Lammas Blessings

Time has gotten away from me since I retired.  My days have become so busy, I don't even know what day it is anymore.  The first harvest has arrived signaling, for me, the actual beginning of the dark time of the year.  It's nice to know that I can really enjoy the dark time this year, that I can cozy up in my flannel gown and sit in my rocker by the window....while sipping hot chocolate with marshmallows.  Oh, what joy!

Today when I leave the center I have to be sure to stop at the fruit stand to buy some traditional Lammas foods for tonight--a delicious homemade whole grain bread, strawberries, some nice vine-ripened tomatoes for my salad.  Later, my harvest goddess will be brought out from her summer slumber to participate in a short ritual.  It's nice to not have to work this day, to actually be able to celebrate as I see fit.  Retirement is a blessing.

I found the following picture of our ancestor's first harvest and felt it appropriate for today.

As a part of nature's wondrous cycle

Of new birth, growth, fruitfulness and death

We rejoice in the creation of new life,

For parenthood, the passing on of knowledge,

For understanding and the wisdom of years.

We are grateful for those who have gone before

Passing on to us our spiritual heritage.

May our lives blossom as the apple tree in Spring

May we become fruitful in thought and deed

And may the seed of love that falls to the ground

Linger beyond our time on this earth.

John Birch 'Faith and Worship - Prayers and Resources'

A blessed Lammas to you all!