Cappaj1,
When standing in front of the engine the prop turns counter-clockwise. When you prime the engine you should turn over the engine by hand in a counter-clockwise direction, the same as it runs. I've had engines run for several minutes running backwards and have had not ill effects. The biggest issue you want to watch out for when an engine is running backwards is having the plane "backup", if you don't have a good hold on it the prop could back right into your hand.

Ken