Brideo’gas

Imbolc

by Celebrate The SeasonImbolcWicca

(February 1st – 2nd)

The Festival of Lights

Brideo’gas

Imbolc, (pronounced “IM-bulk” or “EM-bowlk”), also called Oimealg, (“IM-mol’g) by the Druids, as is the festival of the lactating sheep. It is derived from the Gaelic word “oimelc” which means “ewes milk”. Herd animals have either given birth to the first offspring of the year or their wombs are swollen and the milk of life is flowing into their teats and udders.
Imbolc is one of the four greater Sabbats, celebrated on February 2nd. It is to celebrate the first stirrings of spring. It is the time of blessing of the seeds and consecration of agricultural tools. This is when the first buds can be seen appearing on trees, and in many places the first Crocus flowers begin to spring forth from the frozen earth in the Northern Hemisphere. It is when the days are quite visibly longer than they were around Yule, and they are of somewhat bearable temperatures, as it marks the center point of the dark half of the year.

Religious Myth

brigid’s cross

On this Sabbat Pagans honor the Goddess in her Maiden aspect, as the bride, for from this day to March 21st, it is her season to prepare for growth and renewal. Brighid’s snake (Kundalini energy) emerges from the womb of the Earth Mother to test the weather, (the origin of Groundhog Day).
Traditionally, celebrants honor Brigid, who has many names; she’s known as Brighid, Bríde, Brigit, and Brìd. In Her honor, the Irish call the Imbolc holy day “Lá Fhéile Bríde” (the Feast of Bride), the Scottish “Latha Fhèill Bríghde” (the Festival of Brigid), and the Welsh say “Gwyl Ffræd” (Brigit’s Feast). Her element is fire. She inspires the mind to create poetry. Brigid blesses holy wells, healers and blacksmiths, and Her symbol is a weaving of straw called a Brigid’s Cross, fashioned from wheat stalks and exchanged as symbols of protection and prosperity in the coming year. You can find these Celtic talismans blessing doorways all over Ireland. She is the Triple Goddess — Maiden, Mother, and Crone — who offers us light in the season of darkness. Also, Straw Brideo’gas or Corn Maidens (corn dollies) are made from corn, oat or wheat straw, dressed up and placed in cradles or baskets with white flower bedding known as “Bride’s Bed”. Young girls then carry the Brideo’gas door to door, and gifts are bestowed upon the image from each household. Afterwards at the traditional feast, the older women make special acorn wands for the dollies to hold, and in the morning the ashes in the hearth are examined to see if the magic wands left marks as a good omen. The dolls are generally kept year round as a symbol of fertility. Home hearth fires are put out and re-lit, and a besom is place by the front door to symbolize sweeping out the old and welcoming the new. Candles are lit and placed in each room of the house to honor the re-birth of the Sun.
That said, this season belongs to Brigid, the Celtic goddess who in later times became revered as a Christian saint. Originally, her festival was on February 1, but the Catholic Church later replaced this festival with Candlemas Day on February 2, which is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and features candlelight processions.

Another traditional symbol of Imbolc is the plough. In some areas, this is the first day of ploughing in preparation of the first planting of crops. A decorated plough is dragged from door to door, with costumed children following asking for food, drinks, or money. Should they be refused, the household is paid back by having its front garden ploughed up. In other areas, the plough is decorated and then Whiskey, the “water of life” is poured over it. Pieces of cheese and bread are left by the plough and in the newly turned furrows as offerings to the nature spirits. It is considered taboo to cut or pick plants during this time.
Various other names for this Greater Sabbat are Imbolgc Brigantia (Caledonni), Imbolic (Celtic), Disting (Teutonic, Feb 14th), Lupercus (Strega), St. Bridget’s Day (Christian), Candlemas, Candlelaria (Mexican), the Snowdrop Festival. The Festival of Lights, or the Feast of the Virgin. All Virgin and Maiden Goddesses are honored at this time.

Celebration

Imbolc is a festival of light, reflecting the lengthening of the day and the hope of spring. It is traditional to light all the lamps of the house for a few minutes on Imbolc, and rituals often involve a great deal of candles.
Now is the time to wear white, go for long walks through the snow and search for signs of spring, and for honoring the maiden goddess. It is a time of personal growth and renewal. Do some spring cleaning, meditate, have a cleansing bath.

Imbolc Lore

Deities of Imbolc: All Virgin/Maiden Goddesses, Brighid, Aradia, Athena, Inanna, Gaia, and Februa, and Gods of Love and Fertility, Aengus Og, Eros, and Februus.

