FULL MOON RITUAL September 1997

	Full Moon Afore Mabon Blood Moon Leader : Red Deer Date : 16 September 1997 Return to the Full Moon Ritual 1997 Index

Up the road of aged cobbles, Elenya and Red Deer slowly return - taking the time to greet each life with whom they are privileged to participate within the greenwood. The road's gentle rise soon gives way to a steeper climb as they approach the final ascent toward the old castle. At a place where the road almost imperceptibly forks - the main trunk continues to rise directly towards the hill's crown, where the handiwork of ancient masons is limned against the billowing white clouds of a nearly autumn afternoon, and an infrequently trodden branch leads off to their left - Elenya and Deer pause and note the cloven prints leading away from the main road, under the canopy of leaves just beginning to give indication of their coming autumn colors.

Deer turns back to face the way from which they have come, knowing that those who follow will most probably proceed along the primary trace, but not wanting them to do so. As he contemplates a means of redirecting the other's travel without marring the visual feast about them, the black walnut walking stick he carries nearly leaps from his hand. Before completely realizing the precise nature of his act, Deer turns back toward the Castle and with a quick and forceful thrust neatly plants the staff just off the track between the two paths. Waiting for some magickal transition, he is a bit disappointed after a few moments to note that a simple twisted staff remains poised before him. Momentarily unsure of his original intent to divert others into the wood, he strides several paces forward along the main road before stopping dead. A feeling of sudden disquiet arises within him, as though he were being told not to proceed. *Nephew,* a voice whispers within his head. *Why do you persist in doubting that the greenwood guides you?*

Red Deer swings around to find his uncle, crowned in the mighty majesty of many tines, standing next to Elenya behind him on the path. "I doubt not the wood, Uncle, but myself... Why do I doubt? At this point in my life, I suppose you might as well ask a spider why she spins. Doubt is the code by which I was raised and is one that takes many moons and much work to undo." The old stag, in response, snorts and stamps the ground at the paths' fork thrice with his left fore-hoof before disappearing into the forest from which he had emerged. His going is barely noticed by the two who have suddenly become aware of the quick spread of tiny, almost fern-like fronds over the ground from within the woods toward them. *As I remember,* Deer hears the inner voice again, *such was your gift to this place once upon another moon.* And he replies, to the empty air where the massive stag had stood, "Thank you, Uncle. Again you teach me the power of faith. Perhaps one day I shall learn."

Noticing Elenya grinning at him, Deer blushes momentarily before gifting her with a most undignified tackle - landing them both squarely on the new growth beyond the lesser path's entrance. Above them, from this vantage, they are acutely aware of the boles of nearby trees rising against the brilliant blue sky and of the splay of branches out into the canopy from each; as though the trees themselves uphold the world's roof. After a time, or a few times anyway, Elenya gently returns her husband's attention the sky, now a brilliant vespers rose. "Soon the others shall be awaiting US before the ritual room," he hears, and agrees. 'Tis time they should hi' themselves hence.

The path brings them in a gentle spiral deosil up the hill, leading them beneath the branches of a successive layering of trees. From mighty groves of oak - white, chestnut, scarlet and their kith and kin - where the paths split, through towering stands of white ash and into long-leaf pine barrens lining the hill's broad shoulders, going thrice around before passing through the thorn thickets which line the truly ancient grove of mixed species circled round about the castle, they pass, finally emerging into a somewhat more open area to rejoin the main trace. Elenya and Deer pause again to appreciate the final violets of a breathtaking evening sky just as they fade into the blackish-blue of a night heavily studded with stars. Deer briefly remembers words from an old story (or was it a new one?) as a dying dragon who lay chained in a castle courtyard speaks with a queen and daughter of the Celts: "I can not see... Tell me, do the stars shine tonight?" And she, with tear-filled eyes, answers "Yes, my Lord. They shine most brightly," before his spirit slips silently into the night sky. Deer, in a moment remembering times past and yet to come, likewise whispers to all who have or will be separated from him, "Yes, the stars shine most brightly tonight - they above who are both our forebears and our children. We are stardust... We are golden..." For a moment, he sorely misses his absent niece and nephew, even though he knows them to be there in spirit.

