Weird Warriors: Embracing the Wonderful World of ‘Wyrd’

How being a weirdo can be a good thing.

“Weird" is a term that has long been used to describe the peculiar, the odd and the downright strange. It's a word that can be seen as incredibly insulting, depending on the context - and it's often applied to anyone who doesn't quite fit the mold. But before you fret about being called  a "weirdo," it’s useful to explore the intriguing etymology of this word (and reveal its hidden meaning).

You see, "weird" didn't always carry the connotation of oddness that it does today. It can be traced back to the Old English word "wyrd," which refers to the concept of fate or personal destiny. Wyrd was believed to be an unseen force that governed the lives of individuals, binding them to their destinies through an intricate tapestry of events. The concept was closely linked to the Norse idea of the Norns, three powerful female figures who determined the course of human lives by spinning the threads of destiny. In this sense, being "weird" meant being in tune with one's own fate and having the power to shape it. 

People who were thought to have a deeper connection to or understanding of the workings of fate and destiny might have been seen as more attuned to the forces of "wyrd." Such individuals could include seers, shamans, or wise folk who were believed to possess special knowledge or insight into the workings of fate. They might have been consulted for guidance or prophecy, as their connection to "wyrd" was thought to give them a unique ability to foresee and interpret the events and circumstances that shape people's lives. Although these individuals were not specifically referred to as "wyrd," their perceived connection to the concept of fate would have made them stand out as exceptional or unusual within their communities

Some of the most influential figures in history were considered weird in their time. Think of the likes of Van Gogh, who was once deemed a madman for his unorthodox painting style, or Einstein, who was thought to be a daydreamer who'd never amount to anything. And let's not forget Nikola Tesla, a genius inventor whose ideas were often considered too radical for his contemporaries. How about Emily Dickinson, the reclusive poet whose groundbreaking work was largely unappreciated until after her death? And who could ignore the flamboyance of Freddie Mercury, the legendary Queen frontman who defied gender norms and expectations to become an icon in the world of music?

These individuals didn't let their weirdness hold them back—instead, they harnessed it and changed the world. So, whether you're a collector of vintage toothbrushes, a sea shanty aficionado or simply someone who dares to march to the beat of your own drum, let your weirdness shine.

Embrace your inner spiritual warrior, and remember that in the wonderful world of wyrd, your weirdness is your greatest weapon.