A Personal Reflection on Imbolc

This Sabbat honoring the return of the waxing sun occurs on February 2nd. Other names for this festival are Candlemas and Brigid's Day and non-pagans know this as Groundhog Day. The original idea for the groundhog day tradition came from the belief that if it was fair on Imbolc, winter would continue, if it was foul, winter was over. This festival marks the quickening of the year, the time of the first stirrings of Spring. It is a fire festival and candles are traditionally lit to lure back the sun. 

For me, the focus of Imbolc is on the concept of "quickening."  Having birthed three children I am intimately aware of the very moment that I truly became conscious of life forming in my womb. It was that magical moment that I first felt a slight stirring of movement within. Before that time, the idea that a child grew in me was a concept, believed and still a bit remote. But when I felt that small "twitch" I knew and was flooded with emotion I cannot really share verbally.

That same "quickening" occurs in our Mother Earth. The slight twitching - creaking - warming - expanding while deep within, new life begins to feel Her warmth and come alive - not yet seen, but deep in Her belly - waiting.

I wish to lie on Her blessed ground, my heart feeling Her heart -  my ear pressed to Her surface, listening for a small sound of stirring life.  Her belly quickens.

Painting by Wendy Knox Morton

     Love & Blessings
     Bendis, Co-Founder