Symbolism of Imbolc: Purity, Growth and Re-Newal, The Re-Union of the Goddess and the God, Fertility, and dispensing of the old and making way for the new.

Symbols of Imbolc: Brideo’gas, Besoms, White Flowers, Candle Wheels, Brighid’s Crosses, Priapic Wands (acorn-tipped), and Ploughs.

Herbs of Imbolc: Angelica, Basil, Bay Laurel, Blackberry, Celandine, Coltsfoot, Heather, Iris, Myrrh, Tansy, Violets, and all white or yellow flowers.

Foods of Imbolc: Pumpkin seeds, Sunflower seeds, Poppyseed Cakes, muffins, scones, and breads, all dairy products, Peppers, Onions, Garlic, Raisins, Spiced Wines and Herbal Teas.

Incense of Imbolc: Basil, Bay, Wisteria, Cinnamon, Violet, Vanilla, Myrrh.

Colors of Imbolc: White, Pink, Red, Yellow, lt. Green, Brown.

Stones of Imbolc: Amethyst, Bloodstone, Garnet, Ruby, Onyx, Turquoise.

Activities of Imbolc: Candle Lighting, Stone Gatherings, Snow Hiking and Searching for Signs of Spring, Making of Brideo’gas and Bride’s Beds, Making Priapic Wands, Decorating Ploughs, Feasting, and Bon Fires.

The Rituals

– I –

Typical Wiccan Imbolc ritual

The Altar should be provided with:

-a gold and a silver candle (lit)

-a cauldron filled with earth or salt into which eight unlit candles have been set. A white candle in the middle surrounded by (in order)a red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, and violet candle. The colored candles should form a circle around the white.

-Incense and burner (the incense should be cinnamon, you can just use regular cinnamon on a charcoal disc)

Tools:

-Consecrate a circle and call the quarters.

-Recite the following Prayer:

This night the Mother sleeps in Winter
Dreaming of the Life to come
Clothed in silent white
She rests from the labour of birth
Born at Solstice, the Child Sun grows strong
Hear us, Child of the Mother
Bring to us the Fire of Life

-Take the gold candle and light the white candle in the center of the cauldron, then use the white candle to light the rest saying as you do:

Fire of Breath (violet)
Fire of Desire(purple)
Fire of Purity(blue)
Fire of Creation(green)
Fire of Knowledge(yellow)
Fire of Spirit(orange)
Fire of Life(red)

-Return the white candle to the center of the cauldron and say:

I stand in the center
My heart is a child’s
I celebrate the Seed
Awaken and grow
I stand in the center
My heart is a child’s
I celebrate the Seed
Awaken and grow
I stand in the center
My heart is a child’s
I celebrate the Seed
Awaken and grow
Sun’s Flame, Brigid’s Flame
Bring us light
Bring us life
Awaken the Mother
The time of Growth draws nigh
Sun’s Flame, Brigid’s Flame
Bring us warmth
Bring us growth
Awaken the Seed
To grow and prosper
Sun’s Flame, Brigid’s Flame
Bring us light
Bring us life
Bring us warmth
Bring us growth.

-Meditate on new beginnings and future plans, this is also a good time for initiations and consecrations.

-Snuff the candles when you are done. Close the Circle.

~ ~ ~ )0( ~ ~ ~

– II –

Tools:
In addition to your magical tools, you will need:

* A White Altar Cloth
* Light Green Taper Goddess Candle
* Light Yellow Taper God Candle
* 13 White 4″ Stick Candles
* Brideo’ga*
* Small Woven Basket with White Flowers
* Pentacle Candle Wheel
* Handful of Acorns
* Cauldron
* Snow/Crushed Ice
* Small White Pillar Candle
* Potpourri Holder
* Tea Lite
* Basil, Bay, Heather Flowers, Cinnamon and Vanilla Potpourri Blend
* Long Wooden Stick Matches

Preparation:
Sweep area, moving in deosil direction. Outline your circle with white cord Angelica leaves. Place Pentacle Candle Wheel in the center of altar. Place the lt. green taper Goddess candle to the top left of altar and the lt. yellow taper God candle to the top right of altar. Put the white flowers in the basket as bedding for the Bride’s Bed, then place the Brideo’ga atop the flowers. Place the basket in front of the Goddess candle, to the left of the Pentacle Candle Wheel. Place the acorns in front of the God candle, to the right of the Pentacle Wheel. Place the tea lite in the bottom of potpourri holder, and put holder at front center of the alter. Place white pillar candle in the middle of the cauldron, fill cauldron about 1″-2″ with snow or crushed ice, and position on floor in front of altar. Put the container with potpourri where it can be reached easily. Place the rest of your tools and props according to personal preference. Bathe or shower for purification. Ground and center. When ready, put on some soothing music associated with this Sabbat and your ritual.

