Honoring Lughnasadh--and a Goodbye

Ok, let's cut right to the chase. I've decided to shut down this blog. But it's actually a good thing! And it's fitting that I do it today, as a way to mark Lughnasadh. In the past, today was a time to gather in nature's harvest; now we instead reflect on what is manifesting in our lives as the year draws closer and closer to autumn. As I reflect in this way, I see that I'm moving more and more out of my spiritual closet and into the wider world. I'm also finding more outlets for my writing, and that's been a great experience. Since I don't really "harvest" in the traditional sense, I also like to think of this time of the year as one of nature's maturity. We've gone from new growth in the spring and have now arrived at full flower and maturity. And so this is reflected in my own life, too.

When I started this blog a little less than 3 years ago, I was also beginning a new spiritual path. I was insecure, unsure and just looking for an outlet. Now that I'm more confident and sure of my path, I'm emerging into the "real world," and so I need this outlet less and less. I was also searching for my own voice, if you will. For various reasons, I didn't know who I was or, at the least, didn't feel confident in expressing certain aspects of my life. I still have a way to go, but I do think I've found my voice now, both in spiritual expression and direction, and in my writing. Hurray!

Since my hiatus earlier this summer, I've been on a nice vacation, spent some time writing, and I've conducted one house blessing and another ceremony I created for high school graduations. In addition, I've been digging further into my family's ancestry and have found new connections--one of those is that 1 set of great-grandparents are buried less than 1/2 mile from my current home. So one thing I'm exploring more is my ancestors.

I do plan to leave this page up so that I can still connect with many of you from time to time. You have such interesting things to say and share! Just don't come here expecting to see anything new. But--who knows, I may revive this blog if the mood hits me again. I want to thank everyone who has read a post or left a comment; so many of you have encouraged me along my path, reaching out to share a common interest when I often felt isolated or tentative. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

In closing, I'd like to encourage you all to follow your heart, take chances and believe in yourself. This world is a wonderful place, and all it takes to see it is for us to open our eyes and look. At the bottom of this blog, I've included something written by Rumi that I think sums up what I'm trying to say. When my eyes finally opened several years ago, a friend showed me this poem, and it felt as if Rumi had been reading my mind. So I've repeated it here:

"The breeze at dawn has secrets to tell you.

"Don't go back to sleep.

"You must ask for what you really want.
"Don't do back to sleep.

"People are going back and forth across the doorsill where two worlds touch.

"The door is round and open.

"Don't go back to sleep."

Honoring Lughnasadh--and a Goodbye

Ok, let's cut right to the chase. I've decided to shut down this blog. But it's actually a good thing! And it's fitting that I do it today, as a way to mark Lughnasadh. In the past, today was a time to gather in nature's harvest; now we instead reflect on what is manifesting in our lives as the year draws closer and closer to autumn. As I reflect in this way, I see that I'm moving more and more out of my spiritual closet and into the wider world. I'm also finding more outlets for my writing, and that's been a great experience. Since I don't really "harvest" in the traditional sense, I also like to think of this time of the year as one of nature's maturity. We've gone from new growth in the spring and have now arrived at full flower and maturity. And so this is reflected in my own life, too.

When I started this blog a little less than 3 years ago, I was also beginning a new spiritual path. I was insecure, unsure and just looking for an outlet. Now that I'm more confident and sure of my path, I'm emerging into the "real world," and so I need this outlet less and less. I was also searching for my own voice, if you will. For various reasons, I didn't know who I was or, at the least, didn't feel confident in expressing certain aspects of my life. I still have a way to go, but I do think I've found my voice now, both in spiritual expression and direction, and in my writing. Hurray!

Since my hiatus earlier this summer, I've been on a nice vacation, spent some time writing, and I've conducted one house blessing and another ceremony I created for high school graduations. In addition, I've been digging further into my family's ancestry and have found new connections--one of those is that 1 set of great-grandparents are buried less than 1/2 mile from my current home. So one thing I'm exploring more is my ancestors.

