imbolc

Blessing to all those to whom this day means more than the harassment of local groundhogs. In the old ways, this was one of the eight major sabbaths of the year. The name Imbolc refers to the milk now being in the belly of the domesticated animals, thus portending the arrival of the year's new births. Likewise, while Spring is yet some distance away, it is but one turn of the wheel now. And the turning begins.

It was a more social observance of Imbolc this year, with a weekend filled with dancing and visits. Even the extended outdoor time I try to take on each sabbath for spiritual communion was shared. I am grateful it allowed for rich conversation and also quiet time.

Today as most Mondays I have returned to the grind, watched intended self-care disciplines slip, felt the disorienting results of eating foods which I am currently allergic to, and the mild depression that occurs when enthusiasm slips back into just getting through.

Yet, despite appearances, all is not entropy. Life inherently provides a countervailing thrust in its tendency toward continuing to evolve, organizing itself in ever higher states of complexity. And this Imbolc time is the beginning of the return of the yang/light, by which we can see our dreams again. In the Yellow Emperor's Classic medicinal text, Spring is the time to "give birth again to our dreams." And in the Asian calendar, Spring begins with the Asian new year, celebrated generally right around Imbolc. Hence it is no surprise the two observances tune into a similar current of energy rising below the surface of appearances.

Therefore, I will not forget the recent inspirations of this weekend. The Cuban music I heard the other night, with mandolin included, was so integrative that it rekindled the dream of creating a multi-genred dance-band, featuring Cuban, Cajun, and World groove music. The prayer I found myself in also that evening, after suffering a self-inflicted injury, led me to a profoundly vivid dream and healing. This in turn reconnected me to a powerful meditative practice serving both well-being and effectiveness in the world, which I now begin again.

Along with a business opportunity arising, tantra reflections, and a proposed monthly gathering, it has been an abundant Imbolc observance this year. Wishing all of you abundant inspiration as well in this time of quiet, gently-rising energies!