The Keys to Creation
Language is one of our primary tools of expression, yet it is also one of the greatest hindrances of understanding.

The development of a written alphabet allowed us to preserve our wisdom and discoveries for future generations. Ironically, that same wisdom became obscured through the very language created to preserve it. Without a universal alphabet, learning and experience became fragmented by the different languages each culture evolved.  Furthermore, words within a single language shifted in meaning and purpose as the culture that created them changed and grew.  Even within a single generation, each individual evolves their own meanings and connotation to the words they use.  Language has become the Tower of Babel, a confusion of inflection and meaning that renders true communication a difficult process at best.

Life and Spirit, however, have within them a means to transcend this limitation. Our very nature allows for the recognition and comprehension of symbols that strike a deep chord in our hearts, bypassing the "thinking mind" and invoking a more intuitive response and recognition. These archetypal forms provide a common framework upon which we can build a new understanding and communion with the world around us. The common themes and characters expressed in the mythologies of radically different cultures is an example of this intuitive process of perception and expression.

Runes are another example of such a process. 

The symbology of most runic systems serves a different purpose than that of an alphabet.  The letters of an alphabet are designed to be strung together to express a word which in turn is connected to other words to create a sentance.  Alphabets must be learned and understood in order to serve their purpose.

Runes, on the other hand, are a complete thought within themselves.  If you remove the word "stop" from a stop sign, most of us would still apply the brakes if we saw a red octagon with a white border.  The symbol has a complete meaning to us, even without the word.  By disengaging the cognitive part of our minds - the part that assembles letters into words into sentances - the runic symbol allows for a deeper, more intuitive response.

The runes gathered here express fundamental concepts of life and creation. They are not associated with any tribe or culture... each one was created by the artist in the spirit of revealing a touchstone, an anchor point from which we can explore more deeply the possibilities of our existence.  

Runes and Their Meanings
The recognition and meaning of Runes is a deeply intimate and personal process. Each of us perceives the world through unique perceptions defined by our equally singular experiences. With such diversity as the foundation of life, one can’t expect to uncover a simple alphabet that everyone understands. We must look deeper, into the heart of our being, and see through the eyes of the spirit that shares a common thread with the entire weave of Creation.

The descriptions presented for each Rune may conflict with your personal interpretation. Rather than being a flaw in the definition, this is a wonderful opportunity for exploration. Any system of expression or discovery reveals as much about the creator of the system as it does the world it intends to explore. It is encouraged that you use the descriptions provided as a starting point from which you can diverge as your desires lead you to new discoveries. There are no “laws” to the system of life... only the truth that each heart creates.

Using the Runes
There is no “correct” or “proper” way to employ a Rune. Any power or influence derived from them is a direct result of your intent and the application of your will. Consequently, these two factors - intent and will - are what will determine your “success” with Rune workings.

Meditation
Meditation is an excellent start for any kind of Rune work. Examine the Rune closely, letting your eyes explore the flow of line and curve. Learn the Rune in the context of its shape and form. During this exploration, pay close attention to your feelings. These initial responses to the form of the Rune are the first stirrings of the Rune’s meaning to you.

Once you have the Rune firmly in your mind, you may use it as a focus point for meditation. With your eyes open or closed, release the rune in your mind and allow it to flow as it will. This is the dialogue between you and the Rune. This exchange can take many forms - the Rune may serve as a gate or portal, or it may draw up images that surround it. Whatever form your meditation takes, this inner dialogue can become a vehicle for profound discovery.

Activation
The idea behind activating a Rune is simply the fixing of the Rune within your awareness. Some people find a ceremonial “awakening” of the Rune to be effective. Others simply carry it in their pocket or around their neck. The idea is to bring the Rune into your awareness in whatever way is appropriate for you. Once a Rune is active in your mind, the essence of its meaning to you is released into your life. The results are difficult to predict, but rest assured that changes in perception and experience are bound to follow.

As with all things in life, your intent is the language with which you talk to the world. It is important to be very clear in your expressed desires during any Rune work. Writing your goals and desires down is a time-honored way of clarifying your intent within your own heart. Wrapping a Rune in a strip of paper on which you have written your desires will align the Rune in your heart, assigning a focus and application to the essence of the Rune’s meaning. Including the Rune as a part of your daily affirmations is another way to incorporate intent and will into your awareness of the Rune.

Whatever method you feel is most appropriate is the “right” method. The key is to establish your personal relationship of understanding with the Rune and then invoke it into your heart and your life. The universe will understand.