A Runemaster’s Life: Transformed by Curiosity and Wonder.

If there was a biography about you, what would the title be?

If there was ever a biography written about me, I believe the title would be “A Runemaster’s Life: Transformed by Curiosity and Wonder.” This title isn’t just a string of evocative words—it encapsulates the essence of my journey and the inner metamorphosis I’ve experienced over the years.


From an early age, I was drawn to the mysterious and the arcane. There was always a burning curiosity about the world, a desire to understand the hidden forces at play beneath the surface of everyday life. This relentless curiosity set me on a path that many might consider unconventional—a path into the ancient wisdom of runes and the symbolic language of our ancestors.

As I delved deeper into the study of runes, I discovered that they weren’t merely relics of a bygone era. Instead, they served as mirrors reflecting the intricacies of human existence. Every rune, with its unique shape and meaning, told a story of transformation, of life’s continual ebb and flow. In embracing this ancient wisdom, I found a way to reframe my own life’s narrative. The runes became both my guides and my teachers, helping me navigate personal challenges and celebrate triumphs with a fresh, enlightened perspective.

The word “Transformed” in the title speaks volumes about my personal evolution. Life, for me, has been a series of metamorphoses—moments when curiosity and wonder nudged me out of my comfort zone, inviting me to explore new territories, both externally and within. Every twist and turn of my journey has been a testament to the power of questioning, of never settling for a surface-level understanding of the world. Instead, I’ve embraced the unknown, using the wisdom of ancient symbols to shed light on the modern human experience.

And then there’s “Wonder.” Wonder is the spark that ignites the flame of discovery. It’s what keeps the spirit of inquiry alive, even in the face of life’s inevitable uncertainties. Wonder has been the catalyst for my continuous exploration—a reminder that there is always more to learn, more to see, and more to become. It has transformed mundane experiences into opportunities for growth and deep reflection.

In essence, “A Runemaster’s Life: Transformed by Curiosity and Wonder” isn’t just a title—it’s a celebration of a journey that marries the mystical with the everyday. It captures the spirit of someone who has dared to look beyond the obvious, to decode the hidden messages of life, and to emerge continually renewed and inspired.

A Reflection on Roles, Harmony, and Partnership

What were your parents doing at your age?


When I think about my parents and what they were doing at my age, I’m struck by how different their lives were from mine—and yet, how much I can learn from the way they navigated their roles, responsibilities, and relationship. Their story is a testament to the beauty of partnership, even in the absence of what we might now call “equality.” It’s a story of balance, mutual respect, and an unspoken understanding that sometimes, life is about giving a little more so that the other can thrive. 


My father was a self-made man, a toolmaker by trade. By the time he was my age, he was already working for himself, repairing valves and running his own small business. He had a factory—a rented space in a huge warehouse filled with his equipment and machinery. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was his. He took pride in his work, in providing for his family, and in the independence that came with being his own boss. His days were long, and his hands were often stained with grease, but he never complained. For him, his role was clear: he was the provider, the one who ensured there was food on the table and a roof over their heads. 


My mother, on the other hand, was at home. Her world revolved around making sure my father had everything he needed to succeed in his role. She cooked, cleaned, and managed the household, ensuring that he returned each day to a warm meal and a tidy home. Her work was never-ending, but she approached it with the same dedication and pride that my father brought to his factory. She saw her role as just as vital as his—not because society told her it was, but because she understood that their partnership was a delicate balance. She was the caretaker, the one who created the stability and comfort that allowed him to focus on his work. 


At first glance, their dynamic might seem outdated by today’s standards. There was no discussion of equality, no splitting of chores or debates about who should do what. My father had his role, and my mother had hers. But what’s remarkable is that neither of them saw their roles as diminishing the other. They didn’t keep score or resent the other for what they did or didn’t do. Instead, they lived in a kind of harmony—a give-and-take that acknowledged the ebb and flow of life. 