Cast circle by holding out your right hand and tracing over the cord or leaves in a clockwise direction. As you trace over the outline envision flames of pure white rising up along the perimeter. When the beginning and the end join the circle is complete. Step up to the cauldron and light the white pillar candle, saying:

“Amidst the darkness the Lady is stirring,
Gently awakening from frozen dreams,
All the world has awaited this moment The return of the Maiden,
And Her promise of oncoming Spring.”

Call the Quarters.
As this is a time to honor Mother Earth as she wakes from her winter’s recovery of giving rebirth to the Sun King at Yule, start with North, the element Earth. Pick up the container of potpourri, step up to the altar and pour some into the holder, saying:

“Powers of Earth, the Maiden awakens!
Come join the circle and share in the light.”

Put the container back where it was. Light the white candle at the North point of the Pentacle Candle Wheel. Continue, by waving your hand over the potpourri as if to create a breeze on which to carry the scent, saying:

“Powers of Air, the Maiden awakens!
Come join the circle and share in the light.”

Light the white candle at the East point of the Pentacle Candle Wheel. Light the tea candle in the bottom of the potpourri holder, saying:

“Powers of Fire, the Maiden awakens!
Come join the circle and share in the light.”

Light the white candle at the South point of the Pentacle Candle Wheel. Pour some water into the holder with the potpourri, saying:

“Powers of Water, the Maiden awakens!
Come join the circle and share in the light.”

Light the white candle at the West point of the Pentacle Candle Wheel. Remove the white candle from the top point of the Pentacle. Since Akasha is the omnipresent, it need not be invoked. Light the candle and invoke the Goddess and the God by lighting the lt. green Goddess candle and the lt. yellow God candle with the white candle. Place the white candle back in the top point of the Pentacle Candle Wheel, saying:

“Be with me now, oh Ancients, eternal,
Hear now my prayers, hopes and dreams.
The Goddess has wakened, once more as the Maiden
By loving caresses from the strengthened Sun King.”

Light the inner cross points of the Pentacle Candle Wheel, starting with the cross point to the right of the North point. Light all 5 cross points in succession, saying:

“The Earth now grows warmer, as the Wheel again turns
And as each passing day adds strength, To the Sun King’s rays
The Maiden, of his gift of life, now silently does yearn.”

Take a couple of the acorns from in front of the God candle and place them in the Bride’s Bed with the Brideo’ga. Light the three aspects of the Goddess candles. All aspects are white because She is the Triple Goddess appearing as the Maiden, pure, and renewed. Step back from the altar and contemplate the light that is brought about by the re-union of the God and the Goddess saying:

“Behold the God and Goddess,
Lord of the Forest and his Bride,
Once again the Earth is blessed
With life anew inside.
Seeds shall soon begin to sprout
And creatures shall young bear
For this is the Promise, the Cycle of Life
That is born of the love They share.”

Now is the time for meditation and any spellworkings. Spellworkings associated with Imbolc include those for fertility, defining and focusing on goals for the future, organization, health, and protection. Next, celebrate with Cakes and Ale (Poppyseed Cakes* and Spiced Tea*) Ceremony, saving some for the wee Folkes, outside. Thank the God and Goddess for Their presence snuff their candles. Thank and release the Quarters, saying:

“Though you leave this circle, tonight,
Water, Fire, Air, and Earth
Your symbols shall linger on a while
Blessing my home and hearth.
The herbs that scent this room tonight,
Were chosen with loving care,
To bless me, my family and my friends,
And my sisters and brothers everywhere.”

Snuff each of the white candles at the directional points of the Pentacle Candle Wheel, starting with the candle at the top point first, then the West point and working in a widdershins direction. Snuff the inner cross point candles also in a widdershins direction. Finally snuff the three aspects of the Goddess candles. Step back from the altar and face the cauldron with the white pillar candle still burning brightly saying:

“I honor Thee, Maiden, most blessed Bride
As your candle burns through this night
And thank you for the renewed life you offer us all
As you emerge from the dark to the light.”

Release the circle. Clean up, place the cauldron from the floor onto the middle of the alter. Let the candle burn out by itself. Place the potpourri in a spot where its scent and blessings fill the house. You are done.

