Ritual 18: Monday, April 30, 2007

Waxing Moon

It's Beltaine eve! This night opens the door to the Celtic holiday on May 1, marking Spring's transition to Summer. The simplest way to celebrate this Moonday is to fill your home with flowers. Be sure to put extra in the bedroom, because that's where the Beltaine action is at!

Beltaine is the time of fertility and passion, when European tribal people coupled just for the night or partnered for a "trial period" of a year and a day. You may have heard of the Maypole. Now just imagine what this erect pole symbolizes and you're on your way to recognizing the ritual of this day. If ever you needed a reason to make love, Beltaine is it. With your date, your mate, or your self, celebrate your sexuality and sensuality surrounded by flowers. Make up your own Maypole dance — you don't need any further details from me!

However, if you'd like some ritual preparation before you settle into your bed of flowers, try this variation on an old farmers' rite. On Beltaine, villagers would drive their cattle between two bonfires to purge them of fleas and ticks. To purify yourself of any metaphorical beasties, put two candles on the floor a few feet apart and walk between them. Say a little prayer that the fire cleanse your spirit and ignite your passion.

A parting note: Be sure to take appropriate precautions against symbolic fertility becoming actual fertility. Enjoy!

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