Statement IX of the Declaration of Purpose of the Asatru Folk Assembly reads “Life’s struggle is the whetstone that sharpens the sword of spirit. We should not regret the obstacles that confront us, but use them to grow ever stronger and wiser. Nor should we let them drain away our enjoyment of life. Let us live our lives with vigor – and when it is time to die, let us do that with dignity, honor, and grace.” This is a very important statement that all Asatruar should reflect on and seek to apply in their lives.
Some years ago, when I was a young man seeking to advance my interests and those of my family, via a variety of means (including mainstream politics), I heard of the works of Niccolo Machiavelli. Although these writings were directed towards princes (something I was not and never would be), I thought that I may be able to glean something useful from them. I read his Discourses on Livy, and, in the very first chapter, came across something that I took to heart, and has had an enduring impact on how I live my life. In this chapter, Machiavelli speaks about the founding of cities, and which type of locale is best for that purpose – an environment that is harsh, requiring more sacrifice and work from the inhabitants, or one in a more fruitful area, offering an easy life. Per old Niccolo, choosing the harder, more sterile clime would be beneficial, in “order that the inhabitants, being constrained to industry, and less corrupted by ease, may live in closer union”. Of a city founded in a pleasant and fruitful clime, he goes on to say “care must be had that hardships which the site does not enforce, shall be enforced by the laws; and that the example of those wise nations be imitated, who, inhabiting most fruitful and delightful countries, and such as were likely to rear a listless and effeminate race, unfit for all manly exercises, in order to obviate the mischief wrought by the amenity and relaxing influence of the soil and climate, subjected all who were to serve as soldiers to the severest training”. I reflected on this, and thought of the relative ease we, as moderns, have, compared to our forebears. We can see the results of this in many – slovenly, pampered, directionless, focused on diversions and childish entertainments. I resolved to always strive to challenge myself, physically and mentally, so as not to fall victim to the atrophies resulting from the abundance in our society.
Any life worth living will be a life that requires struggle. The most difficult challenges may not arise externally, but from within ourselves. Mastering oneself is the greatest of conquests, and one upon which all others are predicated. Through the adversities we face and overcome, be they internal or external, we are made stronger – the finest steel is forged in the hottest fire. We should embrace the chance to face obstacles in life, while retaining the ability to enjoy it’s delights.
Asatru Illinois 