—————————————————————————-

*references*

The Witches’ Voice Inc.


http://www.celticspirit.org
http://www.wicca.com
http://www.mythicjourneys.org

Jan 2011 – The 1st Moon

by with No Comment The Moon


New Moon January 4, 2011 02:04:33 AM

* * *

Full moon January 19, 2011 02:22:56 PM

* * *

Cancer Full Moon – January 19 and Inner and Outer Reality Dynamics

The Cancer full moon January 19 is the fourth of five full moons in a row that happen at the very last degree of the sign. Where is 29 degrees Cancer and Capricorn in your birth chart? Cancer and Capricorn have something very important to teach us. Cancer represents our inner, emotional world. Capricorn represents our role in the world – our profession, our destiny path, our contribution, recognition, worldly achievement and remuneration for our efforts.

This polarity pair invites us to get in touch with how the state of our inner reality creates our outer reality – how our outer circumstances are a reflection of our inner consciousness. A fear-based, victim, low self-esteem attitude generates relationships and circumstances that substantiate that mindset. Affirmations, intentions and prayers to the contrary don’t have a chance if we sabotage them with negativity, complaining, fear and doubt.

Obviously our inner and outer realities constantly interact. Our experiences as a child played a big role in forming the inner reality from which we now operate. We were also born with predispositions and karmic imprints. Of course, loving, secure, stable and uplifting environments support us in reducing fear and instilling a base of love in our consciousness. How do we attract and create this higher quality of life?

The Capricorn/Cancer pair teaches us the necessity of upgrading the state of our inner reality in order to create sustainable shifts in our lives. To move to another level of manifestation and fulfillment, we must identify the fear-based dynamics of our inner reality and then do what it takes to cultivate a love-based operating mode. Our inner reality is something that we CAN and MUST do something about. For example, when our psyche no longer needs relationships to feel loved, validated, supported and secure, we can easily let go of abusive relationships and attract more wholesome partnerships.

Cancer invites us to love ourselves, to nurture our bodies, to be kind to our feelings, to enjoy the richness of our emotions and to honor our emotions as the instinctual communication mechanism of our soul. by Gururattan

Solar Eclipse Brings Excitement and Change

by with No Comment AstroLogicsAstrology

Only four days into the New Year, and the Universe is already gearing up for action to give your world a boost of excitement and change! Within a period of four hours, on January 4th, you’ll feel the effects of both the partial Solar Eclipse in Capricorn and the Jupiter-Uranus conjunction.

This particular eclipse, occurring in Capricorn, will pair a powerful New Moon with the intensity of the Sun to present you with a focused message: Allow your heart and mind to become one. The Universe wants you to perfect one particular area of your life so you can take a giant leap toward more fully developing both who you are as a person and who you could become.

The one thing this Solar Eclipse will not allow you to do is stand still. You can either dive into these energies and initiate some sort of major life change yourself, or you can sit back and wait for some life-altering event to occur in the weeks to come. If you opt for the latter, you won’t have control over the events, and they will likely be much more challenging and stressful, whereas opting for the former might just be a lot of fun!

The areas of your life that this eclipse will impact most will vary depending on your Sun Sign:

Aries: You should push harder at work and focus on your greatest ambitions.

Taurus: Try to pick some aspect of your life and set your sights higher than you ever dreamed.

Cancer: You’ll want to make new arrangements in close relationships and you’ll need to work on adjusting to meet those.

Gemini: Immerse yourself in confidential and financial agreements.

Leo: Look into matters involving work or health, or both if you’re feeling really ambitious.

Virgo: You’ll just want love and fun right now.

Libra: Try to focus on home and family matters.

Scorpio: You must manage your daily schedule more efficiently.

Sagittarius: You’ll want to try to get a firmer grip on your personal finances.

Capricorn: The Solar Eclipse is in your sign and you’ll find you’re at a significant turning point in your journey. You’ll need to reflect carefully on your choices to determine what comes next.

Aquarius: You’ll just need to take time out for more inner reflection.

Pisces: This is a time for you to make new friends and sort out longer-term plans.

Many recent transits have required a lot of work on your part, but they’re about to be offset by the joint action of Jupiter and Uranus. After jaunting along together since May, these two planets will soon part ways, but not before bestowing one final gift – the gift of good times, adventure and lucky breaks. The best part of it all is that whatever happens will come as a complete surprise, so you won’t have to do anything to make it happen.

