Ahh, I wish I’d seen this post before I did a Brigid’s Day Guided Walk! Interestingly I discovered that the tradition of gathering rushes was done by family groups on the eve of St. Brigid’s Day, and always in a ‘neighbour’s’ field, as the presence of them indicated poor land and no-one liked to admit they had poor fields!
Haha! That's hilarious! That makes all the fields around here poor land, then! It is very boggy, and the earth is almost black, to me it looks rich and nutritious, but probably isnt... I don't know much about permaculture, but I'm starting to get interested. I'm looking forward to hearing all about your Brigid's Day tour! 💕
Thanks, Clare! So far, so good. I'm feeling positive, let's hope it lasts! 😂 Renewal and refreshment is what we need at this time of year. Hope all is good with you, and thanks for stopping by. 💕
Thank you for this, Ali. In my world of the northern US, we have just passed what is typically midwinter. After nearly 90 inches of snow last winter, we have had only 7 the entire season thus far, which is very unsettling and wrong. Earth needs our blessings, rituals and care now more than ever. Even so, we can feel subtle shifts in the season, as what I imagine as Brigid's serpent uncoils from her cave, sensing the first stirrings of life in the embers.
Wow... that really is unsettling. Although I can't even begin to imagine what 90 ins of snow looks like. To have only 7 this year is quite a shocking contrast... I'm assuming the 90 ins is the norm? I agree, the earth needs us more than ever, and I hope more people realise that, especially our leaders, before it is too late. I love the imagery of Brigid's serpent uncoiling! Serpents were sometimes associated with women and goddesses in other cultures; I've often wondered about Patrick banishing all serpents from Ireland... some circles of thought consider that to be a reference to the druids, but maybe it was a women's cult, or priestesses, would make more sense. Anyway, I hope the spring comes into you soon with its normal vigour. I'm just longing for a bit of sun. Thanks for sharing your knowledge here! 💕
The average snowfall here is about 50 inches, so winter 2022/2023 was close to setting a record amount, but still, a winter here with seven inches of snow is just...wrong. My recent post explores the Brigid / serpent energy of the awakening earth, if you would like to take a look. Western civilizations/religions have historically demonized both serpents and women, so I see a strong connection there. Bright blessings xo
I tried to find something that would pliantly form a Brigid's Cross, but failed. Didn't search too hard, as I am still busy packing. I loved the paragraph about the Cailleach handing over to Brigid! Lovely way to address the process. P.S. Just resent email to you.
Hi Robin! I guess any kind of reed or rush would work. I cant imagine anything 'woody' would be flexible enough. I see your emails there, thank you! You're still packing? I bet you cant wait for this all to be done with. Am about to feed Carys, will get back to your shortly. 😘
Thanks Bee! Delighted to see you here! Well, my cross is not the beautiful object I would like it to be... you need deft fingers, and they definitely involve skills I don't have, but still, I enjoyed the experience so much, and hopefully will get better every year. How are things with you?
Lisa, you just gave me the shivers with that comment... my best and closest friend once said exactly that to me years ago, which started me thinking, what is my church? I wouldn't be here, writing and doing all the things I've done lately, if she hadn't said that to me. I realised that my church is landscape, always had been since I was a child. And that was what brought me to the Cailleach, initially, the Creator and Protector of the landscape. Everything since then has fallen into place. Thank you for the reminder. I am seeing this friend again soon. You have reminded me to thank her for it. 🥰
Loving your description of turbulence as the season changes hands from an Cailleach to Brigid - I’ve been feeling the promise of warmth amid the harsh switching this time contends - always anticipating the bitter criss cross that happens up until and beyond mid March this time offers a glimmer and it’s easy to understand the Brigid of the blacksmith right now
Oh that is so true, thank you for bringing that image to mind! Brigid as the blacksmith, forging the tools of peace and war, of life and death... more transitions and uncomfortable juxtapositions right here! And all part of our messy coexistence on this earth. Words of power, hands wielding power, fired by the lightning bolt of Imbas! ⚡️🔥💚
Unfortunately, living in Canada, these early signs of spring are still under snow. Your writing allows me to know that new life is waiting under the white.
Im sure the pristine beauty of a snowy landscape wears thin after a while. While our winters are nothing like yours, there have been many past Imbolcs when it has been snowing, so cruel for all the little lambs out in the fields. So far this year, I've not seen any lambs yet, although this is mostly cattle country. I can imagine the anxiety of our ancestors waiting for the warmth of spring so they could plant their crops. Some farmers here cover their fields with plastic to mimic a greenhouse effect and force seeds to germinate. That layer of snow won't last, beneath it nature is already doing its work. We have to trust. Sometimes that's not easy though.
Our winters in my part of New Brunswick, Canada, consist mostly of snow, followed by rain and cold. We don't get enough snow to go snowshoeing and it's tricky to walk on paths and sidewalks covered in ice:(
I am grateful that there is a marked change in seasons. Renewal and death are inevitable. It's a good reminder.
