Una - artist and retired teacher - is a member of the Ásatrú Association.
She explains what it means to her to be a “good boy” or an honorable man, in relation to the old Norse religion.
(summary)
“What matters most is the honor of being good, just, and present for others. In Viking society, especially during the time of Iceland’s settlement, even though there were battles, it was never considered honorable for many to attack a single person. There had to be balance between opponents. Harassment, deceit, or abuse of superiority were looked down upon. Speaking the truth, being honest, helping others, and improving the world around you, these were all highly valued. One who acted in this way was seen as honorable.
Respecting nature was also part of this ancient faith. Nature was not to be harmed or destroyed. Greed had no place in it; it was never considered a virtue.
Ásatrú is deeply respectful of nature, of others, of fairness. There’s too much talk about violence and conquests, which only concerned a short period. In reality, the old believers, those who followed the Æsir gods, did their best to live in harmony with those around them and with the world. It was a religion of respect, one that itself deserves to be respected.”