The Solar Eclipse will affect everyone differently, and its influence will last for many months. You may have an idea of which aspect of your life is best suited for an upgrade, but to really appreciate how you can make this eclipse work specifically for you, it will help to know what the Universe has planned for your year.
by Astrology.com

The Metal Rabbit

by with No Comment Astrology

February 3, 2011 ushers in the Chinese New Year and the Year of the Metal Rabbit, a time projected to bring peace, tranquility and diplomacy. However, the Metal element gives this bunny a competitive, aggressive, cold and sometimes insensitive side. This is the first Year of the Metal Rabbit since 1951!
source: astrology.com

Sadhana Weekend

by with No Comment Upcoming

Wahe Guru Ji Ka Khalsa Wahe Guru Ji Ki Fateh

Kundalini Yoga & Meditation
during the ambrosial hours

“Sadhana (daily spiritual discipline) gives you the concept to penetrate deep into the self to relate to the oneness of god. Then duality is conquered, prosperity comes, and grace and radiance become your shields.”

— Yogi Bhajan

Everyone is welcome!

This weekend Sat Dec 11th & Sun Dec 12th

SATURDAY IN AVENTURA

The Biscayne Institutes for Health & Living
2785 N.E. 183rd Street
Williams Island Blvd
Aventura (North Miami Beach)

For further information regarding Sadhana in Aventura contact Amrita Kaur at: 954-983-5127 or 305-318-8731 or amritakauryoga@gmail.com

SUNDAY IN HALLANDALE
Held the 2nd Sunday of every month

Om”Echaye
1100 E Hallandale Bch Blvd
Hallandale 33009

For further information regarding Sadhana in Hallandale contact Jiwan Kaur at: 954-445-6775 jiwankaur@gmail.com

~ 4:30am Japji Sahib

~ 5am – 7am Yoga and Meditation

*You may come at 4:30 for the reading of Japji (copies will be provided for those who wish to join in chanting) or at 5am for the yoga and meditation practice

Donations welcome

astro-alert

Mercury Moves

by with No Comment AstroLogics

astro-alert

On December 10, mischievous Mercury makes yet another semi-annual retrograde journey, and just in time to potentially add a little extra stress to your holidays.

But have no fear! The key word here is “potentially.” As with any astrological event, the final result rests in your hands. There are plenty of tricks and tips that will help Mercury’s backwards motion work in your favor. Plus, Mercury will add a pleasant little boost to its activities on the 10th by moving into a positive aspect with romantic Venus.

The key to dealing with Mercury is understanding that the messenger planet is something of a prankster, it is in no way malicious. Mercury likes to keep you on your toes, reminding you that even the best-laid plans can go awry. However, it’s by learning to deal with these little setbacks that we become more successful at tackling some of life’s bigger problems.

In this particular case, Mercury will travel through Capricorn, which means it will carry a more practical message: Keep an eye on your spending! This is a wise — if not enthusiastically embraced — reminder around the holidays. Still, take a little extra time to go over your budget in detail and try not to overspend. In fact, given the tendencies of retrograde Mercury, it would be smart to set a bit of extra money set aside if possible, just in case.

In general, if it seems like little things are somewhat problematic — electronics are on the fritz, communications keep going afoul or delays seem interminable — remember to take a step back, breathe deeply and let your mind wander. These things are bound to happen from time to time. Instead of allowing stress to build up, use the time to rejuvenate yourself with a bit of quiet meditation or introspection.

And don’t forget, the 10th will also see some extra romance once Mercury and Venus take a turn around the dance floor in Scorpio. This combination of communication (Mercury), romance (Venus) and sexy seduction (Scorpio) is sure to help turn up the heat on these cold winter nights!

A bit of introspection can work wonders to help pull you out of a rut or keep your mind clear during more trying times. But how well do you really know yourself? Are you prepared to fully use your strengths (and even your weaknesses) to your favor? The alignment of the planets at the time of your birth plays a critical role in your personal development.

Hello Happy Place

by with No Comment Adriana writes...Meditation

Life brings us to intense places from time to time. Intense in every good sense of the word. Even challenges are great in life, they give us the opportunity to expand and keep the ebb and flow of life from being still.
It was around 1999 and shifts were taking place in every corner of my life. I was experiencing challenges in my life and therefore searching for ways to help myself get through them with ease and grace. I remember I was at the book store in Manhattan and in a self-help book I read “happy place meditation” … I immediately started researching. Back then I didn’t have the easy access to the world wide web so researching was definitely a hands on task. I read the little I could find about it, bits and pieces here and there but nothing that gave me the sense of knowing exactly what to do, how to get started with it…
I went home and sat on the floor next to my dog, my greatest friend. He was looking right at me with such kindness. Spending this great moment with him helped me feel so relaxed. …meanwhile, in the back of my mind all those things I had read earlier were still churning.
I kept saying to myself, I’m going to try meditating to visit this happy place.