I'm delighted to discover the ritual of Imbolc. I will have to find a way to celebrate it next year, knowing that what it outside the window covers the promise of growth.
I am a typical Tuarean... I like to feel steady on my feet and well grounded... a layer of ice between my feet and the ground would send me into a panic! 😂 I would definitely be a snowsoes rather than ice-skates or skis kind of person! You have reminded me of why I started the Cailleach project, that winter, or the threat of it, or it's slow emergence from it overwhelmed me for the most of the year. Recognising all the Celtic festivals, even in a small way, changed that dramatically for me. Maybe it could help you. I'll get the link and post it here for you...
Here you go. I'm not a follower of any religious practice, but consider myself spiritual without religion. So my practices may not align with accepted norms of mainstream or religious practises. I try to be observant and to be a responsible human on this planet. My practice is what feels authentic to me. I think that makes it genuine and meaningful. Hopefully, it resonates with others too. I think its all about coming into our own power and being a force for good in the world, rather than moulding ourselves to fit into a particular doctrine. Having said that, I recognise so much truth in the 'old ways'.💕
What a lovely post. The seasonal transition (although most welcome) doesn't quite feel like it's found it's rythm yet. For me, I still feel a little out of sorts. I suppose that's a lesson we learn in these between times - go with the flow, and trust that Nature will do her thing all in good time.
Hi Sarah, I agree. It's mixed messages, but there's no fake news from nature! As you say, its a lesson to let go of fixed perceptions and step into that liminal space that begins with trust. It's hard to do. And that is where my thoughts were yesterday, although I'm still working through it. We tend to want to hurry through the transitions because they are troublesome and unknowns. But really, they are a time of learning. Thank you, your comment is enlightening... 💕
Ahh, I wish I’d seen this post before I did a Brigid’s Day Guided Walk! Interestingly I discovered that the tradition of gathering rushes was done by family groups on the eve of St. Brigid’s Day, and always in a ‘neighbour’s’ field, as the presence of them indicated poor land and no-one liked to admit they had poor fields!
Haha! That's hilarious! That makes all the fields around here poor land, then! It is very boggy, and the earth is almost black, to me it looks rich and nutritious, but probably isnt... I don't know much about permaculture, but I'm starting to get interested. I'm looking forward to hearing all about your Brigid's Day tour! 💕
😊
Beautiful piece, Ali! I hope the early days of Spring are treating you well :)
Thanks, Clare! So far, so good. I'm feeling positive, let's hope it lasts! 😂 Renewal and refreshment is what we need at this time of year. Hope all is good with you, and thanks for stopping by. 💕
Thank you for this, Ali. In my world of the northern US, we have just passed what is typically midwinter. After nearly 90 inches of snow last winter, we have had only 7 the entire season thus far, which is very unsettling and wrong. Earth needs our blessings, rituals and care now more than ever. Even so, we can feel subtle shifts in the season, as what I imagine as Brigid's serpent uncoils from her cave, sensing the first stirrings of life in the embers.
Wow... that really is unsettling. Although I can't even begin to imagine what 90 ins of snow looks like. To have only 7 this year is quite a shocking contrast... I'm assuming the 90 ins is the norm? I agree, the earth needs us more than ever, and I hope more people realise that, especially our leaders, before it is too late. I love the imagery of Brigid's serpent uncoiling! Serpents were sometimes associated with women and goddesses in other cultures; I've often wondered about Patrick banishing all serpents from Ireland... some circles of thought consider that to be a reference to the druids, but maybe it was a women's cult, or priestesses, would make more sense. Anyway, I hope the spring comes into you soon with its normal vigour. I'm just longing for a bit of sun. Thanks for sharing your knowledge here! 💕
The average snowfall here is about 50 inches, so winter 2022/2023 was close to setting a record amount, but still, a winter here with seven inches of snow is just...wrong. My recent post explores the Brigid / serpent energy of the awakening earth, if you would like to take a look. Western civilizations/religions have historically demonized both serpents and women, so I see a strong connection there. Bright blessings xo
Fantastic, Carmine, I will hop right over, sounds right up my street! 😊
I tried to find something that would pliantly form a Brigid's Cross, but failed. Didn't search too hard, as I am still busy packing. I loved the paragraph about the Cailleach handing over to Brigid! Lovely way to address the process. P.S. Just resent email to you.
Hi Robin! I guess any kind of reed or rush would work. I cant imagine anything 'woody' would be flexible enough. I see your emails there, thank you! You're still packing? I bet you cant wait for this all to be done with. Am about to feed Carys, will get back to your shortly. 😘
Beautiful exposition of how the Calleach and maiden Brigid tussle at this time of year. And splendid craft idea for Imbolc.
