Out in the Garden on Llamas

On this turning wheel of the year, it is Lughnasadh or Llamas.  The exact mid point between Summer and Fall.  Did you know that?  It is the time of year we begin the harvest, the light begins to wane a little, we are invited to pause and reflect -

As we have tended our gardens, what have you tended within yourself?  What is ready to be gathered, noticed and released?

In my woodland gardens I notice the goldenrod and scotch broom stand tall with golden flowers.  The St. John's Wort and red clover are beginning to wane.  The Black Cohosh has bloomed it's long stalks, the berries on the ginseng have been safely tucked into the Earth.

Here on the Sanctuary today I will create and perform a small ritual in honor of myself, what I am harvesting in my life as I approach 70.  What I plan to let go of, what I plan to begin for this next cycle.

• Here is a suggestion for you - 
• Gather some rosemary, a plant of honoring and remembrance
• Find yourself a small candle (a tea light will do!)
• Place some spring water in a beautiful bowl - a clear glass bowl if you have it.  Don't worry if you don't.
• A pen and paper on which you can write that which you have "harvested from your soul, that which you are letting go of."

In a quiet space set up this tiny ritual.  The bowl of water, the rosemary lying in the water empowering or "charging"  it.  Light your candle.  Lift the rosemary to your heart and say something like this -

• "Rosemary for remembrance for the parts of me that I have lost and let go of - I bless them.
• For the parts of me that have endured - I thank them.
• For the wisdom that still grows within me - I receive them"

Now take your piece of paper and light it in the flame of your candle.  Careful not to burn yourself, let the paper burn out.  Watch it and know that all that you have said, asked for, let go of, is possible.  Scatter your ashes to the breeze or onto the dirt you have near you.

This is a tiny, powerful way to honor yourself, the Earth and the possibilities that exist, even when life feels difficutl and challenging.

I honor you!!!  Thanks for taking the time to read.  Blessings in this Summer Season =

Cynthia @ MedicineWoods