I was sound asleep, that night, a night no special from any other, or so I thought. Something made me open my eyes, this strange force, a hungry curiosity drove me to get out of bed, I didn’t know what I was looking for but I knew exactly where to go, what to do. And I knew there was something asking to be discovered. The night was still, the windows were opened and i could hear the sounds of the nature peeking in,, but nothing could distract me from what I was seeking. This force was taking me, moving me, bringing me to my closet. Even though I know what’s behind my closet door I opened the door feeling like I was about to find something unknown. And so it was.
I walk inside the closet and begin to walk thru the hanging clothes, I can hear the hangers’ hooks rubbing against the rod as I move the clothes to get through,, Suddenly I notice the smell has changed …the scent of fresh humid earth was so prominent and when I realize where I am, I find myself walking out of a jungle like place and I’m standing at the edge of a trail. “But this is not just any jungle” I thought to myself.
“Where am i?” I said.
The trees, the plants, the leaves, its all alive!, I noticed. I stand at the edge of this trail that goes I don’t know where, and I take a moment to observe this world, this place my eyes see and cannot believe. The ground looks beautiful, almost golden brown earth, the sky is clear and of a perfect baby blue. The yellow radiant Sun inviting me to enjoy this perfect day in this perfect place.
I take a step forward wondering if I am even allowed to walk thru this very beautiful place, not yet understanding whats happening. A few butterflies flutter by and I can hear them giggle as they play, a million questions invade my mind. So I give myself a moment to look around before I go anywhere . …im not even sure I know how to get back home from here,, but that’s not a concern at the moment.
The weather is perfect. On the other side of the trail there is the most perfect field of green grass I’ve ever seen and here and there its decorated wit beautiful patches of flowers of every color, I can smell their fragrance… I sigh..
I slowly begin to walk down the trail exploring and wanting to catch every detail of this dreamland when I notice up in the distance what looks like a twinkle. A light that sparkles brighter and bigger. I focus my eyes to see better until it becomes clear that something very bright is approaching … it’s a pegasus!! Oh my sweet creator!! Standing in front of me for my eyes to see, a beautiful white horse with lavendar colored hair and the most glorious looking shimmery lavendar wings. “a miracle standing in front of me” I thought. The creature stands firm on the ground, I cant stop staring in awe, its wings, its size; then it looks at me and with a graceful bow says “greetings. I am Wah, we are so pleased you made it” and smiles!!!!! I felt as if I had known this creature all my life. My heart was pounding, I couldn’t wait to get closer, to touch it, to hug it ..i was still expecting to wake up from a very beautiful dream.
We flew across this wonder land soaring through the air, “OhMyGoddess!” I kept thinking “this is a dream come true!”. We stopped somewhere way up at the top of a ledge where the view was breathtaking. Land and water, trees and fields of grass, of flowers, of so much to discover, yet somehow it all seemed so familiar. I’ve dreamed of so many things I see here”, I said to Wah. Then he explained what this place was.” …There is a level of existence, an inter- dimensional realm where bodies of light come together with the purpose of co-creating inJoy with much ease, much more than the physicality of the third dimension and without the density and conditions of the human mid. We are deep in your creative body of consciousness. This place is your favorite world, it is where you come when you seek relaxation and rest from your physical existence. You call it your happy place. You have met many wonderful creatures here and have made many good friends, for eons, this place has been a part of you. We have known each other for many moons and have been through so very many shifts. …….keep calm and breathe dear friend”

I took a breath and opened my eyes. I was home, There was a sweet feeling of fulfillment through out my whole self, and I realized I was smiling

What a great meditation. I am in Gratitude.

Yule

by WiccaYule

Falling between the 19th and the 23rd day of December, and also known as the Winter Solstice, Yule (pronounced EWE-elle) is the time when the dark half of the year yields to the light half, marking the shortest day of the year accompanied by what is also known as Solstice Night, the longest night of the year.

