The 1/2 of February is a wonderful turning point in many ways and for many different religions. The madness of Christmas has gone and most people feel relieved to get through what seems like an endless January too.
Imbolc is an ancient Celtic festival which celebrates the first new signs of life. It roughly translates as ewe's milk, when the lactating sheep start to feed their new born lambs. This time is not far off. I was talking to a local farmer the other day and he could almost set the date of around 14th February for his ewes to start giving birth.
Although the winter is not yet over, new life starts to appear. Tiny snowdrops push through the hard ground despite living through the harsh weather of the last few months, just like these sheep feeding in the snow during last December.
It also celebrates the feast for St Brigit or Bride, the goddess who signified new life, birth, creativity and who also inspired poetry.
Just seeing a tiny snowdrop appear in my garden this afternoon inspired me to get creative and do some writing.
Happy Imbolc everyone! Get creating!
And the nights are definitely drawing out aren't they? Spring is just around the corner!
ReplyDeleteHello Di,
ReplyDeletePleased to see you have several comments on your post. xx