I do plan to leave this page up so that I can still connect with many of you from time to time. You have such interesting things to say and share! Just don't come here expecting to see anything new. But--who knows, I may revive this blog if the mood hits me again. I want to thank everyone who has read a post or left a comment; so many of you have encouraged me along my path, reaching out to share a common interest when I often felt isolated or tentative. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

In closing, I'd like to encourage you all to follow your heart, take chances and believe in yourself. This world is a wonderful place, and all it takes to see it is for us to open our eyes and look. At the bottom of this blog, I've included something written by Rumi that I think sums up what I'm trying to say. When my eyes finally opened several years ago, a friend showed me this poem, and it felt as if Rumi had been reading my mind. So I've repeated it here:

"The breeze at dawn has secrets to tell you.

"Don't go back to sleep.

"You must ask for what you really want.
"Don't do back to sleep.

"People are going back and forth across the doorsill where two worlds touch.

"The door is round and open.

"Don't go back to sleep."

What's On the Altar?

So this past weekend was the spring equinox, and I set up what was actually my first-ever altar/ceremony for Alban Eiler. I like that term because it's Welsh for "light of spring," which is so much more evocative than the merely technical "equinox." And my dad's family is from somewhere in the British Isles, so it seems to fit me.

On past Alban Eilers, I've been out enjoying the warmer weather, which is certainly a good way to mark the occasion. But I love ritual, and having put several of these together, it's actually difficult to find something that I consider simple yet meaningful. Other rituals I've found online are quite lengthy or are too wrapped up in pseudo-Celtic trappings that it feels more like a stage performance than a spiritual act. (I'm thinking about putting together a book on these and other rituals, something that's very approachable.)

Anyhow, I built this ritual around the themes of renewal, balance and fertility. The daffodils, forsythia and easter eggs speak to fertility (and inside the eggs were pieces of a chocolate bunny and Peeps!). The silvery stick or wand I often use in winter rituals, so it was symbolically put away while bringing out the rattle wrapped in ivy (hand-made by yours truly). Then the sounds made by the rattle and conch horn were used to help "awaken the land," as all the plants and animals stir back to life (i.e., renewal). The yin-yang symbol speaks to balance, obviously, as does the black candle (night/dark) and white candle (day/light).

I also threw in some seasonal poetry and a little background music--oh, and there was wine, too! The tingsha chimes were used to ritually clear the space. Of course, you don't need these rituals to enjoy spring--but for me, it helps me maintain my awareness of how our world works, its countless wonders that are too often overlooked and my place in the grand scheme of being.

What's On the Altar?

So this past weekend was the spring equinox, and I set up what was actually my first-ever altar/ceremony for Alban Eiler. I like that term because it's Welsh for "light of spring," which is so much more evocative than the merely technical "equinox." And my dad's family is from somewhere in the British Isles, so it seems to fit me.

On past Alban Eilers, I've been out enjoying the warmer weather, which is certainly a good way to mark the occasion. But I love ritual, and having put several of these together, it's actually difficult to find something that I consider simple yet meaningful. Other rituals I've found online are quite lengthy or are too wrapped up in pseudo-Celtic trappings that it feels more like a stage performance than a spiritual act. (I'm thinking about putting together a book on these and other rituals, something that's very approachable.)

Anyhow, I built this ritual around the themes of renewal, balance and fertility. The daffodils, forsythia and easter eggs speak to fertility (and inside the eggs were pieces of a chocolate bunny and Peeps!). The silvery stick or wand I often use in winter rituals, so it was symbolically put away while bringing out the rattle wrapped in ivy (hand-made by yours truly). Then the sounds made by the rattle and conch horn were used to help "awaken the land," as all the plants and animals stir back to life (i.e., renewal). The yin-yang symbol speaks to balance, obviously, as does the black candle (night/dark) and white candle (day/light).

I also threw in some seasonal poetry and a little background music--oh, and there was wine, too! The tingsha chimes were used to ritually clear the space. Of course, you don't need these rituals to enjoy spring--but for me, it helps me maintain my awareness of how our world works, its countless wonders that are too often overlooked and my place in the grand scheme of being.

Looking Toward Spring: Imbolc 2010

Took this pic of the icicles out my window over the weekend. We got around 8 inches of snow, which is quite a lot for the area. And these icicles grew even longer as the temps varied, turning into long, pointy ice daggers by end of day.

