Imbolc

The midway point between winter solstice and the spring equinox - Imbolc - derived from old Gaelic meaning "in the belly" referring to ewe's milk and the first lambs of spring. Originally a pagan festival when people celebrated the stirring of life rising from the ground or out of Mother Earth's belly.

The goddess and the sun god returning for their first flirtations bringing life to the Earth. A time for spring cleaning and celebrating with bonfires the first glimmerings of spring. Also a time for renewal in clearing out the old, letting go of old grievances too. A time to look forward to new beginnings.

Well the snow still blankets the Earth in this part of Michigan but the sun is shining with the promise of light after the dark of winter. My backyard is full of birds around the feeder and the brush pile is alive with them! 

Though originating with the early Celts, Imbolc has been celebrated in one form or another by other cultures and religions around the world. How are you planning to celebrate Imbolc?

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