Why Finnish Myths Matter Now More Than Ever

Sometimes, the oldest stories hold the answers we need most. As I watch the world wrestle with questions of climate and care, I find myself returning to the wisdom hidden in Finnish myths — reminders of a time when every living thing was honored, and nature was never taken for granted.

We are facing what may be the worst climate crisis humanity has ever witnessed — all because of our own actions, our selfishness and recklessness. And yet, we’re still debating whether we should do something about it, as if caring for nature is some huge sacrifice.

But really, it’s just a return to how things used to be. How we once lived.

In old Finnish beliefs, nature was sacred and protected.

Every tree, rock, patch of land, and creature had its own spirit, and was to be treated with respect and kindness. You never took more than you needed. You said thank you when nature provided. Instead of killing ants, spiders, or bees, you gently carried them outside and wished them a safe journey. (I’ve always done this — automatically! Maybe it really is in our genes.)

No living thing was more important than another — not even us.

Trouble began when we forgot this. When we started acting as if the earth belonged to us alone, as if everyone else was insignificant. But honestly, perhaps the only ones who are insignificant… are us. We are the only ones who don’t give back, who only take.

There is so much to learn from Finnish myths and old beliefs.

And that is why I feel such a strong connection with them.

They might just save us.