There were times when my father had to work late into the night, leaving my mother to manage everything on her own. And there were times when my mother needed extra support, and my father stepped up without hesitation. They understood that life isn’t always fair or balanced, and that sometimes, one person has to carry a little more weight so that the other can catch their breath. But over time, they knew, these things evened out. 
Their relationship wasn’t perfect, but it was rooted in mutual respect and a deep understanding of each other’s value. They didn’t need to prove who was more important because they both knew they were essential to the life they had built together. It was a partnership in the truest sense—one where they celebrated each other’s contributions and didn’t let pride or ego get in the way of their shared goals. 
As I reflect on their lives at my age, I can’t help but admire the simplicity and depth of their connection. They didn’t have the language of modern relationships or the frameworks we use today to define equality and partnership. But they had something perhaps even more powerful: an unshakable commitment to each other and a willingness to give and take without keeping score. 


In a world that often feels obsessed with fairness and balance, their story reminds me that sometimes, the most important thing isn’t who does what, but how much we’re willing to give—and how deeply we appreciate what the other brings to the table. 


What were my parents doing at my age? They were building a life together, one valve repair and one home-cooked meal at a time. And in doing so, they taught me that true harmony isn’t about equality—it’s about love, respect, and the willingness to carry each other when the load gets heavy.

The Physiology of Life’s Transformative Phases

How do significant life events or the passage of time influence your perspective on life?

Life is a series of initiations, each event marking the beginning of a new phase that reshapes our thoughts, beliefs, and sense of self. From the moment we take our first steps into the world, our physiological and psychological systems are constantly adapting to the demands of these transitions. Each phase brings its own challenges, rewards, and transformations, influencing how we perceive life and our place within it.

The earliest major life event for many of us is going to school. This is often our first taste of independence, a physiological and emotional shift from the safety of home to the broader world of exploration. Initially, this change might trigger anxiety or tears—a natural stress response to unfamiliar environments. But soon, our bodies and minds adapt. We begin to crave the freedom to explore, to push boundaries, and to learn. This phase lays the foundation for our cognitive and emotional development, as we start to understand the world beyond our immediate surroundings.

As we enter adolescence, the yearning for freedom evolves into a deeper search for individuality. Physiologically, this is a time of rapid hormonal changes, which influence our emotions and behaviors. The brain’s prefrontal cortex, responsible for decision-making and self-control, is still developing, which explains the rebellious streak often associated with teenagers. We begin to reject the group identity imposed on us, striving instead to define our unique selves. This phase is marked by a physiological and psychological struggle—balancing the need for independence with the desire for acceptance.

For many, the next significant phase is the transition to higher education or professional training. For me, this meant studying engineering at university. This stage is characterized by intellectual exploration and innovation. The brain’s capacity for abstract thinking and problem-solving is at its peak, and we begin to seek meaning and belonging. Whether through academic pursuits, religious groups, or social circles, we search for a place where our individuality is accepted. This phase often involves forming deep friendships and engaging in collaborative endeavors, which further shape our identity and worldview.

Entering the workforce marks another profound shift. The focus turns to building a stable career and achieving financial independence. Physiologically, this phase is driven by the brain’s reward system, as we derive satisfaction from accomplishments and recognition. However, it’s also a time of breaking free from past influences and challenging existing beliefs. Spiritually, we may explore new paths, seeking answers to life’s bigger questions. The drive to succeed is strong, but the eagerness of youth is often met with skepticism from those who have already navigated this phase.

For me, the pendulum swung back to individuality when I left formal employment to start my own business. The thrill of controlling my destiny was empowering, and the physiological response to this newfound freedom was exhilarating. Success built upon success, and the brain’s reward pathways were constantly activated. However, life has its ups and downs, and the economic decline forced me to let go of that dream and return to traditional work. This shift required a different kind of self-reliance—a professionalism rooted in the experience I had gained. Networking gave way to internal relationship-building, and spiritually, I entered a phase of disillusionment, questioning whether there was any ultimate truth.

Yet, just as we adapt physiologically to new environments, we also adapt spiritually. Over time, I began to find my footing, both professionally and spiritually. The rigid dogmas of the past were replaced with a more inclusive and expansive outlook. This phase of life—what I call the “prime time”—is marked by a sense of settling into one’s expertise and spiritual path. People respect your experience, but you also become acutely aware of the next inevitable phase: retirement and aging.