Had my 2010 Imbolc celebration yesterday, here at the midpoint between winter and spring. Much to my surprise, my partner joined in (he really is trying to salvage our relationship, which makes my ol' Grinchy heart grow a size larger). I was also surprised that, earlier in the day, he got to work cleaning the house! That-never-happens. Well, what a perfect transition into Imbolc, a time when some symbolically purified their homes by doing an early spring cleaning.

So my partner and I gathered 'round the dining room table, where I set up my altar (pictured below). After clearing the space and lighting the candles, I handed out 2 seeds/nuts (I think they're hazelnuts--not sure. It was all we had, and my partner had collected them ages ago. Hmmm, maybe he's a closet shaman and doesn't know it yet...). Another Imbolc tradition is to have a feast to celebrate the pending return of nature's abundance, so we chowed down for lunch--which included cheese; dairy products have a connection to Imbolc because it's supposedly near the time when lambs begin nursing.

Also on the altar is my white "power wand" to symbolize St. Brighid, a holly twig to symbolize spring (everything else was under 8 inches of snow!) and some books of poetry, since Brighid was Christianized into the patroness of poets. After we finished eating, we each read a poem, then held the seeds as we talked about what we hoped would grow in 2010. I mentioned my spiritual practice as well as more physical exercise. And my partner said he would keep doing whatever was necessary to keep our relationship intact.

It was a beautiful, wintry weekend, very reflective, which is 1 reason I enjoy this time of year. As to the relationship status, I'm pondering all this over. Much to sort out still, so stay tuned.

 Blessings!

Looking Toward Spring: Imbolc 2010

Took this pic of the icicles out my window over the weekend. We got around 8 inches of snow, which is quite a lot for the area. And these icicles grew even longer as the temps varied, turning into long, pointy ice daggers by end of day.

Had my 2010 Imbolc celebration yesterday, here at the midpoint between winter and spring. Much to my surprise, my partner joined in (he really is trying to salvage our relationship, which makes my ol' Grinchy heart grow a size larger). I was also surprised that, earlier in the day, he got to work cleaning the house! That-never-happens. Well, what a perfect transition into Imbolc, a time when some symbolically purified their homes by doing an early spring cleaning.

So my partner and I gathered 'round the dining room table, where I set up my altar (pictured below). After clearing the space and lighting the candles, I handed out 2 seeds/nuts (I think they're hazelnuts--not sure. It was all we had, and my partner had collected them ages ago. Hmmm, maybe he's a closet shaman and doesn't know it yet...). Another Imbolc tradition is to have a feast to celebrate the pending return of nature's abundance, so we chowed down for lunch--which included cheese; dairy products have a connection to Imbolc because it's supposedly near the time when lambs begin nursing.

Also on the altar is my white "power wand" to symbolize St. Brighid, a holly twig to symbolize spring (everything else was under 8 inches of snow!) and some books of poetry, since Brighid was Christianized into the patroness of poets. After we finished eating, we each read a poem, then held the seeds as we talked about what we hoped would grow in 2010. I mentioned my spiritual practice as well as more physical exercise. And my partner said he would keep doing whatever was necessary to keep our relationship intact.

It was a beautiful, wintry weekend, very reflective, which is 1 reason I enjoy this time of year. As to the relationship status, I'm pondering all this over. Much to sort out still, so stay tuned.

 Blessings!

My Grumpy Pants Are On Waaaay Too Tight!

Boy, am I grumpy today. Had to control my temper in the grocery store after way too many slooooow people with carts got in my way!

And I know why I'm grumpy--but, *yawn*, it's the same ol', same ol'. And usually, thinking ahead to some sort of ritual provides a welcome distraction--but not right now. Next Monday is Imbolc, the mid-point between winter and spring. I always try and celebrate these moments in some way that helps me reconnect to the Earth, to the changing seasons. So this photo here, with the candles in the snow, reminds me that the light is returning soon.

But not even this is taking my mind off work, money, relationships, health--you name it!
Arrrgh! Grrrowl!

My Grumpy Pants Are On Waaaay Too Tight!

Boy, am I grumpy today. Had to control my temper in the grocery store after way too many slooooow people with carts got in my way!

