We are at a threshold of gratitude and letting go.
I am bringing Mabon/Autumn Equinox greetings from the breathtaking Kootney Mountains in Trout River, British Columbia. Intentionally and strategically placed, I am on retreat with five like hearted souls as we say goodbye to summer and welcome in the next turn of the Wheel of the Year.
The mornings greet us with mist and cool air, which my entire being is craving right now. As I type this I am seeking solace from the solar power as the Sun, although amazing in itself, is beating down close to 25 degrees outside. The turn of the season is subtle in this part of the country. Random leaves have started their epic colour display to bright golds and oranges with a peppering of red throughout the green forests of mountain pines, birches and cedars.
Squirrels are spending their days eating and storing, bears (although I have yet to encounter one) are bulking up for their deep sleep. Perhaps this time of year is mixed for you. Some of us cling to summer and the Sun, where others excitedly welcome the crisp, cool mornings and the longer nights. I am one of the latter. Every season has it's place, and now, I am longing for cosy. Walking through pumpkin fields, sipping apple cider, baking and pulling out the crockpot to create warm stews and soups.
Mabon is the second of the three harvest festivals. This is the time where our cornucopia flows over with abundance that Mother Earth has blessed us with, from farm and field to table. September 22nd brings the Autumn Equinox at around 8 pm EDT, with the day being equal in the light of dark. The Sun also enters the sign of Libra which brings the qualities of balance and harmony. It is a time where we integrate the yin and yang, the feminine and masculine. It is also said during this time the veil is thin between the ethereal and material worlds.
We are at a threshold of gratitude and letting go …. our own personal harvest and reflection as it were.
Thinking back since the spring, contemplate the following:
What did you plant or intend that is now ready to be harvested?
Where, who or what in your life are you ready to let go?
What is calling to you now so you can begin your journey within?
The invitation during this seasonal shift is to be able to surrender to the change, just like the leaves that will soon begin their fall back to the sacred soil. For they know it is time to let go, they don't fight it. Let us learn from the wisdom of the trees, they know when it is time to rest, to sprout, to bloom, to be in fullness and then to release, starting the cycle all over again.
Honour this day by spending time outside, taking in the beauty of change. Collect seasonal items like fallen leaves, acorns etc, for a Mabon alter. Decorate and adorn yourself with the colours of gold, orange, deep green and plum. Have a fire or light a candle on Mabon Eve, set your intentions for the season to come while being grateful for what has come before.
May this day bless you in peace and love xox
