This was the time sheep started to get ready for their offspring signifying growth and birth. The early signs of the earth beginning to warm with the snowdrops bravely showing their lovely, little heads - sometimes above the snow.
It is a time for celebration - a returning of even more light, the fruits and blossoms of what have been sown coming forth. A time to sow too that which we would like to nuture and grow.
The Rowan tree is closely associated with St. Brigit too. It is widely believed before she was a saint she was a special healer, a protector of women and children, spinner and weavers, an inspiration to poets and patron of blacksmiths and metal workers.
The colour red and fire are both associated with the Rowan tree and St. Brigit.
Spindles and spinning wheels were often made from Rowan wood. The spinning wheels symbolise the passage of another year in the Celtic calendar around the sun.
We look forward in Ireland to celebrating her day as well as Imbolc on February 1st. The first day of spring in the Celtic calendar.
May we emerge from this time renewed and hopeful as we call back the warmth of the sun to the earth.
May all be well,
Brenda
