The earth is awakening, now is the time to tap into our intuitive wisdom, to bring forth the seeds that we have nurtured during the winter months. Outside the the earth is stirring, the sap is rising in the trees and I am surrounded by Almond Blossom, such a beautiful signal of Spring. From here on out, the days continue to lengthen and with it, our desire to become more active. Our lives reflecting the natural world that surrounds us.
No matter where we reside, We do not need to look far to see signs of nature,to witness the plants growing amongst the concrete, the insects collecting pollen from the many flowers that are now beginning to blossom. It does us well to remember that our biggest connection with nature, is oneself. To remember the long traditions we have which tie us in with the natural world.
Just today I spoke with someone about this subject and how the amazon rainforest would not be as diverse as it is, if it were not for the tribe's people living there, working in harmony with nature. We live in a world that likes to tell us how destructive we are, how destructive we have been and yes their is truth in that, but we also have a long history of working with the land. A relationship that needs to be acknowledged and celebrated.
That is why it is important to me, that I celebrate these festivals, remembering the connection we have with nature and the power that lies in becoming in sync with the seasons. Each one is an opportunity to reflect, to expand and deepen our awareness.
Imbolc is the time when our unconscious and conscious self merges, so that, what we have nurtured in the dark, now comes into the light. It is an opportunity to plant our seeds, as we move forward with the energy of spring. Bringing about growth, fertility and manifestation.
Time to reconnect with our intuitive self, with our creative spark, so that we can forge a new way in the world. Releasing this mostly rational way of living that has dominated much of our lives. It is time to harness the fire within, as we embrace the expansive energy created as the earth awakens.
In Ireland we celebrate Brigid today,the maiden aspect of the triple Goddess, the Goddess of fertility and birth. She is the keeper of fire, the spark of inspiration and a symbol of intuition.
When Christianity arrived in Ireland, the church saw the huge feminine presence in Ireland as a threat to their survival. They had to find a way to introduce their ways, whilst also allowing the Irish people to hold on to some of their past. They did this by replacing the Celtic festivals with church holidays. And allowing some of the goddess's to be recognized as Saints.
In Ireland today Brigid is mostly celebrated as a Saint, the second Patron Saint of Ireland. This is where her story comes into play, the story of a woman, that would go on to help unite the people of Ireland and help preserve the old ways, to keep the fire ,of earth based spirituality ablaze amongst the Irish people
Brigid really represents balance, recognizing the masculine and feminine within us all. To be strong with our gentleness and gentle with our strength. She was and still is loved as a goddess and Saint of peace and inspiration, one of compassion and generosity, and one who had great gifts of insight and wisdom.
Brigid really embodies the spirit of change and of acceptance. So relevant to our present time.
Today I spend some time making Goddess eye's, with my girls and with a friend.( you can see the photo's above). It is tradition to make them and place them in your home for inspiration and so that the all seeing eye of Brigid can watch over us. Our old ones are to be burnt, to make way for the new.
What's important is to recognize the connection between ourselves and the natural world. To recognize when we need to retreat within and when we need to plant our seeds and manifest change. Now is the time to make a pledge to honour your intuition, to listen to your inner voice, your inner wisdom. So that you connect with your truth and begin to live it. This connection is vital for understanding and growth.
So make a commitment to yourself, to honour yourself, to honour your needs. Let go of any doubt, of any fears that has been holding you back. And allow yourself to walk forth into the light, more empowered than before!