Sacrifice: Life and Death

By Goði Shea McCurdy

We all make sacrifices to get what we want. Often, it is effort, money, time, and energy focused on a goal. Other times, it is something more precious, such as a living entity that provides a substance to serve as a building material for the structure we rely upon.

Water is filtered and purified, allowing us a means of hydration without the side effects of waterborne illness that would live on through us. Grain is the life seed, yet to be sprouted for the next season’s generation. The same can be said about fruits and vegetables. Even collecting herbs is gathering life for our use.

Some people get emotional thinking about the life not sprouted, about the unnatural cessation of life, or about taking for oneself what could be left alone or reserved for other more worthy consumers. I was once exploring that “take only photos; leave only footprints” mentality as a young man. Soon, I came to the realization that without consuming, I was committing suicide. Neglecting my own worth devalues the potential contained in my existence as well as the sacrifices made by generations before to allow me an opportunity to provide worthy potential.

I have adhered to strict dietary regimens for my own health and the health of the ingredients I ingest. I am obliged to support those who raise living things in accordance with natural cycles and environmental perseverance. I want to support family ranches, dairies, farms, and kitchens that produce wholesome products for our and their best future.

When we eat food meant for corporate profit and GDP, our sacrifice is being demeaned by a lack of respect and care. When we take life from the earth, we ought to have reverence for its value, and when we do, its value increases.

This past weekend, Raven Folk United sacrificed a living goat, donated by a member for our blót ritual. This happy and well-spoiled goat had a name and lived a great life with a family that cared for him. He was treated with respect and care to ensure as little suffering as possible. Our ceremony was conducted with him as a guest of honor, sacrificed to Óðinn as a gift during this coming darkest time of year. We are blessed to have such beautiful beings for all of their abilities and constituents. All parts have value and what we didn’t eat are being processed, including the skull and hide. Sacrifices kept hidden from us to sustain our bodies most likely do not receive the same care and consideration, and certainly aren’t dedicated to the Father of the Slain. Let us consider how we have been separated from the processes used to provide for our appetites and become more connected to how we want those rites conducted. We do better by raising the standard from profane to sacred. We do better by at least holding the moment of harvest as an opportunity to show reverence and gratitude.