Fetter: (noun) "a chain or manacle used to restrain a prisoner." In Buddhist teachings there are said to be ten "fetters" (samyojana) which hold back our progress in this life. In 2009 Joshua laid in a Beijing hostel room, 750 yards away from Tiananmen Square, for 2 days, waiting for his friend to leave China, so that he could kill himself for being gay. The author prayed to God for 15 years to heal the so-called "sinful desires." In that hostel room he began to realize there was never any sin to begin with. This book is told through the author's personal experiences growing up in the Christian American South; before expanding into the broader patriarchal, political, religious, and historical reasons that have caused so much unnecessary confusion & pain for individuals in the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. Lessons of empowerment are interspersed with poetry and photography by the author. Philosophical reasoning and quantum consciousness are discussed as the author broadens a blueprint of hope for individuals reclaiming their personal freedom. From 2012-2018 the author worked as a respected investigator for Child Protective Services of Texas. Social workers routinely respond to cases of children and teenagers who have self-harmed as they discover their sexual orientations or gender identities are non-heteronormative. Many of these teens do not have supportive parents and are further disempowered by their local communities during these important formative years. In short, kids were wanting to kill themselves for being gay, queer, or questioning their identities. These are many of our stories. That was Joshua's story too. Something had to change. This book was written in hopes that future generations won't live in a world where these stories need to be told anymore. It is the author's intention that each reader will walk away from this story with the same self-confidence, love, and acceptance written within these pages. One day we will be able to write new stories void of systemic or religious oppression. Until then we must each become a change agent for the greater good of all humans. Joshua broke the Violent Fetters and walked into living exactly as we are all meant to live: free, empathetic, joyful, connected to Earth, and with hopeful empowerment for all humankind.

In 'The Spirit of the Vikings,' readers are presented with a rich tapestry of narratives that encapsulate the essence of Viking history, mythology, and the profound impact of Nordic culture on the world stage. The anthology spans a range of literary forms, from the poetic eddas and sagas, traditionally attributed to figures like Snorri Sturluson and Saemund Sigfusson, to more contemporary analyses and retellings by scholars such as Hélène Adeline Guerber and Nora Kershaw. This compilation stands out for its diversity in approach and narrative style, offering unparalleled insights into the myths that have shaped modern perceptions of Viking society and their enduring legacy. Through this varied literary landscape, the collection demonstrates the nuanced and often misunderstood nature of Viking history and mythology. The contributing authors and editors, each renowned for their contributions to the study of Norse culture, bring a variety of perspectives and academic backgrounds to the anthology. Figures like Conrad Hjalmar Nordby and Sturla Þórðarson, alongside anonymous skalds, provide a bridge between the ancient and modern, shedding light on the evolving interpretation and appreciation of Viking literature. Their collective works reflect significant cultural and literary movements, blending historical narratives with legendary tales that have been passed down through generations. This anthology serves not only as an academic resource but also as a fascinating exploration for anyone interested in the profound depth of Norse mythology and history. 'The Spirit of the Vikings' offers readers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the diverse narratives that make up the Viking age. By presenting a multitude of perspectives, styles, and themes, this collection highlights the rich literary heritage and complex societal structures of these ancient peoples. For scholars, enthusiasts, and casual readers alike, this anthology promises an educational and engaging experience, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the influences that have shaped not only Scandinavian culture but also the broader world narrative.

DigiCat presents to you a meticulously edited collection of Norse Mythology and Literature. This ebook has been designed and formatted to the highest digital standards and adjusted for readability on all devices. Content: The Elder Eddas of Saemund The Younger Eddas of Sturleson Norse Sagas Kings' Sagas Sagas of Icelanders Legendary Sagas Norse Ballads Norse Mythology: The Beginning Odin Frigga Thor Tyr Bragi Idun Niörd Frey Freya Uller Forseti Heimdall Hermod Vidar Vali The Norns The Valkyrs Hel Ægir Balder Loki The Giants The Dwarfs The Elves The Sigurd Saga The Story of Frithiof The Twilight of the Gods Greek and Northern Mythologies

A Jewish zealot who watched Roman soldiers kill his father and pillage his homeland is charged with a mission that could destroy or free Israel.

This meticulously edited DigiCat publication is dedicated to the lost but not forgotten world of the ferocious Norsemen. Norse Mythology: The Beginning Odin Frigga Thor Tyr Bragi Idun Niörd Frey Freya Uller Forseti Heimdall Hermod Vidar Vali The Norns The Valkyrs Hel Ægir Balder Loki The Giants The Dwarfs The Elves The Sigurd Saga The Story of Frithiof The Twilight of the Gods Greek and Northern Mythologies History of the Vikings: Causes of the Viking Movement The Viking Movement Down to the Middle of the 9th Century The Vikings in England to the Death of Harthacnut The Vikings in the Frankish Empire to the Founding of Normandy (911) The Vikings in Ireland to the Battle of Clontarf (1014) The Vikings in the Orkneys, Scotland, the Western Islands and Man The Vikings in Baltic Lands and Russia Viking Civilisation Scandinavian Influence in the Orkneys, Shetlands, the Western Islands and Man Scandinavian Influence in Ireland Scandinavian Influence in England Scandinavian Influence in the Empire and Iceland Eddas & Sagas: The Elder Eddas of Saemund The Younger Eddas of Sturleson Norse Sagas Kings' Sagas Sagas of Icelanders Legendary Sagas Norse Ballads: The Faroese Ballad of Nornagest The Faroese Ballad of Hjalmar and Angantyr The Danish Ballad of Angelfyr and Helmer The Faroese Ballad of Arngrim's Sons The Faroese Riddle Ballad The Shetland Ballad of Hildina