From the Decanter pour a libation, ( Wine, Beer, or Mead, your choice ) into two horns. One for you, and one for the Gods and Goddesses. Then say out loud :
I pour here a libation in honor of the great Gods and Goddesses of Vanaheim and Asgard. We have gathered here to mark the flow of time. The Autumnal Equinox is now upon us. We are thankful for the bountiful harvest that we have received from great mother Earth, Jord, this year. We are thankful for friends and family, both those living, and those who have passed into other realms. We are thankful for our health, careers, and to be living in the greatest nation in the world. But most of all we are thankful to our wonderful Gods and Goddesses, who have made this all possible. We are only but a dull shadow of Their greatness, but even that is a tremendous achievement. We, your children of Midgard, thank you from the depths of our hearts and souls, for all that you have done, and continue to do on our behalf.
All Hail Mighty Thor : Skal ! ( Drink )
All Hail All- father Odin : Skal ! ( Drink )
All Hail Magical Freyja : Skal ! ( Drink )
All Hail bountiful Freyr : Skal ! ( Drink )
All Hail harvest queen Sif : Skal ! ( Drink )
All Hail Mother Earth, Jord : Skal ! ( Drink )
Our joy is however, tempered by the knowledge that the days are growing shorter and that there is now a chill in the air when the sun slips over the horizon. The growing season is almost over and we see the first signs of color in the leaves upon the trees. This is our time to slow down and reflect back on the events that have taken place this year. A time to acknowledge our mistakes and failures, with just enough time to make amends for our short comings. This is also a time to build on our accomplishments and dream of loftier goals for next year, to make the Gods and Goddesses proud of Their children.( Mine is much longer but I think you get the idea).
Refill the horn(s) and sing hail to the Gods and Goddesses again !
At this time I like to read Havamal( aloud), and a poem or two about the Autumn season. The Gods seem to love poetry, especially if it comes from your heart.
When I am finished I write a pledge, or request, to the Gods and Goddesses on a small piece of paper. Without saying a word I place this pledge into my brazier and burn it . When I am sure that no flame or even smoke remains, I say softly to Var: Great keeper of Oaths I have sent you my solemn pledge. Please hold my pledge great Var, I promise I will keep this oath, and all my oaths to the All - Mighty Gods and Goddesses.
Next : Part 3 : Ending the Ritual
Glenn Bergen
Go with Odin's wisdom, Freyja's love and Thor's protection !