Return of the Light: Imbolc, Candlemas, Brigid, and the Groundhog

I've been going from window to window this morning, taking down the window candles that have been keeping vigil since the first weekend of Advent. I will remove the wreath from the door, but the outdoor lights are frozen in place for the time being. At any rate, I will do what I can. It's interesting to me that so many cultural traditions all converge on this one day. 

Imbolc, celebrated on February 1-2, marks the point between the solstices, and has its roots in the breeding cycle of sheep. In more recent times, historically, it marks the returning of more sunlight. Candlemas, also the Feast of the Presentation of Jesus and, additionally, the Feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, is celebrated by Christians throughout the world today. Yesterday was the Feast of St. Brigid, matron saint of Ireland as well. It's a busy week, eh?

Then, there's the Groundhog. Punxatawny Phil will be our rodent prognosticator, a more secular way of honoring the return of longer hours of sunlight. We'll see what he says, but mostly, his predictions are not for us in the north country.

Likely, the rodent will see his shadow, so that means six more months of winter. Yah, right. We will have winter-like weather for a while yet. We have a "snow event" in the forecast, and subzero temps to expect by Saturday. 

Keep warm,

C