Poll #3 - Who knows you're Asatru?

How many people know about your choice of Asatru as a religion?

Comment on this poll.

Results

How many people know about your choice of Asatru as a religion?

17% None, I keep it private.
34% Only my friends.
25% Many people, including parents, relatives, and co-workers.
13% Just about everybody I know.
8% The whole world, I even give out my name and address.

1351 responses.

Guðfreður Georg Árnason Wednesday, February 13, 2013, 11:20:32 PST
I live in Greece, a country, so far from Ísland or any other country of Norse culture.

Larz Magnus Monday, January 07, 2013, 20:26:48 PST

Vidar's Gothi Saturday, October 20, 2012, 18:33:01 PDT
As a matter of practicality, I don't volunteer the information until I know someone or until asked directly. There are still too many hostiles in the majority. My preference is to win everyone over with with respect for me as a person and then let them know. It makes it harder for them to discount me as some nut.

Gudrid Hanssottir Monday, September 03, 2012, 17:51:18 PDT
I make no secret of my beliefs. I don't go around advertising but I wear hammer and amber daily and will speak freely to whomever asks.

Nurture Tuesday, June 21, 2011, 04:08:35 PDT
I do not hide my religion, but nor do I feel the need to introduce myself as 'Hi. My name is Nurture. I'm Asatru.' If the subject comes up, it comes up. If it doesn't, it doesn't.

Rich Friday, June 18, 2010, 15:35:45 PDT

troy Tuesday, March 23, 2010, 07:53:03 PDT
iam proud of my culture

Aedan Bagsecg Saturday, January 30, 2010, 11:39:51 PST

Thorvald Ulfsson (Robert Ireland) Saturday, December 12, 2009, 18:54:52 PST
My son has continued the struggle while incarcerated, bringing together other kindred and getting Asatru recognized in the Federal BOP including the incorporation of a communal firepit for worship and boar (pork) added to the BOP menu where he was incarcerated in Oregon and California much to the displeasure of Muslims and Hebrews. His actions have helped to expand our kindred's ability to worship ourgods and brought honor upon the Gods and our family. Hail Odin, Hail Thor and blessings upon the Aesir

A. Jeffrey Dodd Thursday, December 10, 2009, 13:49:35 PST
I am interested in Asatru, and Anglo-Saxon Heathenism. Can you give me an opinion as to the The Fellowship of Anglo-Saxon Heathenry? I want to get in touch with the gods of my people. Is the Asatru Folk Assembly a better path?

Sally Sunday, November 15, 2009, 11:08:29 PST
No one asks

Kamen Wednesday, October 21, 2009, 17:40:43 PDT
Okay. I'm not into germanic paganism. I would like to wear Mjolnir as a symbol of my heritage,not belief. I am Christian. Is this too conflicting to either belief?

Bjorn Sunday, April 12, 2009, 10:21:12 PDT
I understand why some keep it hidden. Where I live many people don't give jobs to those who wear a pentacle but the hammer isn't widely known. If asked about it I tell them what it is but it never goes any further, they either walk off or say'Oh ok.' and then walk off. In a land that hasn't learned from their past mistakes why would past mistakes in religion be any different?

Ilska Thorradottir Sunday, March 01, 2009, 21:22:45 PST
mckellarsarah@hotmail.com Feel free to email me, no idiots, christians wanting to convert me (if the 5 christian schools I was forced to attend didn't work, neither will your words.) or spam.

G Thursday, January 29, 2009, 01:39:57 PST
Who knows I'm Asatru? Only the people that I want them to know. Considering family, if you have one that is so rotten like mine, no I guess not. Anyway I'm proud to say that I am from the Asatru belief. Maybe an answer to the question: why are so many Christianists reacting on this? In times past they tried to exterminate our belief because they found it was too "primitive". Well they tried and they failed. Terribly. Now you see who is stronger, Christian chruches are running empty and the Asatru belief is reviving and growing. Too bad for you my Christian fellow man. The Asatru do not force their belief onto others, maybe that's why it will last longer.

Mike Tuesday, November 25, 2008, 16:05:37 PST
Why are so many Christianists commenting on this?

Emily Tuesday, November 25, 2008, 15:58:50 PST
@ Torrstein: You know, some people may "keep it quiet" to avoid breaking their family apart, and family is important to all Asatruars. "Keeping it quiet" is not the same as being ashamed; a person can be proud quietly. If someone attacks Paganism or our faith, you can stand up beliefs without outing yourself. You show pride by living your faith, not by instigating arguments with close-minded people.

Sarah Tuesday, November 25, 2008, 15:53:44 PST
Whoops, I meant: I don't think they WOULD understand.

Sarah Tuesday, November 25, 2008, 15:51:57 PST
My friends and parents know I'm a "pagan" but they don't know what brand. They don't ask, so I keep it quiet; I don't think they understand.

odwinn wulframsson Wednesday, May 07, 2008, 17:16:27 PDT
all who know me know well what i do. my dad had a hard time with it at 1st. but he has asked me all the good questions. and is real cool with it now. he thought it was some sort of new age type of thing.. he knows my ove of the gods. and of history. heck last year he gave me a Thors hammer and he bought me a nice sword. and also has written happy Odins day or whatever..and thats a direct qt.lol most who know me are cool w/my lifes path. and my troth

Torrstein Friday, February 08, 2008, 12:54:59 PST
I am so tired of people treating Asatru as a disease. What is with all the "Only my best friend/girlfriend/butt-buddy/this fella at work knows about it, they're kinda close-minded and I don't wanna piss 'em off..." crap?! Asatru is not AIDS and is not for cowards! If people are not proud of these beliefs and not prepared to defend them, no matter the cost, then they do not belong here. They need to find a nice pacifist religion where they are not required to explain or stand up for their beliefs and stop spitting on Asatru through their own inactions. The thought of spineless sheep like this reminds me of one of the many reasons why I left Christianity. Think for yourself and fight for your people. Our pride and willingness to fight to death for our beliefs and kindred is what sets us apart from every other cookie cutter, country club religion out there. Every feeble word muttered and strained breath taken by these people are insults to Asatru. Has our strength and pride already turned into feeble pacifism? If we are to have any hope of returning the fire of The Gods to the blood of Norsemen, we will require proud, sure footed men and women, not the spineless "grab my ankles" cowards that are so hesitant about standing up for their beliefs. If you can't take the storms, get off the ship. -Torrsten

Randgrith Halfdansdottir Sunday, November 04, 2007, 09:36:13 PST
Pretty much everyone I'm close to knows, including my mom's church (which is actually really open-minded about it), but I also don't "preach" my beliefs... I don't want to give us the same reputation as the Xtians, lol.

Raziel Eld'gereth Friday, October 26, 2007, 15:01:37 PDT
i only tell my most closest of kin and my troth. my mum also knows.

Noel Saturday, October 13, 2007, 05:27:29 PDT
I feel that if I believe this strongly about my way of life I am going to let everyone out there know about it.

nana Friday, October 05, 2007, 13:37:54 PDT
I do not follow asatru. My cousin has denouced the only true and living GOD,Jesus Christ. I was just wandering if that is part of asatru initiations.

