athenagrey | Imbolc blessings

In the stillness of morning, I filled the red pail with milk. Wrapped in Jannie's wine-colored cloak and carrying a small besom, I went outside to bless the land in the name of Brighid.

To the East, Renewal
To the South, Warmth and Heat
To the West, Succulence
To the North, Growth, Abundance and Fertility

I give back to Goddess a share of her blessings.

Some years I have stood on snow to give this blessing. This year the ground was soft and moist beneath my feet. Last year, Jannie watched from the window; it was the last Sabbat she celebrated at home. Wrapped in her cloak, I can feel her love and kindness surround me.

Now, eight fat pairs of candles hang from their wicks, aligning themselves between earth and sky, cooling slowly and becoming strong.

A simple repast of bread and cheese awaits.

It is still the quiet time of year. Things are happening in nature, bulbs swelling into flower under the soil, tree buds growing fat in anticipation of flowers and leaves. Silent and steady, She awakens. Promises are whispered and acknowledged. Small stirrings are heard. It is a time of stretching, reaching, and preparing to unfold into motion.