Ritual 36: Monday, September 3, 2007

Waning Moon

Labor day is a federal holiday in the U.S. This means that most of us didn't work today. I've often found it ironic that the day honoring working people was the day we don't work. I suppose that gives us time to reflect on the importance of labor. However, I think every day that we work should be honored as important, a celebration of work.

For many of us, every Monday marks the day we return to the working world after a weekend of rest. As described in the Moonday Magic introduction, in some Slavic languages the word for Monday translates into "the day after not working." Where does the stigma around work come from? It seems that the cultural equation is work=bad, leisure=good. Is this because many of us check our values at the door when we step into the office?

Take this Labor Day to reflect on your work... with a bottle of children's blow bubbles handy.

Why did you choose the work you did? What were the cultural, social, economic factors that contributed (dare I say pushed) you into your current career? What does your work contribute to your life and to society? What do you like about your work? What do you dislike? What would your experience of work be like if you held it as an expression of your divinity, as a magical act?

Chew on the questions. You can write your thoughts in your journal or you can just hang out with them.

Pull out your bottle of bubbles. Is the opposite of work rest? Or is it play? Use the bubbles to playfully envision releasing any heaviness you have about work.

The moon's waning cycle -- and your bubbles -- will send your worries, concerns and fears soaring. What would you like to let go of as it relates to your work? Blow that thought through the bubble wand -- your magic wand. See the thought get captured in these little translucent containers. Watch as the air lifts them away. And then -- pop! -- the bubble releases the energy of your thought. Gone. Bye bye. "I bless you and release you."

This magic is fun. This magic is done.