Torcuil Sunday, August 26, 2007, 11:25:20 PDT

Ingrid Carlsen Monday, August 20, 2007, 03:05:26 PDT
kool site, I'm looking for a good Valknut tattoo design, can you help me?

gymptnqjf ohmwn Monday, August 06, 2007, 22:15:18 PDT
gstl wzackfu uwzsol jefp ykjxlh qjigpnv okhu

Flametresses Tuesday, July 10, 2007, 05:53:48 PDT
I don't need to wear my beliefs on my sleeve (although in a way I do, being that I have many Norse/Heathen symbols tattooed on my arms), but I certainly don't hide them nor am I ashamed of them. If the subject of religiion comes up I answer honestly, although most people have no idea what I'm talking about and those who think they do still don't get it! Besides, this is America. FREEDOM OF RELIGION!

wztgvbdlre Tuesday, July 03, 2007, 08:28:22 PDT
Hello! Good Site! Thanks you! xcjvemfqsna

Jermaine Sunday, June 24, 2007, 15:37:36 PDT
Very interesting site, beautiful design, thank.

Thursday, June 21, 2007, 16:20:02 PDT
I am proud of my Faith

niki Tuesday, May 08, 2007, 21:40:51 PDT
i follow the believes and values of asatru. only my close friends know as i go to a school that believes that any person that is a pagan will dance naked around a bon fire, sacrafic a cat and drink its blood. my rents also dont know. my mum thinks that pagan is the devils religon and both of them are christian. but i hold my believes close

art hazel Thursday, May 03, 2007, 15:08:30 PDT
I am not shy about my beliefs .and i am also proud of my heritage. and i pity the kristjan who gets into a theological discusion with me .

Eirikr Aasgaard Tuesday, May 01, 2007, 13:02:10 PDT
No need to be an in the closet pagan!

Seodanrot Tylance Wednesday, April 11, 2007, 09:57:34 PDT
We are not to be feared we are to stand strong in what we believe in by not being dogmatic as the other faiths of the world. But I do believe that we should all stand together and unite as any other faith in the world.

Anders Froststrom Tuesday, April 03, 2007, 14:15:28 PDT
High Five, Mr. Grendalsson! If we rally enough of us together, we can halt Christian tyranny. Alone, we are powerless. United, we are a force to be reckoned with...and feared!!!

Valtamdraugr (deadhouse5@yahoo.com) Tuesday, March 27, 2007, 11:56:09 PDT
They all could have guessed it anyways.

Kristogre Grendalsson Monday, March 26, 2007, 10:57:14 PDT
Christianity did its best to crush and destroy all knowledge of our heritage Hold your faith close and do not relent. When the last skald told the people to accept christ or have the people perish from the face of the earth, many would have prefered to perish. Now in our age of enlightenment the Pope has even asked the persecution of Jews to cease. The haters remain, christianity still oppresses the world, but hope glimmers on the path. Yves Kodratoff says it best when he returns unto Odin what was Odin's...the changing of the prayers and blessings back to the path from which they came. My father hid our heritage, all my elders are dead, I stood alone unaided in my beliefs. I have found my path and gods willing, we will heal the earth of its cancers, bit by bit, bite by bite, wound by wound. Grendalsson@yahoo.com

Kenneth Sunday, March 18, 2007, 05:59:36 PDT
Everyone who matters knows(and a few who don't). But as a general rule I don't announce it unless the subject of religion comes up. Which I try to avoid along with politics and money. An American in Germany Email: Quellan@yahoo.com

Sylvana Sunday, March 18, 2007, 05:20:50 PDT
I only tell family (that i live with) and my boyfriend.

Anders Froststrom Tuesday, February 27, 2007, 12:33:59 PST
I keep it secret since I live in a society where Christianity is the norm. I prefer not to draw attention to myself. Its nice to find a website with people who actually understand guys like me.

mercenary ben Friday, January 12, 2007, 10:54:25 PST
i am and most know. although i find it hard to meet like-minded people. i wish to be joined with the woman i love in the right way (handfasting of course) but i cannt find the right people to preside over such a thing. of course it does not help that im part of a rather busy warband (the british army) oh well.

John Ulfur Vinur Sunday, November 26, 2006, 10:48:54 PST
Everyone knows that i am asatruar and everyone respects that. i get a few people ask me what it is about so i tll them. my parent and family respect that i have found my belifs and they understand what they are about.

Gunnar Saturday, November 18, 2006, 05:14:41 PST
Just my pagan friends know it.

Lyra Logan Saturday, October 21, 2006, 01:44:01 PDT
While I don't advertise My Religion, I make it no secret that I am an Asatru, and have been for over 5 years now. (Seeing as I am only 22, that's almost a quarter of my life so far!) The most tell tale sign, however, is the Valknut Tattoo on my left deltoid.

Jan Gerstner Wednesday, September 27, 2006, 14:19:59 PDT
Another tough one. Family, since they raised me Nordic. Some friends, many of whom don't believe me. A few coworkers, mostly informed so the Christianists will stop trying to proselytize or evangelize me. A few do believe me. I wear it openly, "on my sleeve," but don't push it.

Chad Sunday, September 24, 2006, 15:24:42 PDT
Great poll. Currently, only my wife and friends. Her parents think I'm Buddhist (neat philophies there), and my parents think I'm just "fallen" spiritually (of course). I wear Mjolnir around my neck and explain it to the curious, though I don't generally proclaim it as a faith. I let them draw their own conclusions.

Andy Uk Tuesday, August 22, 2006, 14:46:59 PDT
Only my fiancee knows and for the time being I wish to keep it that way. My few friends are somewhat closed minded, and my family is not very spiritual at all. So it would be difficult to try and explain to them my beliefs. My fiancee is more open minded, and although she is currently agnostic, she is trying to find her faith. From what she tells me of what she does believe, I feel that she too would benefit from learning more of the old ways. She is not as passionate as I am about it however. Still, time wil l tell.

Andru Friday, August 04, 2006, 15:00:25 PDT
I'm in transition.

Xara P. Tuesday, July 18, 2006, 03:14:33 PDT
I became Asatru this summer and only my online friends know I'm not Eastern Orthodox anymore. I'm getting my hammer next month. I'm not shouting from the rooftops I'm Heathen, but I shant deny it, either.

M.S. Cocherl Tuesday, June 27, 2006, 20:18:43 PDT
This Poll need something between 2 & 3. I find it interesting that while I have only within the last year or so began to consider myself Asatru, I have been "unknowingly" practicing many of the rites and Blot's on my own for over 25 years. M.S Cocherl SFC, USA (RET)

christopher Sunday, April 23, 2006, 16:59:47 PDT
I don't exactly advertise my beliefs, what is the point, but I really don't give a damn what anybody else thinks of them.