We now begin our return closer to the sun, as the sky holds the sun for a little longer each day, it begins to get a little warmer as well.
In ancient times this moment in the wheel of the year was celebrated joyfully, honoring the “rebirth of the Oak King”, the Sun King (the return of the sun), Giver of Life that envelopes the frozen Earth, giving her the warmth she needs to bear forth the seeds she protected in her womb through the fall and winter days. Bonfires decorated the fields, as the crops, trees and gardens were sprinkled with cider as a blessing.

It was tradition going from house to house offering gifts, such as handmade baskets of evergreen boughs, filled with clove spiked apples and oranges, and wheat stalks dusted with flour. The apples and oranges represented the sun, the boughs were symbolic of immortality, the wheat stalks portrayed the harvest, and the flour was accomplishment of triumph, light, and life. Holly, mistletoe, and ivy not only decorated the outside, but also the inside of homes. It was to extend invitation to Nature Sprites to come and join the celebration. A sprig of Holly was kept near the door all year long as a constant invitation for good fortune to pay visit to the residents.
The ceremonial Yule log was the highlight of the festival. In accordance to tradition, the log must either have been harvested from the householder’s land the previous year (kept for this specific purpose), or given as a gift… it must never have been bought. Once in the house, placed in the fireplace it was decorated in seasonal greenery, doused with cider or ale, and dusted with flour before set ablaze. The log would burn throughout the night, then smolder for 12 days after before being ceremonially put out. Ash is the traditional wood of the Yule log. It is the sacred world tree of the Teutons, known as Yggdrasil. An herb of the Sun, Ash brings light into the hearth at the Solstice.
A different type of Yule log, perhaps more suitable for modern practitioners would be Oak or Pine. For the three candles, find a smaller branch of oak or pine, and flatten one side so it sets upright. Carve, or drill, three holes on the top side to hold a red, a green, and a white candle for the season; or a green, a gold, and a black candle for the Sun God; or a white, a red, and a black candle for the Great Mother Goddess. Continue to decorate with greenery, red and gold bows, rosebuds, cloves, and dust with flour.
Deities of Yule are all Newborn Gods, Sun Gods, Mother Goddesses, and Triple Goddesses. The best known would be Dagda, and Brighid, the daughter of Dagda. Brighid taught the smiths the arts of fire tending and the secrets of metal work. Brighid’s flame, like the flame of the new light, pierces the darkness of the spirit and mind, while Dagda’s cauldron assures that Nature will always provide for all the children.

Symbolism of Yule: Rebirth of the Sun, The longest night of the year, The Winter Solstice, Introspect, Planning for the Future.

Symbols of Yule: Yule log, or small Yule log with 3 candles, evergreen boughs or wreaths, holly, mistletoe hung in doorways, gold pillar candles, baskets of clove studded fruit, a simmering pot of wassail, poinsettias, christmas cactus.

Herbs of Yule: Bayberry, blessed thistle, evergreen, frankincense holly, laurel, mistletoe, clove, oak, pine, sage, yellow cedar.

Foods of Yule: Cookies and caraway cakes soaked in cider, fruits (mainly apples and oranges), nuts, eggnog, ginger tea, spiced cider and ale.

Incense of Yule: Pine, cedar, bayberry, cinnamon.

Colors of Yule: Red, green, gold, white, silver, yellow, orange.

Stones of Yule: Rubies, bloodstones, garnets, emeralds, diamonds.

Activities of Yule: Caroling, wassailing the trees and crops, burning the Yule log, decorating the Yule tree, exchanging of presents, kissing under the mistletoe, dancing by the bonfire, honoring Kriss Kringle the Germanic Pagan God of Yule

Spellworkings of Yule: Peace, harmony, love, abundance and increased happiness.

Deities of Yule: Goddesses-Brighid, Dagda, Isis, Demeter, Gaea, Diana, The Great Mother. Gods-Apollo, Ra, Odin, Lugh, The Oak King, The Sun King, The Horned One, The Divine Child.

For a Harvest & Mabon ritual visit Divine Muse: Winter Solstice Ritual

Yule Recipes

Moravian Scotch Cakes

1 1/2 cups veg. butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
4 cups flour
2 tsp. caraway seeds

Mix the flour, caraway seeds and sugar together. Work in the butter with the finger tips until well blended. Roll out about 1/3 inch thick on floured board. Cut in small squares. Bake on a greased cookie sheet at 325° about 15 minutes. When cold, cover with icing and sprinkle with colored sugar.