Hurriedly now, for others will be soon behind them, Elenya and Deer mount the final steps up the path, throw open the heavy oak and bronze doors and pass into the great hall of the old castle. Here they re-examine their work done earlier. As Deer reassesses timber piled high in a walk-in fireplace black with the smoke of generations, Elenya reviews the long table - where the beginnings of a feast are prepared, with many extra platters, bowls and pitchers to receive that which their friends bring in offering this moon. Elenya makes a few final adjustments in the alignment of the dishes, as Deer lights the candles and torches scattered about the room and finally the fire itself.

Together, they move towards another pair of heavy doors at the hall's far end. These lead into the northern quarter of the stone ritual room at the old castle's heart, but Elenya and Deer purposefully have not opened them before now. As they swing back the pair to reveal the circular space within, Deer is pleased to note that, in the joints between the thick flagstones, the selaginella which took root several moons ago has spread throughout the room. By the altar, Cloud's apple broom stands and Elenya wastes no time taking it in hand and sweeping widdershins in a widening spiral, until she removes all the dust and otherwise unwanted energies into the great hall and then into the fire. Deer again admires the hemicolumns set against the wall about the stone room's perimeter, which support the ribwork of its vaulted ceiling, before opening the small panel on the eastern section of the wall. The lever Cloud discovered last spring he pulls down, and is somewhat surprised to note that it moves even farther... Elenya, re-entering the stone room, is caught breathless for a moment as the copper blades over the skylight retract first to reveal the large iris they'd all seen earlier, then drop all the way down to rest upon the capitals of the room's thirteen columns. In here, those same stars seem even brighter, and twinkle with the promise of a Presence which both of those watching eagerly anticipate.

Elenya finishes laying out the evening's altar cloth upon the old slab in the stone room's center and setting upon it candlesticks with one silver taper and one gold, when they hear the rustle of folk arriving in the great hall. She gives the black-green cloth a final adjustment, assuring that the silver pentagram of Celtic knotwork and the braided spirals about its edges are appropriately oriented. Deer quickly places quarter candles upon the four sculpted pedestals positioned at the room's perimeter - beeswax pillars heavily scented with the finest essential oils of mysore sandalwood for West, placed upon a white poplar trunk; nepali amber for South, within a linden's crown (some observers might *see* the host of red-capped mushrooms where her roots mingle with those of the holm-oak hemicolumn behind her); jaipur patchouli for East, balanced upon the tips of a scots' broom; and - directly in front of the entrance - hungarian blue chamomile for North, set upon the joined trunks of silver fir and yew. He then joins his Lady at the altar for a brief moment, where both notice the first pale rays penetrating the eastern sky with a promise of tonight's moon rising in all her splendor above the widely opened skylight.

Both check a final time the essentials upon the altar for this evening's ritual: a green crystal thimble filled with sea-salt, a copper bowl of fresh rainwater, and a small reiku censer with charcoal beside a smaller silver plate covered with powdered dragon's blood and champa. There too are their athames, Deer's of georgian silver covered in spirals and Elenya's of pewter with a Goddess handle; Deer's bronze torq; and a long, thick section of unwrought linden root which shall soon become a wand. Deer whispers, "bowl of my mother's best friend, torq of my forebears' freedom, root of my great-grandmother's ancestral tree, and blade of my own finding; join me tonight in our rededication to the Lady and Lord." Assured that all is ready, the pair move back toward the hall to greet friends and family, and after closing the doors to this sacred space welcome with the broadest of smiles and warmest of hugs each new arrival to the evening's festivities.

As the hours of early evening pass, the old hall is once again filled with the sounds of conversation and merriment... friends catching up on recent events, discussing individual plans and aspirations for this evening's ritual, and perhaps even a tale or two of their adventures in the wood upon the spiral path so invisibly - and yet unmistakably - marked out for them by the old stag whose home is tonight the grove about this place. The hall is filled with the scents of carolina deerstongue and sudanese frankincense from the many beeswax votives burning in every nook and cranny, and with the gathering smells of the feast being lain for afterwards. Seemingly from within the walls themselves emanates the sound of many a lively reel, and those gathered sometimes pause to note the individual artistry of bagpipe, bodhran, dulcimer, fiddle, harp, and uillean; perhaps not realizing that while many of the evening's tunes are heard by all, there is also a single melody for each which no one else hears...

