Recently I wrote about how I created rituals to help support me through having cancer this year. One ritual I didn’t mention was one that hasn’t happened yet, but will this weekend.
When I knew I was going to have a hysterectomy due to cervical cancer, I decided I wanted to honor the body parts that were going to be surgically removed. What better way to do that than to have a Viking funeral to send my warrior uterus off to Valhalla? So I started thinking about what that might entail. When I told a friend about my plan, she asked me what I was going to use for a boat. I didn’t know. “I would like to whittle you a boat,” she immediately offered. And just as quickly I accepted.
Little did I know that a short time later she would present me with the breathtaking boat in the above photo. I was speechless with awe and gratitude. She had not discussed the design with me at all, but when I saw the boat I knew that it was absolutely perfect. For one thing, I have always loved wolves. For another thing, the wolf head on the bow of the boat is lifted up as if the wolf is howling. My friend had not yet seen my new book, but there is a photo of a wolf howling on the cover that looks just like the wolf on the boat. Miraculous synchronicity.
I called her to gush over the boat. “It’s a little rough,” she said. “I’ve never whittled anything before.” I was astonished. “What? So when I told you about the Viking funeral, you just spontaneously offered to whittle a boat?” “Yes,” she replied like it was no big deal.
It was a very big deal to me. I placed the boat in front of Kuan Yin to soak in blessings until it was time for its destiny to be fulfilled.
I wasn’t sure when that would be. I was waiting to sense that the timing was right. When I realized that this Saturday would be exactly three months since my surgery, I knew that was the day.
So this Saturday morning, this amazing little sacred vessel will be released in the creek in front of my cabin, carrying the ashes of several symbolic mementos that I will burn in a fire ritual beforehand. (I can’t send the boat off aflame because I don’t want to start a forest fire!) I’m so pleased to be able to honor my experience in this way, thanks to my wonderful friend who so generously and skillfully attuned herself to this process and produced something so exquisitely perfect.
Destiny is all! ~Uthred, The Last Kingdom
What a heartfelt post Galen! I was inspired by our dear friendship. Never whittling before was not going to stop me. My inner Viking led the way! Love you forever!
Intrepid Whittler, you are the best!! I will be sorry to let that little boat sail off down the creek, but I know it will be happy to carry out its destiny. I’ll take some photos to send you. Love you forever right back!
What a nice story. Your friend is an excellent wood carver. May the little boat reach safe harbor in Valhalla.
What a beautiful sentiment, Collin. Thank you.
Rituals really do help us through life and beyond. That carved boat is amazing. It will represent much to you, Galen, and I know it is a reminder of the love of a friend. Beautiful!
You described it all perfectly, Pam. Thank you.
“my warrior uterus” love it!
So glad, Jay! Thanks.
I just finished watching a show where there is a Valkyrie who visits Valhalla. I love the sound of your ritual and oh, that beautiful boat! Please tell your friend how gorgeous it is! I envisage your ritual going peacefully and bringing you a load of happiness. Much love to you!
It really was great. It was a perfect day and I was very pleased with how it all unfolded. It was hard to release that brave little vessel, but I knew that this voyage was its destiny, so off it went down the creek and on to Valhalla. Love you back, Vidya!
My Dear Friend Beth,
I am surprised and concerned for you. I’m so glad that you’ve finished your surgery.. I hope you are feeling well .
What a beautiful tribute from your friend.. May it bring continued comfort..
Much love to you, Jackie
Thank you, Jackie, for your sweet comment. I am feeling great. I’ve recovered very well from surgery and now just focused on getting my strength and stamina back. I’ve resumed my martial arts practice and I’m adding in more exercise. It all feels good. And yes, that was a beautiful tribute from my friend. That little vessel sailed off down the creek dreaming of the magnificent Viking boats of history. Hope you are doing well. Email me and let’s catch up. Love, Galen