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Acorn Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

1 large onion, chopped (1 cup)
1 Tbsp. vegetable oil
1 1/2 lbs. sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed (5 cups)
1 small acorn squash, seeded and cubed
13 3/4 oz. vegetable broth
4 Tbsp. rice milk
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
2 Tbsp. sliced almonds; toasted
ground nutmeg

Heat oil in a large saucepan. Then over medium heat sauté onions until golden, about 8 minutes. Add potatoes, squash and broth. Simmer, covered, until vegetables are tender, about 25 minutes. Cool slightly. Working in small batches, place the vegetables with the liquid in a blender or food processor. Whirl until pureed. Return the puree to the saucepan. Stir in milk to desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper. Heat over low heat. Remove to heated bowls. Top each serving with a sprinkle of almonds and nutmeg.

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Sweet Potatoes and Cranberries

6 sweet potatoes
1 cup cranberry sauce
3/4 cup fresh orange juice
1/2 cup brown sugar
3/4 tsp. orange rind
3/4 tsp. cinnamon
1 1/2 Tbsp. veg. butter
1 cup cranberries
1/4 tsp. nutmeg

Boil sweet potatoes in their skins until barely tender. Peel, slice thickly, and arrange in a buttered baking dish. In a saucepan, mix remaining ingredients. Simmer, uncovered, for five minutes. Pour over sweet potatoes and bake uncovered at 350° for 20 minutes or until glazed and hot.

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Yule Moon Cookies

1 cup butter
1 1/4 cup sugar
2 tsp. grated lemon peel
1/4 tsp. salt
1 1/3 cup flour
1 1/2 cup grated almonds (blanched)
1 tsp. vanilla

Icing:
2 cups sifted confectioner’s sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
2 1/2 Tbsp. water

Cream together butter and sugar until fluffy and light. Add grated lemon peel, salt, flour, grated almonds, and 1 tsp. vanilla; mix thoroughly. Place dough in bowl. Cover and chill thoroughly. When the dough is well chilled; or the next day, roll out dough to 1/8″ thickness and cut with moon/crescent cookie cutter. Place 1/2″ apart on un-greased baking sheet. Bake in preheated 375° oven for 8-10 minutes.

Icing:
While cookies bake, combine confectioner’s sugar, vanilla and water. Spread over the tops of cookies while still warm, but not too hot, as icing will melt. Thin with additional drops of water if glaze is too thick. Allow cookies to cool.

Makes: 10 dozen cookies

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Yuletide Slaw

4 cups red cabbage, shredded
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, corse ground
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup green onions, chopped
2 teaspoons sugar
1/4 cup salad oil
2 tablespoons parsley
1 green bell pepper, chopped

Combine and toss the vegetables together. Mix salt, pepper, salad oil, lemon juice, sugar and parsley and pour over the vegetable mixture. Refrigerate for 1 hour, Toss briskly before serving.

Makes 8 servings.

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Hot Spiced Wassail (non-alcoholic)

4 cups cranberry juice
6 cinnamon sticks
5 cups apple cider
1 orange, studded with whole cloves
1 cup water
1 apple, cored and sliced
1/2 cup brown sugar

Mix juice, cider, and water in large saucepan or crock pot. Add cinnamon sticks, clove studded orange, and apple slices. Simmer mixture for 4 hours. Serve hot.

Makes 12 servings.

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Solstice Surprise Salad

1 large unpeeled cucumber
1 15 1/2 ounce can whole chestnuts
4 ounces cheddar cheese
3 tablespoons French dressing

Wash and dry cucumber. Cut into quarters, lengthwise, then thinly slice into a non-metal bowl. Grate cheddar cheese and add to cucumber. Break up the chestnuts into fairly large pieces and add. Toss well to mix, adding the French dressing. Chill for one hour before serving.

Makes 6 servings.

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Raspberry Marsh-Bars

1/4 pound butter
10 ounce raspberry chocolate chips
12 ounce can evaporated milk
2 ounces bittersweet chocolate
3 1/2 cups sugar
7 ounce jar marshmallow creme
1 heaping tablespoon of instant coffee
1 teaspoon vanilla

In heavy saucepan or double boiler melt the butter. Add evaporated milk, sugar, and coffee. Bring to a rolling boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and add raspberry chocolate chips and bittersweet chocolate. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are melted. Add the marshmallow creme and stir until well blended. Stir in the vanilla. Pour into a slightly greased 9″ x13″ pan. Refrigerate. Cut into bite-sized bars when cooled.
Makes 12 servings.

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Recipes sources:
Celtic Connection www.wicca.com
Ravenna’s Wheel of the Year www.angelfire.com/wa3/angelline