Hey, guys!
I was just curious about how everyone here feels about Odin, and how he's been to all of you. Do you guys work with him regularly, or do you keep him at arm's length? It would be really rad to hear about your experiences with him, and your opinions on the guy. So. Yeah :)
I haven't had many experiences with Odin, about one or two encounters. They weren't bad experiences, I just don't work with Odin. To me, at first, he was a bit intimidating, but that sense of intimidation died down when I took an interest in runes.
His many aspects make him an interesting god, and I enjoy learning about him. I have nothing against Odin, he's just not a deity I would personally work with.
I would agree that he is intimidating at first. Being a god or war and fury will definitely give one that image. However, he is also a god of magic, poetry, and wisdom and enjoys knowledge and learning new things. He has a whole lot of wisdom to offer, and I barely scratched the surface when I worked with him regularly.
I have previously read some of Galina's works. They are lovely, however she has been shown to be Islamophobic in many of her various comments online. Due to this, I personally do not recommend her works anymore.
My opinion is know what you are getting into; read His lore and talk directly to people who've worked with or worshipped Him. I personally avoid Him because not everyone who meets Him has a good experience or opinion.
I've worked indirectly with him three times. The first time was during a meditation. The second time was during a Heathen Blot and the third time was again during a meditation. I find him very Gung Ho and Overpowering. Not one to take guff. My Heathen friends say the same thing about him. I've not worked with him beyond those three things, so I have no idea what he's like when you get on his good side, LOL.
I find Odin to be many things, you can find what you need in him, much like a father.
I do not see a need to keep him at arm's length, if that means to be cautious.
If anything, my encounters with him leave me thinking he is vague enough and keeping *me* at an arms length.
But perhaps that is his way of letting you learn on your own, give you the clues and let you piece it together yourself.
The runes are clues, and these pieces are open to interpretation. As is reality! lol
my name Svipal is a kenning for his, "the Changeable". this is the aspect i identify with most, adaptability and flow! the flames of will and being are the only constant.