As I approach this new chapter, I wonder what it will bring. Physiologically, aging involves a natural decline in certain bodily functions, but it also offers opportunities for growth in other areas. Spiritually, it may be a time of deeper reflection and acceptance. Each phase of life is a learning experience, an opening to new opportunities to fully embrace the richness of existence.

In the end, life’s transformative phases are not just about external events—they are deeply rooted in our physiological and psychological responses to change. Each initiation reshapes our perspective, guiding us toward a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. And as we move through these phases, we continue to adapt, grow, and evolve, ever seeking to experience life in its fullest expression.

The Three Gates of Spiritual Transformation: A Meditation Journey

The Three Gates of Spiritual Transformation: A Meditation Journey

In the ancient wisdom traditions, there exists a profound meditation practice that guides us through three spiritual gateways – the gate of divine inspiration, the gate of sacred reception, and the gate of cosmic synthesis.

This meditation sequence can transform our consciousness and connect us to deeper realms of being. Here’s how to journey through these mystical portals:

First Gate: Divine Inspiration

Begin by opening yourself to the highest vibrations of existence. Imagine morning sunlight piercing through mountain mist, each ray of cosmic wisdom penetrating your being. Feel gratitude flowing through you like a crystal stream, breaking any chains that bind your spirit. This is the moment of pure freedom, where your consciousness unfurls like wings ready to soar into new realms of possibility.

Second Gate: Sacred Reception

As you enter the second gate, become like fertile soil welcoming life-giving rain. Let the ethereal energies received in the first gate transform within you, refining like precious metal in sacred fire. Feel your vision expanding like ripples on still water. Here, you draw strength from the deep roots of ancestry, standing atop the mountain of accumulated wisdom where generations before have carved their path. This is where you step forward to forge your own way, creating bridges for those who will follow.

Third Gate: Cosmic Synthesis

In the final gate, a divine synthesis manifests – where freedom meets form, where vision meets reality. Feel power coursing through you like lightning through sky, extending to the furthest reaches of possibility. You become the architect of transformation, crafting future worlds from present moments. No longer bound by material limitations, you dance in perfect rhythm with life’s embrace.

Each breath becomes an act of creation, each thought a seed planted in cosmic soil. Unity flows through your veins like starlight, while your individuality burns like an eternal flame. The universal law of cause and effect weaves it all into the tapestry of destiny. In this state, you are both the weaver and the thread, both the sculptor and the stone, moving in perfect harmony with the universal dance.

This meditation practice reminds us that transformation isn’t just about personal change – it’s about becoming conscious co-creators in the cosmic dance of existence. Through these three gates, we learn to receive divine inspiration, refine it through wisdom, and ultimately manifest it in our lives and in the world around us.

Practice this meditation when you seek to align yourself with higher purpose, when you need guidance for important decisions, or when you wish to connect with the deeper currents of spiritual wisdom flowing through existence.

© Jurgens Pieterse. All rights reserved. 2025

No Excuses. No Complaints. Only Action

What do you complain about the most?

No Excuses. No Complaints. Only Action.

Complaining is the refuge of the powerless. Every moment spent blaming, resenting, or making excuses is a moment stolen from progress. The only real power lies in action—moving forward, making decisions, and owning the consequences.

You are responsible for your life. Guidance and wisdom may come from others, but no one else can walk your path for you. No one else is accountable for your choices. The world doesn’t owe you understanding or fairness, but you owe yourself the strength to rise and act.

Charging forward with no regrets

True mastery begins with awareness—of your intent, your direction, and the force that drives you. The mind shapes reality, and action is the tool that carves it into existence. Without action, dreams remain unmanifested potential, and vision fades into nothingness.

Just as the heart beats in constant rhythm—contracting to push forward, relaxing to receive—so must you move with purpose. Each challenge is fuel for growth, each setback a lesson, each success a stepping stone. Progress is inevitable for those who refuse to stop.

No dogma. No external validation. Just the unwavering commitment to what is right and necessary. No complaints, no excuses—only the responsibility to shape your own future.

Move forward. Relentless. Unstoppable.

© Jurgens Pieterse. All rights reserved. 2025