Einherjar: Lone Fighters

I was reading somewhere else online (another heathen blog, perhaps) that the old norse name for the warriors in Valhalla, 'einherjar' literally means something along the lines of 'those who fight alone'.

The writer in question explained that viking warriors were trained in all aspects of combat and could be thought of as 'a one-man army'. Thus, they were well prepared for and perfectly able to fight alone, even outside of the shield wall, if necessary.

All of this I agreed with and admire, but it was at this point that the writer went on to use this to explain the importance, for them, of time alone.

I don't really feel that the importance of alone time (whoever enjoyable that might be) was the lesson to take from this. Rather, I think the more valuable attribute (especially in this modern age and in an overcrowded nation such as the UK) was the importance of self reliance.

Being able to operate, provide for oneself and even thrive - alone - is a very admirable trait. Especially in contemporary society, in which we are expect, and required, to rely on others for everything. Our food, our security, our entertainment, fixing our tools and even making decisions for the direction of our lives and the upbringing of our families - all are provided by third parties. This can leave us over-reliant and unable to fend for ourselves, if we are not careful.

So, perhaps, in a time where striving to be ferocious, ruthless warriors is frowned upon, being something of a Renaissance Man is the next best thing for the modern heathen?

Less than ideal job: What would the vikings do?

Here I am, working (unpaid) overtime for a job I loathe, and I can't help but wonder to myself, what would the original norse heathens or those of the Viking age have thought about my situation?

Would they expect me to pull up my big boy pants and simply endure? Putting up with the daily grind, lack of appreciation and depressing work life in the name of supporting my family?

Or perhaps they'd respect me more if I stood up and took action? Maybe working to change the situation here at my workplace, or to go out and try to find another company that will appreciate me better?

What I do understand, is that the raiders known as Vikings were very entrepreneurial sorts and would be looking out for an opportunity to earn fortune and fame, rather than bitching about their situation on their blog. Had they had blogs back then, of course.