Nicolas Hardesty Sunday, March 19, 2006, 11:20:31 PST
Asatru is relatively new to me, but I have told my family members that I am studying it. The majority of my family is christian and I don't feel that they have much respect for Asatru. I think they believe it to be "silly" and "false" compared to their christianity. They have known for a long time that I am NOT a christian, nor would ever be. The subject, however, rarely comes up at either work or with my friends as most of my friends are atheist.

asaziggy de elric aka wolfwight wyrmsmythe wotanisan Tuesday, March 14, 2006, 09:13:36 PST
IN THE NAME OF THE MIDGARD SERPENT IORMUNDGAND LET ALL KNOW THAT WE HAVE STARED INTO THE EYES OF THE DRAGON AND WE ARE ALL GOING ONTO ENHERIT LANDS AND TITLES IN THE CELESTIAL WORLD TREE OF YGGDRASIL. HAIL LOLTH HAIL ODHINN` HAIL ME @ ASAZIGGY@AOL.COM OPEN TO COMMENT

Ragnhild Friggsdottir Sunday, March 12, 2006, 14:48:41 PST
Most of my friends know, and a few people in my family know, also my husband and his friends know. My coworkers don't know, but I have worn my hammer to work (especially on holidays) on occaision. I really don't think it's necessary to blurt it to the world, as I find people of other religions annoying when they 'blurt' it out that they are Christian or whatnot. I'm a pretty private person anyway, however I could not lie if asked directly.

Chad Sunday, March 05, 2006, 20:04:50 PST
My fiancee and my friends know. And just as soon as I attain my own land and home, all my bible-thumping family will know.

Jack Lower Friday, February 17, 2006, 07:41:17 PST
E-Mail Harsteggi@insight.rr.com. My son & I are legally licensed by the state of Ohio in the Asatru religion. I have performed a number of Asatru & genreic non christian weddings.I was on the board of directors for 8 years & my wife was secretary of a methodist church for 15 years. As the church was falling apart we were introduced to Asatru. That was 11years ago. We have never regreted our move. Hagar the Happy

Shane Thursday, February 16, 2006, 15:25:24 PST
In truth any one who cares about what I think knows im Asatru.

Sif Tuesday, February 14, 2006, 08:27:31 PST
Most people around me knows I´m asatru, why keep it a secret, when it affects so much of how I live my life?

Warren Erulian Saturday, February 11, 2006, 16:07:45 PST
We're under no obligation to tell anyone anything, we don't have to proselytize or recruit. If someone asks and they're of my folk I've always held it as a personal rule to answer truthfully, even still those with negative motives get only the answer to their question and nothing above or beyond that would be used for harmful purposes. So far so good.

Sigrun Friday, December 23, 2005, 17:33:07 PST
I am an ex-Heathen. For five years I was a Gythia with a Kindred of my own in CT and Odin and Freyja were my patron God and Goddess (of course I gave homage to all the Gods and Goddesses). In September I received Christ as my Lord and Savior because Asatru stopped "working for me". Before you argue that I was never really Asatru in the first place, I was, and EVERYONE knew it. Now, I am not one of THOSE Christians who denounces Asatru as being "satanic" and all of that crap because I've been there and I know better. But I'm glad I got out of it, and you can, too, if you want. If you have any questions or comments e-mail me at gnirevol26@aol.com, PLEASE NO SPAM. Thank you and God bless you.

nick rivera Thursday, December 22, 2005, 20:45:31 PST
i love girls who r fisty

Liam Wednesday, December 21, 2005, 04:09:35 PST
If anyone asks, I will tell them, but I hate it when people bring up their religion to me without relevant preamble so I try not to do it myself.

Motul Thursday, December 01, 2005, 15:47:24 PST
I do not keep it private. However, I do not advertise it. My wife who is Chinese likes my hammer. She respects my Nordic herritage and our mythology.(she likes exotic men) My father recognizes my hammer and eventhough he is lutheran, He likes the fact that I haven't forgotten our herritage. My mother who is catholic doesn't want to know.

Cecil Corder Wednesday, November 30, 2005, 14:19:56 PST
I have had many people ask why i wear a hammer around my neck. I tell them it is a symbol of my religion and my faith in my gods and goddesses. I have had many discussions with christians (arguments actually)as to the validity of my beliefs and the truth of my path. I have found that by being Truthful and showing conviction in my faith when engaged in these conversations I have shown those individuals that Asatru is a path to Knowledge and Wisdom. I do not hide what I am nor will I ever and it gladdens my heart to see that others of the Way do the same.

Tom Thorbjorn Sunday, November 20, 2005, 02:56:29 PST
I've only told my family about my religion, but if any of my friends knew what Asatru was I'm sure they'd figure it out. (I carry my hammer with me everywhere and make my own mead, for instance). My friends know I have an interest in "mythology" and I'm pretty sure they know I'm not a Chistian. They've all seen my hammer and mead and other religious tools as well. They've never actually asked me about it though. This year, as Yule approaches, I feal as though I will tell two of my very close friends, because I know the subject of religion and Christmas will come up and I do not wish to hide what I am anymore.

Jared Monday, November 14, 2005, 17:19:10 PST
I understand why for certain jobs it might be necissary to at least be deferintial about your faith, I don't believe that it should be kept hidden for long, or from those who you wish to trust. I'm in Memphis, and even here, I haven't encountered any problems with my religion. I have had more people give me trouble for a shirt i bought from Target than I have for my religion.

Strider Hermannsson Sunday, November 13, 2005, 06:28:15 PST
I don't broadcast my business to those whose concern it's not, but I'm confident and proud of the path I've chosen.Those who know me also know what I'm about.

Tyrvald Thursday, August 25, 2005, 03:33:26 PDT
I'll tell anyone I'm Asatru, but most people have no idea what that word means and when I use the word Pagan (which is a word I often have to explain as well, and at 15 I wasn't familiar with either) people think I'm Wiccan. Even old friends make the mistake. I used to be Wiccan, but it's hard to explain the difference to agnostics, atheists and monotheists. I manage to be open about my religion without most people actually understanding what that religion is. I get trouble from Christians and Atheists. The Christians tell me I have to worship their Jesus because of what he could do to me if I don't and Atheists tell me that Pagan cultures "mistook" lightning for a God and "mistook" the Earth for a Goddess.

Brandon Lashbrook Friday, August 19, 2005, 21:40:56 PDT
I am proud of my Germanic Heritage and only through showing our pride will we clear up the lies regarding our traditions and reaweken our folk to our true culture. There is a town named after Odin here in IL. where I reside not far away and another called German town. I plan to start an actual Hof Temple eventually. Then hopefully the many descendents of the American Germanic settlers will atlast throw off the schakles of the Bloody Christian Church and reclaim their true heritage? There is a great potential to reawken our culture we jsut have to make it known and that starts with oneself taking pride in it.

Deor Tuesday, July 26, 2005, 06:27:32 PDT
Hmm. Only my good friends know what I believe. When applying for jobs, I know from experience that if I write Asatru on the application form, I will not get the job. If I let co-workers know, I would probably lose my job (a primary school teacher by the way). Every day at work, I have to pretend to be Christian. In order to work in some schools I even need a letter from my vicar as a reference to work. Without this, I will not even be considered for the position. Just like the 'good ole days' eh? Ah well, our ancestors pretended to be Christian to get lower taxes, better trading rights and, of course, to prevent themselves from being executed. Slightly worrying that we still have to pretend to be Christian over a thousand years later though...

Jason Saturday, July 16, 2005, 01:02:20 PDT
My friends all know where I stand (or sit on the high seat) with what I truly believe in. This is my life, I wouldn't be here if it were not my path or my purpose in this life. Its rare to meet fellow Asatru brothers here in Minnesota. Contact me at Asatruancientmariner@yahoo.com.

