And The Wheel Continues to Turn

[Jennifer T]

It’s been quite an interesting journey into the Old Ways.  

 

Mabon approaches. And close on its heels, another Samhain. I love this time of year. I feel the veil thinning and the Autumn approaching.  Looking forward to the rituals.

 

Peace

[Jennifer T]

Blessed Mabon! The season begins tomorrow!  Going to a Renfest dressed to celebrate my Celtic ancestors who called it Mea'n Fo'mhair.  

 

Reap what you sow!

Peace

[VickySGV]

Blessed Be!!

 

[Josie Beth]

Harvest time is always a magical time of year. It’s so connected to the earth and bounty. Be fruitful and multiply and replenish the earth is nested in this. It’s echoed in the old ways, in the true representation of ancient traditions, including Wicca, Druid teachings and so many more.

 

Reaping what you sow is a statement that rings true on so many levels and transcends cultures. I’m reminded of a Hindu concept of karma, which was explained to me by a Hindu practitioner as “works”. As in working the soil, planting the seeds, and reaping the harvest. It’s not just some spiritual force poised to whack us over the head if we mistreat others, it’s also a reward for planting good seeds and doing the hard work that nurtures that seed to fruition. Across all cultures this agricultural concept has depth and value. It’s truly a time to give thanks, to share with others, to prepare for the more desolate time of winter, and celebrate the cycle that brings the promise of renewal. This is something all of our ancient ancestors understood because it was a part of their beings. They did not just think of the land as some separate entity, they were a part of the earth and the earth was inside of them. The land is family. So with these thoughts I wish you all blessings. Whatever form the harvest takes. Whether it’s in ritual or pumpkins and warm cider. May the fires light the night and warm our hearts. 

[Jennifer T]

@Josie Beth, thank you!  You made me tear up. These are the deepest of my beliefs. And you elucidated them beautifully.  This is truly my favorite time of year. Out small Harvest here at my home was indeed bountiful and I thank God deeply.

 

The primordial rhythms call to us from a distant past. The cycle of birth, life, death and renewal played over and over again throughout all of time and creation. We were never meant to exist apart from the natural world, but to live in harmony with it; caring for it, embracing it and being thankful for and respectful of the breath that exists in all things - for in the breath is the life. And the promise of spring.

 

Today, in our modern world, science is beginning to understand just how powerful that breath is. For they are now seeing that the trees communicate with each other and possess a heartbeat, that the water has memories, that the air that surrounds us is comprised of knowledge. 

 

Truly, you spoke well, our ancestors understood this - across all cultures.

 

I feel the drums. I see the bonfires. And I hear the timeless call. And I feel the pulse of creation in the nature around me.  

 

Indeed, as Apollo’s strength wanes with the year and the aging goddess takes her rule in the cosmos, may the fires warm us and keep our hearts aflame. Never lose the awe. 

 

And to @VickySGV, @Josie Beth and all who celebrate, yes, Blessed be!