Dear Friends,
A year ago, on August 1st, I shared the story behind the ancient Celtic festival of Lammas or Lúnasa, telling the story of Lugh, the ancient Irish sun god who had been raised by his foster mother Tailtiu. the goddess of the earth and of grain.
Tailtiu deeply loved Lugh, his people and the earth.
She recognised that the people were living unsustainably. Tailtiu’s mother-heart wished for her foster son and his people to thrive. It pained her to see them simply survive when she knew there was the possibility of so much more.
As she demonstrated how to clear and till the soil, how to plant and cultivate grain crops Tailtiu taught the principles of agriculture and right relationship with the earth.
One year on, I have just celebrated Lammas here at La Flor de Agua, the organic rose farm that has received me as a volunteer this summer. Gérman and Mario, the owners, share their vast knowledge of edible and therapeutic plants and agricultural practices and work alongside volunteers (all younger than me!) to create their dream of sustainable, self-sufficient living.
We celebrated the intimate relationship that we have with the earth, expressing gratitude for the first fruits of this year’s harvest.
Gathering barefoot on the sacred hill and overlooking the main field of roses, we retold the story of Lugh and Tailtiu, remembering the importance of living sustainably as we enjoyed pumpkin fritters, acorn bread, fresh salads and blackberry deserts.
I had expected to share more of my experiences on the farm as they arose, but until now, the time here has called for introspection and assimilation. Much like the developing crops, this season’s thoughts are still ripening, with the hope of a rich harvest to come.
As I write, the darkest night of the moon cycle approaches – the new moon, now at 12⁰ of Leo, will be visible again in a few nights.
Following on from my last email, let’s explore the Sabian Symbol for this new moon.
The Sabian Symbol for 12⁰ of Leo (according to Heather Ensworth) is
“How, with soulful reflection and in-depth assimilation of our experiences, we speak with the voice of our soul selves.”
Ah! Soulful reflection – how beautiful that sounds to this introverted heart!
Do you feel the resonance?
Or does the idea of the Sabian Symbols jar with you?
Much as I love to reflect, the time to speak from our hearts, to speak with our true, authentic voice also comes.
Speaking from my soul-self, I would love to support your reflections and assimilation through two upcoming offerings.
The first, starting September 12th is a 4-session course for all who would like to develop their skills in holding safe & free space for others.
Cultivating Deeper Trust & Safety is advertised as continuing coach education for those who already hold a coaching accreditation – but it is open and accessible for all who wish to provide a safe and free relational environment for friends, family, colleagues, or clients.
The second offering, Befriending Our Dragons: Transmuting Fear into Love starts October 5th.
Join me for this 5-month program navigating the mysteries of our deepest fears, the detrimental ways in which these can be expressed and how they might be transmuted into love.
And remember, the New Moon is the perfect time to set a new intention – what does your heart long to see materialise in your life?
I’m looking forward to being with you soon,
Be happy, be safe, be well,
Annie