Thor Jensen Wednesday, July 06, 2005, 09:42:10 PDT
Come to Denmark where u guys belong :D

Saturday, July 02, 2005, 16:37:53 PDT
My wife and children are aware but since this is all still new to me I feel I should obtain more knowledge before letting others in on my decision. Once I feel I understand things better, though, I will have no reservations about informing others of my beliefs.

Erica Wednesday, June 08, 2005, 15:46:19 PDT
Most of the people close to me know what my religion is. My husband's family was FornSedr for several generations in both Sweden and Iceland before immigrating to the states. We met in 1978 at a Yule celebration. We have raised our children Asatru and they in turn are part of the more widely open Heathen community. Things sure have changed for the better since the late 70's!

bria Wednesday, May 18, 2005, 23:07:05 PDT
I am not astaru they are intersting though i too searched for truth adn found a different pagan path (Taoism) yeah yeah may the force be with you (thast part of Taoism the star wars beleif) my emails Kero_bearus@yahoo.com btw i know what you mean by christians thinking theyre right i get in heated debates with fundies that think they rule the world

`David Anderson Tuesday, May 17, 2005, 16:48:35 PDT
I am proud of my heritage and my religion my address is 2304 graceland rd. New Castle, Pa. 16105. anyone with any questions may write anytime. I hope to hear from you soon

Jason Thursday, May 05, 2005, 09:48:22 PDT
Not many know. I don't keep it secret but I don't broadcast it either. Religion rarely comes up in everyday conversation. If someone asked, I would tell them, but I don't walk up to people and say, "By the way, I'm Asatru." There is so much religious diversity here (Toronto Canada) I don't expect any problems.

Wolf Thursday, May 05, 2005, 07:27:15 PDT
It troubles me to know that only 9% of us use our voice and my voice comes from South Africa and many know of me

jim eisel Saturday, April 30, 2005, 13:19:02 PDT
everyone around me knows it. my wife and I were married using a old norse ceremony, parents were a bit concerned though. I also wear a thors hammer pendant that was produced in germany during world war 2 on alarge silver chain. ive yet to get any negative comments on it.

Rik Pfaelzer Thursday, April 14, 2005, 13:13:55 PDT
I do not hide what I am, nor do I go arround trying to make converts. I believe we all find our way through our own hearts and souls.

James Stonehouse Thursday, March 17, 2005, 21:02:32 PST
Not something I hide. I think it's good to be open about what you stand for.

Rebekah Tuesday, February 15, 2005, 11:34:24 PST
I'd love to meet others in my area!! Portland, ME mercy4cooper@yahoo.com

Friggsdottir Thursday, February 10, 2005, 01:13:06 PST
I would also like to append that my friends and my family know (husband, and most of his family), and not that I fear persecution (except from most of my own family My mom, my brother, grandmother, aunt, and a few others; aside from a cousin who knows because she is a Witch, howevery they don't need to know, as long as they know I am a good decent person, that's all that is important.) I just don't feel it's really any of their business, especially co-workers, even though I wear my Thor's Hammer to work on a silver chain, if anyone were to ask what it was and what it meant to me, then I would probably have some explaining to do. Until then, I don't see what the point is in blasting it out to the world, we find it annoying when Christians do it, so why waste our time?

Francesco Tuesday, January 18, 2005, 08:53:51 PST
In Italy you often find closed minds,due to the belief heathen=ignorant person,caused by the christian fearful vision of what's different and by the one-minded school education.I found understanding only in few friends,I practice alone and I suffer a bit for this situation,but it's what lies beetwen me,the Gods and the Nine Worlds that matters...in the end,I won't be a stupid christian who tries to proselytize everyone different from him!

miss _edred Tuesday, January 18, 2005, 04:35:13 PST
Most of my friends share my beleifs, yet do not call them selves by this name.

axel Sunday, January 02, 2005, 20:51:51 PST
cannot explain to the closed mind

Zephrox Thursday, December 23, 2004, 08:11:16 PST
my beleifs are based on experience. I have experienced things that have pointed me in this direction. I search only for the Truth. By Thor's hammer and odins eye might I achieve true forsight and purpose.

Zephrox Thursday, December 23, 2004, 08:10:48 PST
my beleifs are based on experience. I have experienced things that have pointed me in this direction. I search only for the Truth. By Thor's hammer and odins eye might I achieve true forsight and purpose.

Avlad of the Phoenix Sunday, November 21, 2004, 19:22:45 PST
My immediate family knows and some accept it but not all. Most of the other people that I have told share my beliefs.

drage Thursday, November 04, 2004, 11:36:47 PST
only my wife and a few friends. most others i tell don't have a clue what i'm talking about.

Falcon Thursday, September 23, 2004, 03:45:49 PDT
RESPONCE TO PAM. That must be difficult with so many nuns/priests in your family. If they look at their faith they must accept that truth is a virtue. If they ostracise you for your beliefs then they are being hypocritical. If you are a good,true,honest person do you think Christ would give a crap how or who you believed in? Our dieties lie within us and are refected by our actions. I won't expound further but I'm sure you get the gist. I wish you the best of luck.

Tom Douglas Thursday, August 12, 2004, 05:57:52 PDT
Yet another Army dude here. Following a pacifist Xian diety in the military is just plain stupid to me. Hypocritical (spelling?) at best. I don't ram my religion down anyones throat (as long as they return the favor LOL) but don't make any attempt to hide it either (it's even on my dog tags LOL).

Melanie-astrid Freyja-idhunn ragfreyhar Tuesday, August 03, 2004, 22:24:22 PDT
My whole family is asatru anyway ever since i can remember and everyone else can remember (norwegian,icelandic family). and any way its kinda obvious i have a giant gold hammer round my neck, people asking me about it every 5 seconds so i go around wearing my "i'm proud to be an asatru-viking" tshirt its kinda old now i made it myself.

Wulf Monday, August 02, 2004, 11:55:33 PDT
I don't fear persecution , my whole family knows as do all my friends , If folks ask my opinion of course it's going to have a viking flavor to it thats just the way i think. I feel no shame nor guilt , if folks have a problem with my views even if they are blood , it is their problem not mine 'll still love them just at an arms length and kinda abstract sorta way

Greg Holston Sunday, August 01, 2004, 23:16:05 PDT
I let family members know but they must block it out or something because they still don't know what I believe after I've told them several times.

Erick The Red Friday, July 09, 2004, 22:33:38 PDT
My parents, good friends and a few other people know. I am always up for a debate with the xians about religion, they seem to be under the impression they are superior and "right" about everything. Although after about 5 minutes I'd be better off talking to a wall. Logic usually wins out and Asatru makes 20x more sense then christianity ever did to me, and anyone who bothers to examine the 2 would probably agree.

Pam Tuesday, May 18, 2004, 15:22:45 PDT
This is a tough one, because to tell or not to tell my family I am heathen is a real religious dilemma. On one hand, I honor truth, and feel that I should be honest and open about my beliefs to everyone, especially my family. On the other hand, my family is VERY devoutly Roman Catholic, with priests and nuns on both sides of the family reaching back generations. Telling them about my faith would be devastating to them, not to mention the damage it could cause to my relationship to my nieces and nephews. It is a fine line to walk, between not lying about your faith and not hurting your family. I try to let them know the parts of the truth they can handle and keep silent for now about the rest. Someday, perhaps, it will be the time for them to hear everything.