And I know why I'm grumpy--but, *yawn*, it's the same ol', same ol'. And usually, thinking ahead to some sort of ritual provides a welcome distraction--but not right now. Next Monday is Imbolc, the mid-point between winter and spring. I always try and celebrate these moments in some way that helps me reconnect to the Earth, to the changing seasons. So this photo here, with the candles in the snow, reminds me that the light is returning soon.

But not even this is taking my mind off work, money, relationships, health--you name it!
Arrrgh! Grrrowl!

Thinking of Renewal at Winter Solstice

So 'round we go once again. Today marks the shortest day of the year, when the Northern Hemisphere is positioned such that the least amount of the sun's heat and light reaches us. And then, slowly, the earth orbits the sun so that a little bit more of the sun gets to us each day, until we reach the longest day of the year in Summer 2010. I mark this day because it reminds me that I live on this tiny planet in this great, big, enormous universe--dependent on titled, orbiting planets and blazing stars that are cool enough not to bake us alive but warm enough so we don't freeze solid either. A little farther toward the sun or a little farther out, and that would be our story.

The Winter Solstice is a time for renewal, and this year I hope for renewed personal energy. I just don't have much enthusiasm--or patience!--for anything. And I also wish for a renewal of my relationship with my partner--meaning, that if anything is going to happen, if it's going to last, if it's worth saving, then now is the time. I may be crazy, but I still hope. He and I have enjoyed a good couple of days together, and that's made this season more special. We're working on renewal--and with that in mind, I'll share a short reading that i used in the solstice ceremony which we did together earlier this evening.

"Snow and ice have cooled our minds, 

Cold winds have blown away our fertile thoughts, 

Silent night have stilled our tongues. 

Like the bear, the fox and the toad,

Our creativity hibernates without the warmth of the sun.

Come to us now, Inspiration, as the sun returns!

As the sun grows in strength,

So may the fire in our hearts!" 

Happy Solstice everyone! Here's to renewal.

Thinking of Renewal at Winter Solstice

So 'round we go once again. Today marks the shortest day of the year, when the Northern Hemisphere is positioned such that the least amount of the sun's heat and light reaches us. And then, slowly, the earth orbits the sun so that a little bit more of the sun gets to us each day, until we reach the longest day of the year in Summer 2010. I mark this day because it reminds me that I live on this tiny planet in this great, big, enormous universe--dependent on titled, orbiting planets and blazing stars that are cool enough not to bake us alive but warm enough so we don't freeze solid either. A little farther toward the sun or a little farther out, and that would be our story.

The Winter Solstice is a time for renewal, and this year I hope for renewed personal energy. I just don't have much enthusiasm--or patience!--for anything. And I also wish for a renewal of my relationship with my partner--meaning, that if anything is going to happen, if it's going to last, if it's worth saving, then now is the time. I may be crazy, but I still hope. He and I have enjoyed a good couple of days together, and that's made this season more special. We're working on renewal--and with that in mind, I'll share a short reading that i used in the solstice ceremony which we did together earlier this evening.

"Snow and ice have cooled our minds, 

Cold winds have blown away our fertile thoughts, 

Silent night have stilled our tongues. 

Like the bear, the fox and the toad,

Our creativity hibernates without the warmth of the sun.

Come to us now, Inspiration, as the sun returns!

As the sun grows in strength,

So may the fire in our hearts!" 

Happy Solstice everyone! Here's to renewal.

Reflections on a Simple Alban Elfed

Ready or not, fall/autumn is here, and the equinox occurred yesterday evening, that time that only happens twice a year when the amounts of sunlight and darkness are equal. (Well, National Geographic says that isn't exactly true, but I'll let the wonks sort it out.) I love fall, usually, but I'm dreading it this year because that mean's winter isn't far away. I don't always do well without enough sunlight and warmth in my days, and now that my partner and I have split up, the seasonal changes are filling me with apprehension.

No surprise, I really didn't want to conduct any kind of ritual for the equinox/Mabon, or Alban Elfed in the Celtic tradition. But I needed to do it for my spiritual health. It's been very difficult lately for me to keep up my spiritual practices. I guess I just feel a little empty at the moment. But now's the time when it's most important, of course. I need to maintain that connection to the natural world, to the everyday changes that occur around us. It helps me to remember that change is part of our lives. Things begin and things end. Nature teaches us that nothing can ever remain the same.

