The Woods and Trees of Imbolc, St Brigids Day, February 1st. Trees, Nature Connection and Life Lessons.
It was cold. The wind swept across the bare fields whisking away the last of the loose leaves. Bella and I, in our coats, well wrapped, bent our heads to the winters’ breath and marched determinedly on. The cold is not good for my legs but there I went, three layered to keep out the cold. Would I pay for this tomorrow I wondered? With days spent stuck at home, this time of year, more than any other, is a daily challenge. Not all disabilities are visible. Today was a good day of slow but steady progress, step by step up the hill. Pain teaches patience and endurance. What daily hills do you have to climb?
A traditional Gaelic festival, Imbolc or Imbolg, is also called Saint Brigid's Day. It is held on 1 February, which is about halfway between the winter solstice and the spring equinox
Thriving Not Surviving
There, spearing dead leaves, are the green shoots of the bulbs. The bluebells are just starting to wake up, the crocus have put forth their distinctive leaves with a white stripe down the centre, but the milk white, moon white snowdrops are in full flower. Their delicate heads dance in sunshine and storm, lashing rain and pounding hail. So fragile yet they don’t just survive they thrive. These tiny flowers bloom at the feet of the trees when nothing else can.
Miracle
A small miracle when the wider world seems razed to the ground. Their tiny tingling voices singing of new growth and hope and light under the trees. They are the messengers of their tall companions. Their bulbs have already been whispering secrets of the new days to the roots of the trees. The light is coming, the light, the light.
Step By Step As The Sap Rises
While snowdrops flower, slowly the sap begins to rise. The juices of the plants start to rise and strive to live, and life once more, begins anew. The trees are starting to slowly stir from their slumber. The hazel catkins spread their gold dust among the trees, chestnut buds grow fat and sticky, and soon, very soon, the first unfurling leaves of Elder will start to appear. But for now, I see the bark of Birch and Rowan shining in the light, silver and gold, while the snowdrops dance.
Step by step, we journey, taking each day as it comes.
Next time weaving ancient sacred wisdom and modern ecology together for another in the series. Meeting the Goddess Brigid
Blessings
Amanda Claire x
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My articles take time and energy to research and write. I ‘pass the hat around’ and invite you to 'put a penny in the hat' :-).
I live with a disability and I'm passionate about enabling people to 'Live With Art And Soul.'
I'm the founder of Ancient and Sacred Trees, an MA Archaeology student, artist, teacher, storyteller, healer and land guide. I love trees, history and the healing power of Mother Nature and sacred connection.
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