Alex the brand-new convert Wednesday, March 24, 2004, 07:50:57 PST
My brother & a friend are the only ones than know. I have fear of rejection so I keep it private.

Waldwulfen Tuesday, March 23, 2004, 15:04:28 PST
Everyone should know you are Asatru! Especially those damned Christians who try to bring you to church! Wear you hammer with pride!

Hammer Kindred Thursday, March 18, 2004, 08:19:34 PST
If they ask, I tell them I'm Asatruar. If they want to know what that is, I tell them. I don't hide my beliefs at all but I also don't wear a neon sign that declares my faith. It's MY faith, not necessarily that of those around me. But again, I also have no problems putting up Asatru-related things up in my office, just like how people put up crosses or other personal effects in their offices where I work. I guess you could say that I really don't care if anyone has a problem with my faith. If I lie about it or hide it from view, I'm doing my own decision to follow it a disservice and that is the worst of crimes to me.

osama jamalaldeen Saturday, March 13, 2004, 12:31:15 PST

ron peterson Tuesday, February 24, 2004, 10:46:22 PST
i really dont know how many as i tell many i am of norwegian ancestry but i have intimated to my friends that i have felt northern pulls an discussed the gods

sean Saturday, January 31, 2004, 13:16:15 PST
i get tired of arguing belief, i also feel it keeps the way honest and sacred.

Kalithunder Monday, December 22, 2003, 15:32:21 PST
Only my friends, and not all of them. I am not ashamed of my beliefs, but why cause problems with others by telling them my religion when there is no reason to tell them. I have some close Christian friends who would have issues with my religious beliefs. I have chosen to tell them "I'm not Christian". If they ask more of me I will gladly tell them, but it hasn't happened yet.

Susie Sunday, December 14, 2003, 04:40:17 PST
Just about everyone... I am vocal and active. My daughters are, as well.

freya holmgaard Thursday, November 20, 2003, 14:41:37 PST
My sis and parrents know. Becurse iwe raist in to the belive. but iwe holding it two my self. iwe done two menny debates about it. besite iwe think that piople can belive in what thay whant. besite i am so tired of piople dressing-up and stuff. But if somone ask. Iam not shay to thell about the God`s.

Mini Phreek Thursday, October 30, 2003, 17:04:33 PST
man, i've been holding celabations for Yule, Midsummer, Ostara and winter finding with my freinds for about 2 years and my parents still don't know

Chad in NV Sunday, October 19, 2003, 16:18:09 PDT
While only my friends know, I'm not "in the closet". I always wear my Hammer or Valknut openly. Even at work, and that's at a Catholic hospital ironically. So, if someone asks what the symbol is, I'll tell them. If that leads to more questions, I'm certainly not opposed to that. After all, there are people all over the place who are looking for a spirituality that is "right" for them. I'm sure many of those seekers have no clue that Asatru exists, but some may find it's what they've been looking for once they've heard of it.

Markvard Gillson Tuesday, October 14, 2003, 06:54:17 PDT
Heil! My wife knows that I am Asatruarmadr almost obviously... My twin sister knows it too... I think... One day, a lot of people will know it! markvardgillson@hotmail.com

Goði Frank P. Coleman Tuesday, September 30, 2003, 09:11:55 PDT
The way you live your life is a form of prayer. "A Heathen is like a tapestry with the vibrant strands of faith woven through him." Be not ashamed of who and what you are, for our gods are not ashamed of you!

Neal Wednesday, September 10, 2003, 10:48:04 PDT
My brother is also a heathen. all of our family know. So do my friends and co workers who I trust. I once lost my job when the manager found out I was heathen.

Paxson Lowenhart Wednesday, August 27, 2003, 00:16:43 PDT
I am not shy about telling others about my beliefs unless I am surrounded by cowans and the escape hatch is too far away.

Doug Freyburger Thursday, August 07, 2003, 14:48:28 PDT
I use my legal name in Asatru, in all of my UseNet postings, you name it. I wear my pendants inside my shirt so I'm not obvious to strangers, but it generally comes up in conversations with colleagues within a couple of months at a new job and so on.

jeff roberts Monday, July 07, 2003, 15:00:08 PDT
i dont belive in hiding facts about one's self if promotes distrust. i tink i should be loved and respeced for who i am.

irrelevant Sunday, June 29, 2003, 10:19:50 PDT
I consider my religion a very private part of me. To do otherwise seems to cheapen it. Also why bandy the names about and draw attention to yourself either from up above, or from your fellow human beings. Let others to include Christians loudly proclaim thier affinity.

irrelevant Sunday, June 29, 2003, 10:19:02 PDT
I consider my religion a very private part of me. To do otherwise seems to cheapen it. Also why bandy the names about and draw attention to yourself either from up above, or from your fellow human beings. Let others to include Christians loudly proclaim thier affinity.

Morgana Thursday, June 26, 2003, 17:57:13 PDT
If your faith is something you shy away from telling people about you should maybe just stop having it as your faith. if we pagans don't step out of our closets and come clean about our religions or lack of it we will never have respect and understanding!!! pagans of the world should be proud!!!!!

Krie Thursday, June 19, 2003, 21:54:26 PDT
Whenever anyone asks me "Do you believe in God?", I take a deep breath and begin my explanation of what I believe. I hate it when people ask me that because it gets really annoying. I usually start off by telling them I believe in many gods, and if they keep pressing, I tell them the bare basics of Asatru. I'm still working on telling my family, though. I'm concerned about how my mother-in-law, a hardcore Catholic, will react; I don't want a strained relationship, but if she doesn't accept me, then I say come what may, though my husband would rather I hide who I am to preserve the peace. It makes me feel horrid to do such a thing, for I feel it's very un-heathen of me to hide my nature from anyone. But we'll see how things go; if she can't accept it, it's her deal, not mine. At any rate, I tell anyone who asks. It's as simple as that. In Frith, *krie*

ulfkrieg Thursday, June 12, 2003, 13:55:24 PDT
We can not! must not hide ourselves. The blind walk around preaching their fith. They think this is their society. we must not hide and allow them to oppress us. x-tians must be brought to heel. we can not accomplish this by being meek. If you are scared of peoples reactions, and you let that effect your decisions perhapes you dont belong here. WE ARE ALL TO BE WARRIORS! Warriors are not controled by fear.

blue Monday, June 02, 2003, 19:14:32 PDT
I don't tell people right away. I hate confrontation, so I let people get to know me well, then I let them find out. I\

Seth Thursday, May 22, 2003, 17:07:05 PDT
Yeah, my parents definitly know now. They won't leave me alone. My dad likes to tell me its all faery tales, but i told him he really wants me to beleive in a different set of faery tales. I think that messiahs are fantasy creatures.

Carlos Friday, April 11, 2003, 18:23:50 PDT
I see no shame in naming myself Asatru as per my beliefs. If people like it, fine. If people dislike it, fine. Whomever asks is told the truth. No need to hide what you know is correct, otherwise doing such would mean cowardice.

Nattefrost Wednesday, April 02, 2003, 00:59:10 PST
I tell it to those who are intelligent enough to see: it is not just a childish "let us play that we are Vikings" thing.

Jack Hart Saturday, March 22, 2003, 12:05:57 PST
I tell most people. The rest I don't because I doubt they would care or be interested.

