Ancestors in heathenry

Over on the Asatru UK Facebook Group (linked for those with access) there is currently a discussion about ancestors and genealogy and how or whether these features in the members' heathen paths.

I was going to post another response in the thread there. As I was typing, however, I realised what I was saying didn't really add much to the discussion being held there. Not wanting to waste the impetus to type, though, I thought I'd relate it here. Just some of my musings on Ancestors in heathenry.

"I recall when I had my first heathen thoughts and experiences, I described my heathenry as very much tied up in the past, my ancestors and the land. I kind of stopped referring to it that way for a very long time as, if you're not careful, it can get very "blood and soil". Thankfully, as my understanding developed, I found my particular take on that was very inclusive - ~The Patels down the road have just as much of a positive influence on the community and the land as I do - likely more. Multiculturalism is not a weakeness as the alt-right would have us believe. It strengthens us and opens our minds and hearts to new ideas.

It can be problematic, however, to start thinking of heathenry in terms of heritage and ancestors - not just because of the alt-right, but also because it becomes something of a pissing contest placing value on Scandinavian surnames and dodgy genealogical research, rather than knowledge, wisdom, and character. I love my family and the ancestors that I remember, but I don't think that makes me any more heathen than someone with a more problematic family background. Neither would having an ancestor born in Sweden make me more heathen.

I do think, though, that some people with the aforementioned familial problems do tend to throw the baby out with the bathwater when rejecting ancestors as part of their heathenry. Those immediate family members who are alive now and have wronged you are a drop in the ocean compared to the totality of your ancestry. Family beliefs, situations and character can alter wildly over just a couple of generations. Much of the source material has family at its heart. The Icelandic sagas have many stories based on the trials and responsibilities of being part of a family. Many traits, such as wyrd, are said to be inherited down the family line.

Family is a big deal in heathenry. I'm not saying reconnection with abusive family is necessary, but very little genealogical research is required to find other role models or stories to sing at your next blot or symbel."

Perhaps I'll add to this later. If one or more of my ancestors reminds me to do so... ;)