My ritual today was simple, and I didn't even take a photo to share. Just a single candle and me seated on the floor. I did add a bowl of water to symbolize emotions and relationships (oh how they do change!).

Balance
As I meditated on the balance of dark and light on the equinox, I began to wonder: Is balance in anything really possible? The equinox itself is only a passing moment, and then the days grow darker, only to come into balance again in the spring; but that lasts only a moment as well. So much is written and said about maintaining balance in our lives, but it's ever elusive. Just when you think you have it, it's gone. And off you go again in search of balance. Maybe it's overrated!!

Change

As the seasons change, we have an opportunity to reflect on change in our lives. Obviously, I've been through a big change recently after leaving my partner. But where do we go from here? Even though I've moved out, I still talk to him: I have mail to collect, personal items still in the house, and we need to paint the bathrooms in preparation to put the house up for sale. Most perplexing, he's actually beginning to show more affection and treat me as I had wanted to be treated all along. And as far as I know, he's stopped drinking altogether. Maybe there's a chance yet. But the lesson is that things have changed, regardless of whether we remain apart or get back together. If we do reconcile, the dynamic of our relationship and our expectations will have to evolve--otherwise, we'll be operating from a perspective that has already shifted out from under us.

Harvest

It's also a time to reflect on what the seeds we've planted in our lives have produced. I'm disappointed that some of my writing projects and goals haven't been met, but then I did get ordained as an interfaith minister this year--and I have 2 weddings planned for October. That's been a wonderful surprise!

I don't know if any of you out there might also be dreading the approach of winter, too. But my ritual reminded me that even winter will pass eventually. We cannot stop any of it, not the change in seasons nor changes in our personal lives. I say this to myself as much as to anyone else who is reading: Hang on. Relax. This, too, shall pass in time.

Reflections on a Simple Alban Elfed

Ready or not, fall/autumn is here, and the equinox occurred yesterday evening, that time that only happens twice a year when the amounts of sunlight and darkness are equal. (Well, National Geographic says that isn't exactly true, but I'll let the wonks sort it out.) I love fall, usually, but I'm dreading it this year because that mean's winter isn't far away. I don't always do well without enough sunlight and warmth in my days, and now that my partner and I have split up, the seasonal changes are filling me with apprehension.

No surprise, I really didn't want to conduct any kind of ritual for the equinox/Mabon, or Alban Elfed in the Celtic tradition. But I needed to do it for my spiritual health. It's been very difficult lately for me to keep up my spiritual practices. I guess I just feel a little empty at the moment. But now's the time when it's most important, of course. I need to maintain that connection to the natural world, to the everyday changes that occur around us. It helps me to remember that change is part of our lives. Things begin and things end. Nature teaches us that nothing can ever remain the same.

My ritual today was simple, and I didn't even take a photo to share. Just a single candle and me seated on the floor. I did add a bowl of water to symbolize emotions and relationships (oh how they do change!).

Balance
As I meditated on the balance of dark and light on the equinox, I began to wonder: Is balance in anything really possible? The equinox itself is only a passing moment, and then the days grow darker, only to come into balance again in the spring; but that lasts only a moment as well. So much is written and said about maintaining balance in our lives, but it's ever elusive. Just when you think you have it, it's gone. And off you go again in search of balance. Maybe it's overrated!!

Change

As the seasons change, we have an opportunity to reflect on change in our lives. Obviously, I've been through a big change recently after leaving my partner. But where do we go from here? Even though I've moved out, I still talk to him: I have mail to collect, personal items still in the house, and we need to paint the bathrooms in preparation to put the house up for sale. Most perplexing, he's actually beginning to show more affection and treat me as I had wanted to be treated all along. And as far as I know, he's stopped drinking altogether. Maybe there's a chance yet. But the lesson is that things have changed, regardless of whether we remain apart or get back together. If we do reconcile, the dynamic of our relationship and our expectations will have to evolve--otherwise, we'll be operating from a perspective that has already shifted out from under us.

