Ásatrú is something that is both new and old, spiritual and earthbound, and family oriented and individualist, all at once. People tend to practice Ásatrú based on what they consider to be the "right" way, but the reality is, there is far too little evidence to dictate exactly how the ancients practiced and lived their religious beliefs.
The evidence that is provided is beautiful and enlightening, as well as mysterious and perverted. The Christian elements that are found within what is considered sacred texts, can be deleted from the text with no ill effect to the meaning, yet their presence demands contemplation regarding the history. The underlying message of the heathens is present evermore, but as with the Holy Bible, the interpretations depend on the individual. But is this such a bad thing?
Religion is personal, as it should be, and to pretend your involvement is more important than another's personal involvement with their religion is ignorant at best. Personal interpretation is what is most important, providing the individual not become stagnant when it comes to spiritual growth and enlightenment.
Spirit, is not being used here to represent a ghost or supernatural being that resides within living things, but the life force that is nature, and that moves all living things. It is not a sense of the supernatural or otherworldly as it is completely natural, and certainly of this world, though very much a mystery to us humans.
Enlightenment is not being used here in a Buddhist sense, marking the attained state of absense of desire and/or suffering; rather, it is an ongoing process. The enlightenment of the Ásatrúar is attained through personal reflection, strife and success, and self-discovery through the northern mysteries of the ancient folk and ancestors.
Going back to interpretation, the materials we have that extend what knowledge is available to us as Ásatrúar, may be considered the roots from which we may grow. Our paths--our Wyrd--is designed by our choices, while our interaction with each other forms our "destiny"--our Ørlog--and both are affected by our interaction with cosmic nature (Irminsul/Yggdrasil).
Ásatrúar may vary on opinions as to what is the true Ásatrú, but I think it is up to the individual to decide, and once they have decided, then, that truly is Ásatrú.
