[GenryDont]

So far, I'd have to say I agree with what has been said.

Most esoteric endeavors are fraught with the possibilities of someone, or group, getting out of control or way ahead of themselves. Anytime there is not a clear history and/or set of standards we will be faced with making decisions based on unknowns or best guess opinions.

I've been a solitary 'scholar' for many years now, taking the time and effort to absorb everything I can get my hands, and brain, on concerning the Old Ways of the Nordics and specifically the runes and Viking culture. However, having spent a year in Norway/Sweden, studying for myself, finding answers not written in books, meeting professors of Nordic history, digging with archaeologists, attending Pagan festivals etc., I am now absolutely convinced that I may never truly know much more than the basics about my ancestors way of life.

On the other hand, in order to truly get oneself educated, on any subject, there comes that dismal day we must rub shoulders with others. Especially the more esoteric Orders, Gilds or Covens, finding a group that best fits our personal goals or need is indeed difficult.

A 'goodesotericgroup', in my opinion, is one that:

1.) Has an well developed outline of the subject matter, principles and listed goals for the group/coven/hof/guild/etc

2.) Has extensive resources on what is known about the subject and is accepted by the majority of experts in that field

3.) Has open minded, well versed and highly educated leadership (in that subject and by academic standards)

4.) Promotes all apprentices/students that show a given talent or expertise...even if it may be a bit off the mainstream line of thinking

5.) Values each 'member' as an integral part of the learning process for all (excluding the obvious or blatant disruptor/distractor etc)

6.) Allows for a broad range of individual expressions for the ideas and principles that are the main goal or purpose of the group

For instance; In my arena, the rune-staves and runic divination, there is very little historical reference to the uses of the symbols beyond that of a writing system primarily inscribed by Dark Age through Medieval (ca. 400CE-1100CE) Scandinavians, Germanics and Celts. Little is known in academic circles of the esoteric gilds and divination aspects that have existed since roughly 500BCE concerning majikal uses of the runes.

However, get oneself promoted, through hard work, diligent study and of course the right connections, to a place of being invited inside the core groups of Drightens, Vitki's, Druids and Shaman, and whole new world opens up to begin yet another adventure in learning. A person may just happen to find that what mainstream academics know, and what your Drighten (professor/leader/top-dog) knows, are two vastly separate and different worlds of exposure and education.

When studying and researching by yourself though, you must be able to discern the difference of Internet garbage knowledge and the real thing. In my area, I'd say >95% of what is available via Internet is absolute trash. This is because of vast difference between those that wish to promote themselves and enhance their personal financial goals and those who have a hands on working knowledge of the topic.

Unfortunately, this is true is Wicca, Druidism, Runic, Satanism and the myriad of esoteric subjects. There is more "Prof. Smith is wrong" and "Dr. Jones is right" than actual, firmly held knowledge on these areas of study. Having an open mind and a real good bs detector is the quantum physics of any esoteric study or Path.

Outside of that, any group that follows the list above, in loose to firmly held beliefs, should give a person years of enjoyment as well as a sound education.

Go forth and be ed-jum-a-kated thou Solitary Soldier of Study!!!

Blessing of Peace,