Thorgestr Grimmsson Thursday, March 20, 2003, 07:57:21 PST
I dont "testify" but when I am asked then I explain my beliefs to people. My Mother just recently bothered to stop calling me a satanist long enough to inquire about my faith. She actually apologized aout being so narrow in her Christianity.

Heather Friday, March 14, 2003, 13:10:26 PST
I am eager to argue anytime, so I refuse to hide my religion,I have the most pleasure when Christians try there hardest during the whole of the conversation telling me im damned, and insisting i will go to hell, 90% of them leave questioning their own faith. The headstrong ones that just cut me off, and dont let me speak, screeching about me going straight to hell, my respose is "No Hel is coming to u, and shes pissed!" That never fails to knock em through a loop.

Monday, March 03, 2003, 12:23:31 PST

the Varg-ulf Monday, January 20, 2003, 00:39:29 PST
those who need to know, know. those who don't, don't.

Moe Friday, December 27, 2002, 10:12:16 PST
I respect my beleifs and feel that although I choose not flaunt my beleifs, I will speak of them if asked. Wonderful question!

Volrath Friday, December 27, 2002, 09:47:46 PST
I've told every one I know. Most of the time I just get the response of "oh you're a wiccan."That usually sends me into a heated discussion about the differences between wiccan and Asatru.Ilet them know quite clearly that we are also not athieist, witches, nor are we satanists.This usually results in the small minded walking away. Though I must admit, I have been shocked at the recent amount of open minded people willing to sit and listen to the ways of the old Norse.I've even found it refreshing that numerous times I have had Cristians ask me about our religion.I explain to them as breifly as I can about our religion.Then it is almost as if a light came on inside thier minds. My family mostly thinks I'm insane though.

Anthony McPherson Tuesday, December 24, 2002, 03:04:28 PST
Hel, I even printed out a card and used part of my Clan Badge with a Hammer hanging from it on the card.

Tyrulf Thursday, November 28, 2002, 21:34:02 PST
I do'nt openly blab about my beliefs, yet I am not ashamed of them either. All who know me know of my beliefs, including employers. It is only by being honest, open and proud of our thews without ramming them down others throats will we gain acceptance with the rest of the world.

Hrafn Wednesday, November 13, 2002, 10:35:17 PST
Okay...the answer is none gradually moving toward "The whole world." Of course, you have to keep in mind that I was raised Jewish and there are more than a handful of Asatruar who aren't ready to hear about me either. I know a rabbi who was once a Christian minister of some sort, maybe I'll be the first Gothi who was once a rabbi.

flemming nielsen Sunday, November 10, 2002, 11:50:49 PST
hil. odin hil tyr hil tor hil fjer hil alle aser.

Jamie Tuesday, October 22, 2002, 11:35:25 PDT
jimatnight@hotmail.com I wear my hammer earring and pendant. I'm working on some deigns for tats as soon as I find a good artist I'll start them.

Ingsdottir Thursday, October 17, 2002, 14:48:25 PDT
Those who know -- my agnostic husband, my parents (leftist ex-Catholics in protest of Vatican misogyny) & siblings (earth-worshipers all) -- support me. I was raised to train my mind towards social analysis and never back down from a good debate, so I feel comfortable expressing my beliefs. (Sadly, few people I talk to know anything about paganism other than what they picked up watching "The Craft" on cable TV; more than once I've had to explain that Asatru & Wicca aren't just different brand names of the same product, like the varying sects of Christianity are.) The one place I WON'T talk religion is at my civil service job, because I believe strictly that "separation of church and state" means "ain't nobody's business, Jack!". Several of my coworkers are born-again-type Christians, but only one has gotten in my face and demanded to know where I go to church. (I told him, "The woods!") As for the Nazi-white-supremacist misconception, everyone who knows me (or even stands near me for 5 minutes) knows that I'm a progressive working-class leftist who has zero tolerance for racist/elitist bullshit. Through that I hope to help people understand Asatru from a well-rounded standpoint.

Eric Schwenke Wednesday, October 16, 2002, 21:02:43 PDT
I pick and choose very carefully who I talk to about it. I do this for several reasons. In no particular order, they are: a) I don't want to be confused with Wiccans, b) I don't want to be confused with White-supremicists, c) I want to be judged by WHO I am, not WHAT I am, d) It's not really anyone elses business, and one big, last reason. I know many pagans who talk about their religion all the time. They make a big deal about it. They think that other people should care. They think that their religion entitles them to something. They think that it makes them cool. I think that it makes them insufferably obnoxious. I don't want to be like these people.

Cynewulf Tuesday, October 15, 2002, 12:54:41 PDT
I am an English Wodenist and not afraid of being so - although my Christian work colleagues eye me with a look of dispair - funny how your true self shows through even if very few people actually know what your beliefs are isn't it? Anyway, I have come "home" - after hearing the call of "come to my my daughter" from Hearne the Hunter. I can also feel my antlers. Wonderful.

Lou Levesque Thursday, October 03, 2002, 19:39:34 PDT
My co-workers ended up included by accident. Being that I'm in the U.S. Army, I tried (for several reasons) to keep my beliefs a private matter. When someone saw my I.D. tags, it got around. My parents are aware, and have gradually accepted this.

Yulfa Thursday, August 22, 2002, 06:41:29 PDT
something primal within has guided me back to honoring my ancestors. too many of us take for granted the legacy they left us,(our very lives). begining with the romans, a campane of catastophic proportions was launched that when followed on the hills by religios conversion began the systematic genecide of our culture. in so doing we have lost our honor, our integrety. the old way which survived this onslaught is once again a legacy past on to us.i honor this wisdom.and through honor integrity is reborn.

Freyr Robertsson Friday, June 21, 2002, 12:26:10 PDT
I'm going to my first Hearth-held blessing for this midsummer, so maybe I am coming out of the closet after 13 plus years.

Brid N Tuesday, March 26, 2002, 17:10:05
"Identity" and the modern cult of self-empowerment is such a crock of crap. Nail biting over whether one is "Asatru enough" to tell the parents or "out" oneself to the next-cubicle fundie is pathetic and maudlin. Breast-beating about how one is such a courageous heathen is almost as bad and twice as adolescent. My take: do what you have to do. I feel no responsibility to educate anyone, and would be disgracing the Powers if I were to pimp the deeper lore to slaves in some attempt to justify My Way. Stand for the Gods when pressed by need, but some people aren't worth the sweat. "Discretion is the better part of valor." However, the occassional skirmish with the white-one's minions do no harm. Do this: take their propaganda gratefully and enthusiastically. Proceed to wax poetical reguarding use of bibles for cheap toilet paper and efficient kindling. Or just rip it up whilst maintaining direct eye contact. Either way, the moment's sure to be a keeper.

Xanthe Kelsylva Sunday, January 27, 2002, 00:03:01
I'm new so I have no idea how to tell anyone. The thing is, my parents are both Catholics and I go to a Catholic school. So I don't want to make it to obvious. A couple of my close friends know that I've cast rune spells before, but they haven't made the connection yet with me talking about Norse Gods and runes yet. One of their moms thinks I'm a freak though. Of course there's other things that could make her think that. lol.

