We have entered that zone of winter where we
know we are at the halfway point between that crisp cold dark of winter, and
the whisper of spring.
February 2 is known as a cross quarter day;
you know how there are 4 solstice/equinox's? Well cross quarter days fall
between each equinox/solstice. It's no coincidence that cross quarter holidays
fall in Fixed signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio and Aquarius) these holidays remind
us to stay steady and firm while being smack dab in the middle of a tough time,
a tightrope.
Imbolc, or Candlemas, or St. Brigid’s Day,
falls on Feb 2, the first cross quarter holiday of the year. Imbolc is the Pagan
name for this holiday, While Candlemas is the Christian one; both holidays are
preceded over by either the Goddess Brigid or Saint Brigid, depending on your
faith. She is the Goddess of Fire; of bravery, inspiration and Craftsmanship; at
her Monestary in Kildare, Saint Brigid is responsible for the magic of the
eternal flame; purification and strength are her calling cards, much in the way
of the Goddess Brigid. Both of these holidays are nearly identical in their
ways of being worshiped, and the purpose for it.
This holiday is focused in honoring the home
and birth; the translation for Imbolc is “in the belly”. This holiday is a precursor to the ewes
nursing their baby lambs.
During this time any animal that creates milk
is honored. Because this is a holiday that honors birth and new life, it’s a grand
time for honoring fertility and the purification that comes with fire.
Light and heat that comes from burning fires
and candles are also a way for this holiday to be observed; it harkens the
magic of the spring, and the heat that comes with it.
Some might find it odd that a holiday meant
for the comfort of home falls in detached Aquarius, but this fixed sign sees
forward, and is intrepid in the way it clears the path for the future by
shrugging off the past. This sign is a steady flame; unwavering. Aquarius is
much like the eternal flame; an endless sign of faith and the continuance of
life.
Light a candle and watch it
burn through the night. Eat a piece of cheese and smile.
Honor this time with laughter
and pick out now what you would like to plant for the spring... Be choosy and
most of all be playful.
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