New Worlds of Body, Mind & Spirit Since 1901
| Color of the day: Rose
Incense of the day: Ginger The Earth, its seasons, the lengthening and shortening of days, the swift phases of the Moon, the dense forests-we take all these things for granted, but it wasn't always this way. The Earth and its magic were once regarded with wonder, and treated as our mother. When the Earth is happy, you can almost feel her gentle chuckle below your feet. When we deface or scar her, we diminish all life. So help protect the Earth today by starting with one tree. Seek out a quiet spot with a huge old tree-one that seems to embody the wisdom of many centuries. Since it's Earth Day, no will think it strange that you, or your coven or friends, are cavorting around a tree. Take with you some small animal food, a sharp knife, and a bucket half full of water. Stand before the large tree, or, if you're with a group, stand in a circle. Chant: "Blessed be, old friend tree." At some point in the dance, leave the food for the tree's creatures. Scatter it liberally around the entire base of the tree, then place your palms on the tree, close your eyes, and try to communicate with her. Some trees have had traumatic experiences with people, so be gentle. Ask for permission to cut a small limb so you can plant another tree, an offspring. You may even offer her a gift of coins, food, or a colorful ribbon. If she says no, find another tree. If she says yes, sever only one limb with a careful and clean cut. Thank her, leave her a gift, then place the base of the branch into the bucket of water so it won't dry out. |
