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Once more the wheel of the seasons turns as we in the Northern Hemisphere approach the halfway point between the Summer Solstice (Litha) and the Autumnal Equinox (Mabon).
This is the time of the first harvest of precious grains and fruit in the Celtic worlds. Between July 31 and Aug. 2 is known as “Lughnassa/Lughnasdh” or “Lammas” (loaf-mass). It is the first of three harvest festivals celebrated by many cultures. Traditionally bread is made from the first harvested grains and the first fruits collected are blessed and shared.
Summer games and competitions are held as the feast is being prepared. In ancient times Lughnassa represented the marriage of the Celtic God of Light, Lugh and the Earth Mother, or the Goddess of Sovereignty.
Even though we are at the height of the summer months. thoughts must now begin to turn to the coming winter. Here in the Sierra, begin to notice the colors changing to golds and reds.
The days have been getting shorter since the Solstice in June and now the shift to autumn will begin to be subtly felt.
This is a time for joyous celebration of the lives we live, a time to know and share in the blessings of family and community, to give thanks for each precious moment that allows our love to shine forth. As we look back on the pattern of our lives, ask what have we grown that is now time to harvest? What changes have come into our lives that we can celebrate? How can we share our bounty lovingly with others?
Each of us must look into our own hearts to see how we may honor the light and the land that allows us to live with such beauty and abundance. Enjoy these last glorious days of summer and be well!
—Sharon Freewoman, High Priestess and Reiki Master, is the owner of The Rainbow Bridge at the Village in Squaw Valley.
This is the time of the first harvest of precious grains and fruit in the Celtic worlds. Between July 31 and Aug. 2 is known as “Lughnassa/Lughnasdh” or “Lammas” (loaf-mass). It is the first of three harvest festivals celebrated by many cultures. Traditionally bread is made from the first harvested grains and the first fruits collected are blessed and shared.
Summer games and competitions are held as the feast is being prepared. In ancient times Lughnassa represented the marriage of the Celtic God of Light, Lugh and the Earth Mother, or the Goddess of Sovereignty.
Even though we are at the height of the summer months. thoughts must now begin to turn to the coming winter. Here in the Sierra, begin to notice the colors changing to golds and reds.
The days have been getting shorter since the Solstice in June and now the shift to autumn will begin to be subtly felt.
This is a time for joyous celebration of the lives we live, a time to know and share in the blessings of family and community, to give thanks for each precious moment that allows our love to shine forth. As we look back on the pattern of our lives, ask what have we grown that is now time to harvest? What changes have come into our lives that we can celebrate? How can we share our bounty lovingly with others?
Each of us must look into our own hearts to see how we may honor the light and the land that allows us to live with such beauty and abundance. Enjoy these last glorious days of summer and be well!
—Sharon Freewoman, High Priestess and Reiki Master, is the owner of The Rainbow Bridge at the Village in Squaw Valley.