Harvest

It's also a time to reflect on what the seeds we've planted in our lives have produced. I'm disappointed that some of my writing projects and goals haven't been met, but then I did get ordained as an interfaith minister this year--and I have 2 weddings planned for October. That's been a wonderful surprise!

I don't know if any of you out there might also be dreading the approach of winter, too. But my ritual reminded me that even winter will pass eventually. We cannot stop any of it, not the change in seasons nor changes in our personal lives. I say this to myself as much as to anyone else who is reading: Hang on. Relax. This, too, shall pass in time.

A Quiet Lughnasadh

Even though I don't live by the old agricultural calendar/festivals, it's a nice way to stay connected to the Earth. Today is Lughnasadh or Lammas, part of the Celtic calendar when some of the first big harvest would come in, of grain and corn, for example. It's a time to remember that we depend on the Earth's fertility, that even if we shop in grocery stores and buy mostly packaged food, it still originates in the dirt as it always has.

So to mark this time, I walked to my favorite spot by the lake (which is lower than ever, by the way--not good). I just needed quiet time to myself. With the idea of harvest in mind, I took symbols of my writing, my shamanic practice and my new ministerial services, and blessed them with the intent that they are fruitful over the next year. I brought along some blueberries and bread to eat; I also left a few bites for the critters. Then I read this seasonal meditation. I don't go in so much for the "god/goddess/lord/lady" language, but it does have beautiful imagery:

Now is the time of the First Harvest,
When the bounties of nature give of themselves
So that we may survive.

O god of the ripening fields, Lord of the Grain,
Grant me the understanding of sacrifice
As you prepare to deliver yourself
Under the sickle of the goddess
And journey to the lands of eternal summer.

O goddess of the dark moon,
Teach me the secrets of rebirth
As the sun loses its strength and the nights grow cold.

I partake of the First Harvest,
Mixing its energies with mine
That I may continue my quest
For the starry wisdom of perfection.

O Lady of the Moon and Lord of the Sun,
before whom the stars halt their courses,
I offer my thanks
For the continuing fertility of the Earth.
May the nodding grain loose its seeds
To be buried in the Mother's breast,
Ensuring rebirth in the warmth of next spring.

A Quiet Lughnasadh

Even though I don't live by the old agricultural calendar/festivals, it's a nice way to stay connected to the Earth. Today is Lughnasadh or Lammas, part of the Celtic calendar when some of the first big harvest would come in, of grain and corn, for example. It's a time to remember that we depend on the Earth's fertility, that even if we shop in grocery stores and buy mostly packaged food, it still originates in the dirt as it always has.

So to mark this time, I walked to my favorite spot by the lake (which is lower than ever, by the way--not good). I just needed quiet time to myself. With the idea of harvest in mind, I took symbols of my writing, my shamanic practice and my new ministerial services, and blessed them with the intent that they are fruitful over the next year. I brought along some blueberries and bread to eat; I also left a few bites for the critters. Then I read this seasonal meditation. I don't go in so much for the "god/goddess/lord/lady" language, but it does have beautiful imagery:

Now is the time of the First Harvest,
When the bounties of nature give of themselves
So that we may survive.

O god of the ripening fields, Lord of the Grain,
Grant me the understanding of sacrifice
As you prepare to deliver yourself
Under the sickle of the goddess
And journey to the lands of eternal summer.

O goddess of the dark moon,
Teach me the secrets of rebirth
As the sun loses its strength and the nights grow cold.

I partake of the First Harvest,
Mixing its energies with mine
That I may continue my quest
For the starry wisdom of perfection.

O Lady of the Moon and Lord of the Sun,
before whom the stars halt their courses,
I offer my thanks
For the continuing fertility of the Earth.
May the nodding grain loose its seeds
To be buried in the Mother's breast,
Ensuring rebirth in the warmth of next spring.

Whose Birthday Is It?

I just looked at my calendar and realized--today is the Dalai Lama's birthday! Well, I hope it's a good one. Does he eat birthday cake? If so, I hope he enjoys it. Birthday cake is one of the greatest things ever!

But to mark his birthday, let's all reflect on how each of us can bring more peace and love to this torn-up world.