Steamy Friday, January 25, 2002, 01:29:21
I will talk to everyone & anyone who seriously wants more knowledge of Norse & other Euro beliefs. Too many are ignorant and others misled. I, myself, am still learning but very discerning. There is much good to be gotten without airy fantasy. Follow the Sacred Runes & walk with Odhinn! Other true Asatruer can contact me at steamy@lvcm.com. Also find out more about me on http://www.steamy1.com. In firth -- Steamy :)

Nick Tyler Sunday, January 20, 2002, 14:24:39
I have been practicing for about 7 years now, and at the start I was very secretive about it, as I was quite young at the time, now having grown up and matured a fair bit, I don't hide it and I don't flaunt it. The important people in my life know (Family, friends, and Co-workers), and if it comes up in conversation, I proudly tell people that I am Asatru, but I find no reason to batter peoples front doors down and tell them about it, its a personal thing.

Brent Friday, January 18, 2002, 23:01:43
i told everyone when i converted

Noron Wednesday, January 16, 2002, 03:38:57
My friends know and understand that I'm deeply into the religion of the north, the rest of them are interested in varying degrees or are into completely different forms of heathenism completely. My Mom knows I'm into Runes and so is she but that's all she really knows.

adam heywood Friday, January 11, 2002, 20:06:44
adamheywood@earthlink.net if you have anything relevent. thanks adam

fredrik liljegren Monday, December 10, 2001, 01:11:10

swampwitch Thursday, November 01, 2001, 03:35:13
those who ask I tell otherwise I dont exactly go about bragging but if ou look you can see such as my Thors hammer I wear and my belt buckel with Thor on it.

Axel Willekens Von Valfrücht Friday, October 12, 2001, 18:32:51
Everybody who CAN understand, knows -however I usually define myself as an Odian, which includes Asatru and Vanatru.

Vitralrek Sunday, October 07, 2001, 20:41:45
My parents and family do not know the details of my religious beliefs, they do know that I am Norse Pagan though. Most of myfriends know of my religion but don't know the details either. Anyone who asks I am happy to tell.

Nissa Saturday, October 06, 2001, 21:31:24
Recently I went with my mom to her Presbyterian church office to drop off some stuff for a bake sale. When my mom introduced me to the new minister, I told her, "I'm the family Pagan". She said "Oh, you must have some wonderful celebrations."

Bob Trapp Thursday, September 27, 2001, 03:28:32
It is my usual practice to practice openly. When people ask, I tell. Most of the time it is not neccessary to go into too much detail. When an ex-girlfriend told her grandmother about my friends and myself, her grandmother responded, "Good, maybe you'll learn something about your people." Iowa has had a goodly number of Heathens in its past. This means that I'm doing things that are perfectly normal. See you all at Decorah Iowa's Nordic Fest!

ralik ravenwolf aorv Monday, September 03, 2001, 03:27:09
my wife and children are all odinists and i and my wife are studing to be gothi in the odinic rite and every one we know knows we are odinists

Lif Hiedulfr Saturday, August 11, 2001, 11:03:07
Well... It seems that most people are restricted to the innangard, staying where it seems safe inside the bounds of society and remaining in a holding pattern. 'Should I tell them or should I not'. A true warrior or Odian would see how the land lies on the flip side of the coin, the Utangard. To see what awaits the wandering Vitki on his/her journey to the self. They would soon suggest to themselves that society, while a part of thier immediate lives, becomes more subjective. The importance of the views of others seems to dwindle, and with a grin you are reminded that the final resting place for the non-Erulian is northward and netherward. Always.

tiurik@yahoo.de Wednesday, August 08, 2001, 21:07:20

Dragyn Friday, July 27, 2001, 01:54:24
I wear my hammer proudly and when someone asks what it stands for I tell them. I do not hide my faith, I take pride in it. I am an Asatru to all who know me.

V CAROLE Friday, July 27, 2001, 01:01:56
ONLY A SELECT FEW KNOW OF THE RELIGION I HAVE CHOSEN.I FEEL LIKE I WANT TO SHOUT IT TO THE WORLD,BUT HOWEVER FEW WOULD UNDERSTAND AT THIS PRESENT TIME.ITS AN EXCITING TIME FOR ME A REAL SENSE OF BELONGING AT LAST FOR I HAVE SPENT MANY YEARS WITH A FEELING THAT THERE WAS SOMETHING MISSING IN MY LIFE,NOW, I HAVE FOUND IT!

Tyrna Vikarmann Monday, July 16, 2001, 05:03:39
I do not boast,nor deny what I am.I only tell those who are open-minded enough.I've yet to tell my mother,who "claims" to be a pentacostal preacher,wouldn't she just keel over if she knew(not a bad idea though!)All my co-workers are aware of my religion,I even try to educate them ,I'm always taking something of interest to work with me to read on my breaks,questions are often asked,and I welcome their curiousity,for they could be a future Asaturer?People are too set in their ways,when it comes to religion,most seem to think,your a christian or an athiest,there is nothing else except christianity,that is accepted in today's society,my mother's most famous quote;"it's satanism"!!! BLAH!BLAH!BLAH!I cannot understand how anyone could worship such a selfish god,I WILL BOW DOWN TO NO ONE!!!Heil the Aesir & Vanir!!!!!!For they are unselfish and honorable!!!!They do not "expect" me to coward myself before them.Heil Odin,Freya & Tyr!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bjarki Valgardson Friday, July 13, 2001, 17:07:48
I NEVER hide who or what I am. It is also hard to do with a Valknut on my inner foerarm and a Thor's Hammer on my shoulder. I am even a candidate for our local Law Enforcement agency. I have opened peoples eyes about what an Asatruar really is with my demand for excellence in life and work ethic.

krabbenone Tuesday, July 10, 2001, 11:15:22

madeleine Tuesday, June 26, 2001, 06:42:09
Most of my friends, my family (though my parents and one sister, who teaches in a Christian school, just think it's peculiar and sort of dismiss the whole thing...my other sister is pagan and understands), my in-laws (of Scandinavian descent, so they think it's pretty cool), some of my co-workers. I'm not entirely out at work. I teach and am Director of Education in an adult vocational college, and many of the students are rabidly Christian. Since an important part of my job is to play counselor to them and since we know from past experience with a Muslim teacher that the students have a hard time trusting and opening up to non-Christians, I don't share my religious beliefs with them...yet...

Roy Tapio Kosonen (yggsson@webtv.net) Saturday, June 23, 2001, 16:28:29
Iris, I agree with you when you say that you are not comfortable with listing yourself as a "Pagan". This word has become so strongly associated with a wide variety of beliefs of a generically Nature-based type, that it has no clear meaning. Most of these beliefs are of the Wiccan or "New Age" type, and thus they are eclectic and they try so hard to be inoffensive and all-inclusive that they become unbearably bland. I prefer to call myself "Heathen" because this has a more powerful and scary sound to it. The word "Pagan" comes from Latin and means "Country Dweller", while the word "Heathen" means "Heath Dweller". A Heathen is certainly a dweller in the countryside as would be a Pagan, but the Heath is a wild and lonely place, while the countryside in general many be wild and lonely, but also could be tame and full of tame people. I shall never be tame, nor you either - I may be wrong, but I sense that you like the wild and lonely places as do I. After all, you are a daughter of Iceland, as I am a son of Finland (although I also am partly Baltic German [from Estonia] and Russian).

iris magnusdottir Tuesday, June 05, 2001, 17:23:39
(1) since i found this site i feel more confident in "coming out" to my associates in public. i openly wear emblems and other symbols to express my beliefs, but no more so than christians who wear a cross necklace (for example). often i am asked "if" my pendant stands for something, so i tell them. (2) on surveys, i am beginning to see "pagan" as a choice, but i still do not feel comfortable marking that because i think of "pagan" as being more of celtic origin and custom, which i am not. do you feel that asatru is pagan in a general sense? or is it just me not wanting to be lumped together with other "nature-based" religions?

