A Highland Blessing
From a journey that started so many years ago for me on the path of living the Craft, having seen so many turns of the wheel, some would raise eyebrows when I say this is my personal favorite time of the wheel turns.. The fall is a very spiritual uplifting time with the leaves turning the trees to fire and gold, but now is the time when the wheel is bringing us back to the light after the dark. The chill dark reminding us of the veil’s closeness, but we can see the light growing and the promise of spring. Feeling the change in the Crone’s influence on the world.
This time of Imbolc is the Faoilleach, the Wolf-month; it was also known as a’ marbh mhiòs, the Dead-month in the Scottish Path I follow. But is nothing further from the truth. The Cailleach dies and is reborn as the Brihde. A simple, young woman who personifies the Brightness of the growing light. The new fragile regrowth that is a promise of survival. The new life such as the Lambs being born on the Moors and highlands. The reassurance of abundance to come.
Imbolc’s symbolism to me is a community that has grown close to share what was available, made do, mended and repaired what needed it so that all could benefit. To survive together. Blend, Love, and respect each other. All revolving around a Cauldron, hearth fire or a bonfire in the long nights. Brihde’s bright light warms everyone in her generousness.
In times past, Communities would observe traditions where food would be shared, money or simple gifts. Maiden’s would knock on doors and dance and sing. Young men would dart in and out of people houses taking offerings of food for the evening’s feast in honor of Brihde.
My Coven will be honoring the occasion by making corn dollies and decorating them, trying to make Brihde Crosses and having a ritual to thank for what we have had and what may come for us and our families in the next full turn of the Wheel. Come and join with us in Spirit, in love and community. Let us all move as one in blessing The Earth, The Lord and lady.
Brightest Blessings for Everyone
Merry Imbolc
Starwalker
