A Ritual for Imbolc and a Story of Hope
It was February 1st, 2018 – a night etched in memory as cold, dark, and damp. The kind of evening that beckoned us to stay home, wrapped in warmth. But destiny had a different plan for my friend and me – we had committed to a witch class, so off we went.
As we navigated the labyrinth of dimly lit backstreets, we stumbled upon a hidden parking spot seemingly awaiting our arrival. Once on foot, we turned the corner, and our eyes fell upon the only beacon of light in the vicinity – a mystical crystal shop adorned with the essence of magic: sage, tarot cards, and an array of captivating crystals.
The doorbell chimed, its sound echoing through the quiet space as we stepped into what seemed like an open yet deserted haven. The store's enchanting energy drew us toward the back, where a tiny studio awaited, furnished with bolsters to make our mystical journey more comfortable. Gradually, a few more souls joined our intimate gathering, and the witch class commenced.
That particular evening, the air was thick with the magic of Imbolc – the delicate balance between winter solstice and spring equinox. In the midst of this unseen and deeply sensed holiday, we began leaning into what this time of year was guiding us toward (Hint: a SLOW awakening).
Jennifer Fox was our guide, a woman with a Catholic upbringing, a love for rituals, and an affinity for nature that led her to embrace the term "witch" long before it became fashionable.
On this night, Jennifer was also a woman who had weathered the storm of life's uncertainties. A year had passed since her husband's life-altering stroke – a man once defined by his roles as an active father, ER physician, Crossfitter, and surfer.
This week on Threshold Moments, we invite you to join us on a captivating voyage, a glimpse into a world where the mystical and the mundane converge.
Jennifer shares with us the significance of Imbolc, along with a ritual we can all do today. She also bring us on the profound journey she and her husband have undertaken since 2018.
This episode is filled with permission, hope, and love.
Back then, only six years ago, the idea of coming together for seasonal rituals and ceremonies felt peculiar, even otherworldly.
Fast forward to today, and it has become a regular part of my life – a tapestry woven with mindful collaborations, dinners, and song circles. The word "coven" has gained popularity, and I'm finding stability, insight and comfort in what once felt unusual.
Below I offer you the ritual Jennifer taught us. It is a small doable step into ritual. It bring me a sense of ease and hope. Perhaps it will for you too?
Imbolc Ritual
- Grab a piece of paper and write a letter to your future self
- Fill it with love, self trust, hope, and kindness.
- Open it next year on Imbolc.
- What has changed? How do the loving words land now?
May this be a small dose of good medicine🌿.
An added thing to consider. Jennifer suggests that Imbolc can be felt as the first yawn and stretch of the year.
What would it be like to allow yourself to unfurl at the pace of nature, to release the quickness of the resolutions, and soak in any resources you can receive?
-With slow care,
Sarah
Jenny Moloney photography