The way Odin learned
Odin went through a lot to acquire knowledge. He seemed to think it was worth almost any suffering, lie losing one eye or even dying. There might not be many similarities between our modern world and the world Odin lived in. But the knowledge of what’s important isn’t less valid because of that.
In my feed, especially on Instagram, there are loads of posts with self-help, advice and instructions on how to become wealthy, rich or happy. I think people today seek the same kind of comfort that Odin was seeking, but in another context, and in a completely different way.
Odin was willing to sacrifice everything for knowledge and wisdom. Today, I know of very few that are willing to sacrifice that much to accompany him amongst the wise and knowledgable. Rather, we’ve come to a point in time where we want everything yesterday. If somethings are to be sacrificed, it’s our enjoyment now, so that we can have it later.
Sacrificing Saturday nights out with your friends, at least in my book, isn’t the same as sacrificing your life hanging from a tree for nine days. And it sure as hell doesn’t mean you’re become filthy rich in a couple of years. I can testify that, having been to about two handfuls of parties in my 23 years alive.
What I believe we can learn from the stories of Odin is really the utter and complete desire to acquire knowledge. The full hearted devotion to becoming something greater than anyone ever had witnessed. Becoming a better god, a better leader and a better philosopher. Becoming wiser.
He did it, not in order to gain wealth. Of course, the stories are many where the gods of Asgard raid and plunder, but I don’t really see the desire of power from Odin. I see curiosity. Wisdom for the sake of wisdom.
And thus, I ask you to rather than reading one book a day in order to become a millionaire before you’re 30, to read because it’s fun. Because you enjoy reading and learning. Because you desire to become better at whatever matters to you and those close to you. That kind of meaning will beat any desire for money. I think Odin would testify for that.
