d have never completed this work, I am neither scholar, nor an academic so I shall rest my weary pen.