Thanks Bee! Delighted to see you here! Well, my cross is not the beautiful object I would like it to be... you need deft fingers, and they definitely involve skills I don't have, but still, I enjoyed the experience so much, and hopefully will get better every year. How are things with you?
Such a beautiful description of these restless, liminal times, Ali ✨🏹🔥. Also, "I had been looking with unseeing eyes" - so true, so poignant 💛
Thanks, Annette, and that's me consciously trying to be observant! 😂 Sometimes we miss what's right under our noses!
Lisa, you just gave me the shivers with that comment... my best and closest friend once said exactly that to me years ago, which started me thinking, what is my church? I wouldn't be here, writing and doing all the things I've done lately, if she hadn't said that to me. I realised that my church is landscape, always had been since I was a child. And that was what brought me to the Cailleach, initially, the Creator and Protector of the landscape. Everything since then has fallen into place. Thank you for the reminder. I am seeing this friend again soon. You have reminded me to thank her for it. 🥰
Loving your description of turbulence as the season changes hands from an Cailleach to Brigid - I’ve been feeling the promise of warmth amid the harsh switching this time contends - always anticipating the bitter criss cross that happens up until and beyond mid March this time offers a glimmer and it’s easy to understand the Brigid of the blacksmith right now
Oh that is so true, thank you for bringing that image to mind! Brigid as the blacksmith, forging the tools of peace and war, of life and death... more transitions and uncomfortable juxtapositions right here! And all part of our messy coexistence on this earth. Words of power, hands wielding power, fired by the lightning bolt of Imbas! ⚡️🔥💚
Unfortunately, living in Canada, these early signs of spring are still under snow. Your writing allows me to know that new life is waiting under the white.
Im sure the pristine beauty of a snowy landscape wears thin after a while. While our winters are nothing like yours, there have been many past Imbolcs when it has been snowing, so cruel for all the little lambs out in the fields. So far this year, I've not seen any lambs yet, although this is mostly cattle country. I can imagine the anxiety of our ancestors waiting for the warmth of spring so they could plant their crops. Some farmers here cover their fields with plastic to mimic a greenhouse effect and force seeds to germinate. That layer of snow won't last, beneath it nature is already doing its work. We have to trust. Sometimes that's not easy though.
Our winters in my part of New Brunswick, Canada, consist mostly of snow, followed by rain and cold. We don't get enough snow to go snowshoeing and it's tricky to walk on paths and sidewalks covered in ice:(
I am grateful that there is a marked change in seasons. Renewal and death are inevitable. It's a good reminder.
I'm delighted to discover the ritual of Imbolc. I will have to find a way to celebrate it next year, knowing that what it outside the window covers the promise of growth.
I am a typical Tuarean... I like to feel steady on my feet and well grounded... a layer of ice between my feet and the ground would send me into a panic! 😂 I would definitely be a snowsoes rather than ice-skates or skis kind of person! You have reminded me of why I started the Cailleach project, that winter, or the threat of it, or it's slow emergence from it overwhelmed me for the most of the year. Recognising all the Celtic festivals, even in a small way, changed that dramatically for me. Maybe it could help you. I'll get the link and post it here for you...
I panic with ice too. I'm a water sign. I guess it doesn't apply to the solid state of water...
Thank you.
I have Irish ancestry. I love learning about these practices.
https://aliisaac.substack.com/p/surrendering-to-winter
Here you go. I'm not a follower of any religious practice, but consider myself spiritual without religion. So my practices may not align with accepted norms of mainstream or religious practises. I try to be observant and to be a responsible human on this planet. My practice is what feels authentic to me. I think that makes it genuine and meaningful. Hopefully, it resonates with others too. I think its all about coming into our own power and being a force for good in the world, rather than moulding ourselves to fit into a particular doctrine. Having said that, I recognise so much truth in the 'old ways'.💕
Nature is my religion and church.
Thank you for sending this.
What a lovely post. The seasonal transition (although most welcome) doesn't quite feel like it's found it's rythm yet. For me, I still feel a little out of sorts. I suppose that's a lesson we learn in these between times - go with the flow, and trust that Nature will do her thing all in good time.
Hi Sarah, I agree. It's mixed messages, but there's no fake news from nature! As you say, its a lesson to let go of fixed perceptions and step into that liminal space that begins with trust. It's hard to do. And that is where my thoughts were yesterday, although I'm still working through it. We tend to want to hurry through the transitions because they are troublesome and unknowns. But really, they are a time of learning. Thank you, your comment is enlightening... 💕
Thank you 💚
Hi Deirdre, thank you and blessings of the season to you! 💕
To you too. I love your writing. 💚
Oooh... thank you so much! Gra mór to you, that's a lovely thing to say😍!
Such beautiful imagery from your day. Thank you!
Thank you for reading, and being here, Isola... blessings of Imbolc to you! 💕
And to you as well, Ali!
Thank you 😊