Ulfrikr inn Hrafn (Dirk Schmitt) Friday, May 18, 2001, 02:49:21
Heil All! I am proud of my beliefs and active in keeping the wolves of ignorance from the gardr. All who know me know at least that I am different. I openly wear a Thors hammer everywhere I go and if people ask I do not hesitate to let them know of my beliefs. Wassail!

Alizaunde Sunday, May 13, 2001, 01:07:13
I'm not ashamed of who or what I am. Tho' I don't shout it to the world, I make no secret of it.

Adolf AORV Saturday, April 28, 2001, 17:04:45
Those who know me be they friend, family, people I meet in online chats all know I am Odinist. Those who have met me in person and online know I am the same on line as I am off line. This has never and will never be a game to me nor will the morals and codes of conduct be only for show.

graham wheeler Thursday, April 26, 2001, 14:53:58
I hope you all put it on your census forms etc!

Grimsteinr Sunday, April 22, 2001, 12:22:12
We should be willing to stand for what we believe in. We should be willing to stand beside Our Kinsmen. Prouyd of Who we are. Not in Fear or subjection!

Svan Saturday, April 21, 2001, 06:57:09
I basically tell everyone I know. Both my parents, all my friends, and my fiances mother knows. (His father is VERY close minded, and my fiance doesn't want to tell Him. My fiance is also Asatru.) And I an half "outed" at work. All my close co-workers know of my religion, and some of the not so close ones. But only because they asked what my religion was and I am very open and won't hide or lie. They are almost all fundelmentalist Christians with a couple of Jews mixed in. Suprisingly I work in a super-corporate enviroment for a large national company in St. Louis MO. Since I have been trying to gently explain our beliefs they have decided that most people of non-mainstream relgions are not the "devil worhipping cultist" that they thought we were. Some of them actually come and ask me how my kindred is, what holidays we celebrate, what we do, etc. I really feel that being open about it in a very non-confrontal way is the best way to go. But everybody has their own way of dealing with things.

Chip Johnson Tuesday, April 17, 2001, 01:46:14
Proud of my folk, I make no attempt to hide who I am. -says it all, I figure. Chip Johnson, www.talktomongo@hotmail.com

iris magnusdottir Friday, April 13, 2001, 20:07:39
friends, yes - but only them because they are the people i talk about such things with. i dont try to hide my beliefs (i wear ornaments of asatru) but i dont flaunt asatru beliefs. if anyone asked, i'd tell them straight out!

Valda Saturday, March 10, 2001, 22:55:38
One of the things about Asatru: You can't be very good at it if you aren't proud of it.

sigfred Wednesday, March 07, 2001, 06:21:42
i just really started at asatru so i havn't told anyone yet as I become more comfortable in the ways of the aseir and vanier maybe I will tell.actually I'm not shure I'm asatru even I might be an atheist I had about given up on religion but asatru seems to make alot more sense than christianity, at least it has less hipocrisy

Ryan Fairhair Tuesday, March 06, 2001, 07:41:18
My father is a secular reformist Jew and late mother was agnostic with a Lutheran backgroud. Although she had inherited through our family hamingja certain empathic/psychic abilities like her father and her grandmother before her. I also inherited some of these abilities, but in stronger and different contexts because I am the one of the first in my family in centuries to accept Asatru and our Norwegian & German ancestors ways. I mother and her family always accepted me being in Asatru. However I am very careful and respectful not to devulge much of my Asatru beliefs with my father's side of the family. My father's side of the family are Reformist Jews and due to the experience of the Holocaust they are very narrow minded of people of Germanic heritedge so I don't say much to any of them except for my father, he was a hippie in the '60s so he's accepting of it. My girlfriend is a Wiccan so she accepted me being in Asatru from the beginning. I don't have a lot of friends, but my best friend and his fiance are Gothic so they accept me for who I am too. The majority of my Asatru and Heathen friends I have gained online, but I do have some real-life Asatru friends.

Rfrano@gentel.net Wednesday, February 28, 2001, 01:44:36
Anytime the issue of "religion" comes up, or if a conversation drifts into the topic of 'Morality', or whatever, if appropriate, I 'identify'. Additionally, ANYONE who 'dares' to prosetylize me, particularly if some sub-varient of Christianity, (the 'watchtower' folk come to mind), I immediatly note in a semi-loud, non-aggressive tone, my "Neo-Pagan-Northern-Rite" P.O.V.

ThorinSkald Thursday, February 22, 2001, 06:23:15
Greetings! This is a tough one for me, as I'm sure it is for many, as I was raised a Christian, and all of my family are of that religous belief. Even my wife, who I hold dear to my soul, still clings to the "new" religion. However, many of my friends know I am of the Norse Tradition, and as both a storyteller and a substitute teacher in public schools, I am able to spread our "good news"--that there is more than one way to worship, and that not everyone believes in one god. Many of the students I speak (not preach) to about this subject are shocked at first, but many are realizing that what I say is true. Wearing my Thor hammer that from a distance may look like an upside down cross helps to break the ice, and get them to ask questions and to wonder why anyone would leave "God". I ask them if it is not right for one group of people to dominate another, why is it okay for one religion to do so. They have no answer to this. And then they want to know more!

Mattias Sunday, December 17, 2000, 19:09:08
Why hide something you belive in? Most christian and muslims dont.

Kane MacTuathal Friday, December 15, 2000, 05:29:40
Only my close friends and relatives know.

Lisa Friday, November 03, 2000, 17:53:59
I tell anyone who asks. The only people I'm keeping it from are my in-laws, at my husband's request. (He is also Asatru, but has a very unstable relationship with his parents)

Hélio Wednesday, August 16, 2000, 02:27:15
To be more exact, just some pagan friends of mine know, the others ignore it or think that there's something.

D. Hansen-Kash Wednesday, August 09, 2000, 11:16:07
Sometimes it's hard to let people know of your troth. When my mom found out that I was Asatru, she broke down crying because I was going to hell & that criminals would have a better chance at "repentance" than me.

f.P.Molina Tuesday, May 09, 2000, 18:44:04
I was never quite sure until now of what it was called. Just what i believed. People ask what religion and I couldn't tell them.

Waytamer Saturday, April 29, 2000, 17:24:15
Being bold is a hallmark of Asatru (Vanatru and whatever else you even try and call the prechristian religion of the Teutonic people). Some hide their Troth, and maybe its just me, but that seems rather weak and cowardly.

Rob R Saturday, February 26, 2000, 20:05:53
I usually keep it to myself unless someone asks. Then I tell 'em what my deal is. If they like that, fine. If they don't, then they know what to kiss. Fuck 'em.

kyle the vitkar Wednesday, December 08, 1999, 17:08:51
hey i wish i could just come out and tell everyone my religious views, but christianity is the predominant religion, and you know how intolerant monotheists can be.

Poll opened July 8, 1999.