To learn more about the 14th and current Dalai Lama, the rightful spiritual and political leader of Tibet, click here.

Whose Birthday Is It?

I just looked at my calendar and realized--today is the Dalai Lama's birthday! Well, I hope it's a good one. Does he eat birthday cake? If so, I hope he enjoys it. Birthday cake is one of the greatest things ever!

But to mark his birthday, let's all reflect on how each of us can bring more peace and love to this torn-up world.

To learn more about the 14th and current Dalai Lama, the rightful spiritual and political leader of Tibet, click here.

I'm Back In Time to Celebrate Imbolc!

Well, crazy week, 'nuf said. Hopefully, next week won't be as manic.

And here we are at Imbolc, the midpoint between winter and spring. If you don't know, it's an old tradition that marks the time when lambs start to nurse and focuses on fertility and the return of the sun from the dark, cold days of winter.

If you're curious about my altar photo:

• The white cloth and candles, plus the blue candle, reminded me of the wintry season we're in.
• The "white wand" at the left side is a mana tube I made. It contains sand and a quartz crystal within a copper pipe to attract energy. It's decorated with clear beads, reflective ribbon, glitter, white tape and white adhesive skulls. Yes, I am a 12-year-old girl--so there! Anyway, I actually made this several months ago. But then I read that St. Brigid, the patron deity/saint of Imbolc, "uses her white want to breathe life into winter," I thought, perfect!
• I have a dead twig to symbolize winter and a sprig of monkey grass to symbolize the coming spring.
• The ginger snaps also symbolize winter and the last celebration, Yule. The milk recognizes the nursing lamb aspect of Imbolc.
• The stuffed wolf is actually a poppet I made when i was given the name "Riverwolf." The wolf is one of my animal totems/spirit guides, and they have several connections to Imbolc. Some say that wolves, along with groundhogs, come out of hibernation about now to check the weather. In some areas, February is considered the "wolf month" because of its harshness and old tales of wolves eating humans to stay alive. Also, in roughly 2 weeks, is when Lupercalia, an ancient Roman festival, was once held (roughly same time as our Valentine's Day). The best part? As part of the fertility ritual, the men would run around town naked except for a wolf mask! Sounds like fun--but it's a wee bit too cold for that around here!

Given the fertility rites surrounding Imbolc, it's a good time to focus on what we hope will grow in our lives in the coming year and how we can sow these seeds. I had my usual: more writing assignments, more honesty in my life and relationships and, of course, a whole lot more fun!

It's good to be back!

I'm Back In Time to Celebrate Imbolc!

Well, crazy week, 'nuf said. Hopefully, next week won't be as manic.

And here we are at Imbolc, the midpoint between winter and spring. If you don't know, it's an old tradition that marks the time when lambs start to nurse and focuses on fertility and the return of the sun from the dark, cold days of winter.

If you're curious about my altar photo:

• The white cloth and candles, plus the blue candle, reminded me of the wintry season we're in.
• The "white wand" at the left side is a mana tube I made. It contains sand and a quartz crystal within a copper pipe to attract energy. It's decorated with clear beads, reflective ribbon, glitter, white tape and white adhesive skulls. Yes, I am a 12-year-old girl--so there! Anyway, I actually made this several months ago. But then I read that St. Brigid, the patron deity/saint of Imbolc, "uses her white want to breathe life into winter," I thought, perfect!
• I have a dead twig to symbolize winter and a sprig of monkey grass to symbolize the coming spring.
• The ginger snaps also symbolize winter and the last celebration, Yule. The milk recognizes the nursing lamb aspect of Imbolc.
• The stuffed wolf is actually a poppet I made when i was given the name "Riverwolf." The wolf is one of my animal totems/spirit guides, and they have several connections to Imbolc. Some say that wolves, along with groundhogs, come out of hibernation about now to check the weather. In some areas, February is considered the "wolf month" because of its harshness and old tales of wolves eating humans to stay alive. Also, in roughly 2 weeks, is when Lupercalia, an ancient Roman festival, was once held (roughly same time as our Valentine's Day). The best part? As part of the fertility ritual, the men would run around town naked except for a wolf mask! Sounds like fun--but it's a wee bit too cold for that around here!

