In the Pines

The seasonal search of Yule/ Solstice have a bit of conflict for many devoted at this intense occasion of Christian beliefs.

We have come down the path of Samhain; the exhilaration and the solemn experience that is claimed and embraced by the Pagan community. I have no catchy phrase of putting a God form back in the season, but what I can do is remember, breath deep the cold air into my lungs and step forward in my path. Much of the holidays practices come from another time that with deep roots to cultural beliefs and the truths of those times. Decorating a tree is usually the first thought in everyone’s mind.

My tree reflects the history of the my life to this point. Ornaments for celebration of my marriage, birth of children, grandchildren and beloved pets. It reflects my heart.

I put candle like lights in my windows for the homecoming of those who are now gone from my life.

I burn my bayberry candles and a Yule log for luck, prosperity and light in the new season. I make and give gifts that come from the depths of my soul.

When the wind blows through the pines in the evening, I go outside and listen to the screeching of the trees. My homestead is surrounded by pines. The tall thin White Pines that cover my ridge move with the wind in an ancient dance of winter. Sometimes I get the distinct impression that Cailleach is swinging from branches and tree tops. I see her long grey hair blowing wildly in the bitter wind and if I did not know better, I would say she was bare, much like the Maple,Oak and Apple. 

My pines protect me and my way of life. They give shelter to the small creatures that I welcome to my acreage.

They ground me, listen to me, bring me the vibration of the Mother and all her wild Spirits that visit my Ridge in this season and the next.

As I strew the outside of my home with branches and bough of the eternal green, I know that I am working the ways and bringing protection of the pine spirit into my life and that of my loves. I ask it to hold us close as we trudge the path of Yule and winter beyond.

Was this the actions of my Ancestors as they celebrated and embraced the season of dark? I only know what my soul depth tells me and I listen to my truths.