Lammas

I have been quieter in my writing this year than I had planned. In fact, the only thing that has really gone the way I expected to this year is the natural world. Winter, fall, spring, and summer have all shown up - a rhythm that has been moving along since the ancient wheel of the year was created. 

Humans have turned towards the natural world as a time keeper for each generation that comes and goes. The trees in my neighborhood have witnessed countless families grow through life cycles. And while weather has shifted as humans continue to engage the planet - the weather is a variation on the theme of each season - spring, summer, fall, winter have shown up in their extremes and more common states. But they always show up.

So when we find ourselves in a year, a day, a life filled with the unexpected, it is a reminder that the world beyond our walls (and screens) is beckoning to us. Sacred reminders to turn towards the most consistent being in our life - earth. 

And earth right now in the northern hemisphere is the time of year celebrating the summer harvest. Here in Ohio, sweet corn has arrived and my squash plant has begun to fruit, a volunteer that found its way in our garden. I am cheering for that plant, unplanned but welcome, a reminder that unexpected change can delight instead of incite bracing. 

Another unexpected harvest this week has been the arrival of a podcast that was recorded in March around the spring equinox. It was a joy to speak with Natalie on IFS, spirituality, and how we all need external resources in addition to internal supports. You can check out our conversation HERE. 

As we meet this moment of Lammas 2024, my invitation is with curiosity explore what unexpected delights have shown in your garden. The invitation is not to deny the unwelcome and difficult, but to add to that conversation, just for a brief second. And as with any invitation you can turn it down - it’s ok to not want to look at the delight right now. It’s ok to sit with the challenge as long as you need. This invitation to tenderly, briefly touch into delight does not have an expiration date. It will be here for you, when you are most ready for it. 

May your year turn gently towards the coming equinox. And may we all find some steadiness within the consistent changing of the world around us.

Sincerely, 

Valerie