Given the fertility rites surrounding Imbolc, it's a good time to focus on what we hope will grow in our lives in the coming year and how we can sow these seeds. I had my usual: more writing assignments, more honesty in my life and relationships and, of course, a whole lot more fun!

It's good to be back!

Merry Yule, Y'all!

I particularly enjoy this holiday (Yule, winter solstice or, my preference, Alban Arthan, which is Welsh for "light of winter"). Maybe it's the themes of light and darkness or maybe just the seasonal extreme from summer.

Since my partner and I are headed out of town today (the actual solstice), we had a simple ritual last night. That's right--"we"--he actually joined in again! I'm finding more and more that if I don't get defensive about his perceptions or worry too much about what he thinks, we both still enjoy the moment and connect.

Which ties into the theme of Alban Arthan: renewal.

We began by turning off all the lights in the house except for one lit candle on a table. I said a few words about renewal and the promise of the returning light. Then I honored the 4 directions "that power and radiance might enter our lives for the good of all beings." I like that phrase.

I asked for peace in each direction, lit one candle each and placed a quartz crystal next to each candle. Don't know why, it just felt right. Then I asked for peace across our entire world. We had a moment of silence and then I read this short piece I found online, which touched on renewal:

"Snow and ice have cooled our minds,
Cold winds have blown away our fertile thoughts,
Silent nights have stilled our tongues.
Like the bear, the fox and the toad,
Our creativity hibernates without the warmth of the sun.
Come to us now, inspiration, as the sun returns!
As the sun grows in strength,
So may the fire in our hearts!"

Next, we each talked about areas of our lives where we'd like to see some renewal or where we looked forward to a promise. My partner was concerned for his mother's health and his job situation. Me, I wished for renewed motivation in general. I also mentioned that I hoped for continued renewal in our relationship with one another.

Next I read something called the "Hymn of Promise," which I found in an old church bulletin. We took turns reading verses. It's a bit long for here, but essentially it describes things like winter, silence and death as opportunities for hidden things to emerge. And the last line goes:

"...unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see."

We had one last moment of silence and, in a nod to the returning sunlight, we went around the house turning on all the lights, the Christmas tree and other decorations, and the Christmas music.

Then we had some egg nog!

Merry Yule, Y'all!

I particularly enjoy this holiday (Yule, winter solstice or, my preference, Alban Arthan, which is Welsh for "light of winter"). Maybe it's the themes of light and darkness or maybe just the seasonal extreme from summer.

Since my partner and I are headed out of town today (the actual solstice), we had a simple ritual last night. That's right--"we"--he actually joined in again! I'm finding more and more that if I don't get defensive about his perceptions or worry too much about what he thinks, we both still enjoy the moment and connect.

Which ties into the theme of Alban Arthan: renewal.

We began by turning off all the lights in the house except for one lit candle on a table. I said a few words about renewal and the promise of the returning light. Then I honored the 4 directions "that power and radiance might enter our lives for the good of all beings." I like that phrase.

I asked for peace in each direction, lit one candle each and placed a quartz crystal next to each candle. Don't know why, it just felt right. Then I asked for peace across our entire world. We had a moment of silence and then I read this short piece I found online, which touched on renewal:

"Snow and ice have cooled our minds,
Cold winds have blown away our fertile thoughts,
Silent nights have stilled our tongues.
Like the bear, the fox and the toad,
Our creativity hibernates without the warmth of the sun.
Come to us now, inspiration, as the sun returns!
As the sun grows in strength,
So may the fire in our hearts!"

Next, we each talked about areas of our lives where we'd like to see some renewal or where we looked forward to a promise. My partner was concerned for his mother's health and his job situation. Me, I wished for renewed motivation in general. I also mentioned that I hoped for continued renewal in our relationship with one another.

Next I read something called the "Hymn of Promise," which I found in an old church bulletin. We took turns reading verses. It's a bit long for here, but essentially it describes things like winter, silence and death as opportunities for hidden things to emerge. And the last line goes:

"...unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see."

We had one last moment of silence and, in a nod to the returning sunlight, we went around the house turning on all the lights, the Christmas tree and other decorations, and the Christmas music.

Then we had some egg nog!