Ritual 52: Monday, December 24, 2007

Full Moon

When the moon is full, remind yourself of the fullness of your life. For those who celebrate Christmas, this full moon eve is especially meaningful. Those who do not are still likely to have tomorrow off from work — that's a great reason to celebrate!

Gather with your beloveds on this night, after the moon has lifted Herself to shine bright on your festivities. Ensure your home is warm and cheery. Decorate your space if that feels right. Simmer some hot apple cider. Dress yourself in luminous white or silver, an homage to your glowing femininity.

Set out threaded needles, small pieces of paper, and pens. You can make a simple altar for the night's magical tools by placing them near some flowers. Create a little tent-fold sign that says: "Goodies for Making Gratitude Garlands."

As conversations wax and wane, thoroughly enjoy the company of your companions. Let yourself and your loved ones reflect on the past year. What has gone really well? What are you grateful for? What small (or large) wonders did you encounter this year? Write these things down — one per small piece of paper. Crumple the pieces of paper a bit and thread them onto your needle to create a gratitude garland. You can do this throughout the night, casually, or in one focused sitting. (I prefer casual. You'll find me making short garlands that I then put on my friends' heads as playful crowns.)

You can speak what you have written or keep it private. Every group is different. The beauty of this ritual is that you can share it without needing to be pedantic or overly structured. Who needs a hostess saying, "No, THIS is how you do it!" when you're trying to enjoy a relaxed evening. The keywords here are powerful and relaxed!

Some guests may want to wear their garlands home. That's fine. But for you, dear one who has practiced so many nights to connect with the feminine mysteries... burn yours. This is the sacrifice. The root of sacrifice is sacred. Sacrifice is the art of making sacred. Burn your gratitude garland this full moon with a prayer:

Goddess, I give this gratefully
For all the good you gave to me
This year and next, I am blessed.

Burning things releases their energy. The manifesting energy of the full moon causes this energy to be return three times over. Look forward to an even more miraculous and magical future.

After the ritual, share your experience in our community section.