Lughnasadh

Today is Lughnasadh (pronounced "Lu-na-sa")... the first harvest. It's the point in the year where focus turns from planting and growing to the harvest. Typically a celebration of the grain harvest, for Primal Pagans like me (not that there are so many of us) it's a celebration of the fruits (and vegetables) of summer. It seems like everything is finally coming into season after all the planting, and waiting. Let's be honest though. My garden is pathetic. I'll be waiting for a while for any sort of harvest.

Lughnasad is also sometimes called Lammas, a name taken from the British Aisles. It's a Celtic celebration, which doesn't exactly pair up with my Roman ways, but I celebrate none the less. That is, after all, the Roman way- to adopt the traditions and celebrations of other cultures, to better assimlate them into yours. That's why, as a Roman Pagan, I have no problem participating in any and all celebrations. It is a reason to party, and we Romans like to party.

Lughnasadh not only celebrates the first harvest but it's a time of community gatherings, family reunions, horse racing and all sorts of festivities. It was also a time of weddings- known in Pagan circles as Handfastings.

Modern Pagans often celebrate Lughnasadh with bonfires and dancing. While the weather is still sunny and warm, the mood of the season begins to change. We're entering harvest time, which also becomes a time of personal reflection, introspection and harvest- something I've been going through a lot lately. Taking stock of our actions and deeds, events, things we've experienced, as well as our gains and losses. I once heard it said, "Each experience opens a window into ourselves, into who we were, who we are, and whom we are choosing to become."

Today I'm simply taking stock of my life, as I've been doing the last few days, and reflecting on this year as it's coming to pass. Looking at my small garden, struggling to survive, let alone produce, I see a reflection of myself. Big dreams and lots of potential, but not a lot of fruit. I guess I, like my garden, just need a little more patience and nurturing to grow big and strong. Not exactly the easiest thing for me to do, but I'm learning.

I'm choosing to celebrate this Lughnasadh quietly tonight. No big fires, but maybe a few small candles. The big events will be taking place this coming weekend, also known as "Boarfest." It's a small gathering of fellow Pagans and Primals. We'll be partaking in a large boar, and many fruits and vegetables that are of the season. Food, fire, music, and friends... everything that is Lughnasadh.

Here's to the season. Many blessings to you, and a bountiful harvest!