Both check a final time the essentials upon the altar for this evening's ritual: a green crystal thimble filled with sea-salt, a copper bowl of fresh rainwater, and a small reiku censer with charcoal beside a smaller silver plate covered with powdered dragon's blood and champa. There too are their athames, Deer's of georgian silver covered in spirals and Elenya's of pewter with a Goddess handle; Deer's bronze torq; and a long, thick section of unwrought linden root which shall soon become a wand. Deer whispers, "bowl of my mother's best friend, torq of my forebears' freedom, root of my great-grandmother's ancestral tree, and blade of my own finding; join me tonight in our rededication to the Lady and Lord." Assured that all is ready, the pair move back toward the hall to greet friends and family, and after closing the doors to this sacred space welcome with the broadest of smiles and warmest of hugs each new arrival to the evening's festivities.

As the hours of early evening pass, the old hall is once again filled with the sounds of conversation and merriment... friends catching up on recent events, discussing individual plans and aspirations for this evening's ritual, and perhaps even a tale or two of their adventures in the wood upon the spiral path so invisibly - and yet unmistakably - marked out for them by the old stag whose home is tonight the grove about this place. The hall is filled with the scents of carolina deerstongue and sudanese frankincense from the many beeswax votives burning in every nook and cranny, and with the gathering smells of the feast being lain for afterwards. Seemingly from within the walls themselves emanates the sound of many a lively reel, and those gathered sometimes pause to note the individual artistry of bagpipe, bodhran, dulcimer, fiddle, harp, and uillean; perhaps not realizing that while many of the evening's tunes are heard by all, there is also a single melody for each which no one else hears...

...Cloud arrives, with apples in her basket and a heart full of awe at the discoveries on the *new* trail through the wood. She was gifted a jay feather on the path, which she presents to Red Deer in honor of his great occasion along with an enthusiastic hug, then drops her basket of apples at the table and withdraws to rearrange the oak leaves that have found themselves in her hair...

...As Tallician approaches the Castle, his stomach flutters in nervous apprehension. He has not see his friend Deer in many months, but even the excitement of that cannot dissuade the butterflies in his stomach.

"OK my `merry' friends, help me through this." he whispers. The huge oak doors look massive, but seeing easily into the ritual room. There, ahead of him, Tallician hears the pleasant sound of laughter and merriment. His heart begins to race, but he strides forward into the room.

A chorus of `Blessed Be!" greet him. Overwhelmed, he embraces each of those in the room. Some he knows, others he does not, but still he knows they are all family...

Just before Midnight, Deer returns from a brief sojourn in the ritual anteroom. He is now barefoot, clad in sky-blue ritual robe, and wearing the familiar amber, stag's pentagram and moonstone hung about his neck. Before pulling up his hood, Deer tucks the blue feather Cloud has gifted him with into the loose braid at his back and, catching her eye, smiles a silent "Thank you." Then, just before the deep-toned voice of the cloister bells, he asks that all remove whatever footwear they may have on, and looks about to each of the friends here gathered to signal readiness for the procession into the ritual room. All having made their individual preparations, he beckons them toward the heavy doors at the great hall's far end, and asks his Lady to lead them. Deer smiles as he sees that Cloud, Owl, DesertFox and Tallician have naturally fallen into places among those gathered which will place them at the quarter points of the Circle, then takes his own place at the rear of queue. Elenya gently swings open the doors before them, and leads the group into the old stone room. Upon gaining the threshold, Deer notes that all have assumed their places about the Circle, while Elenya waits quietly before the stone altar, then gently pulls the heavy doors closed at the last toll of midnight.

Deer slowly takes his place by Elenya, and both turn to face the altar stone. Elenya removes Deer's athame from the stone and, after holding it close to her heart, passes it to him before taking up her own. "In the name of our Lady," says Deer, "and of our Lord," says Elenya. Their eyes meeting, both smile before intoning, "Let the Circle be cast." While Elenya maintains her place at the altar, Deer moves to the poplar trunk with its candle and places his blade against the stone floor. Tender wisps of selaginella seem to glow brightly gold where the point nears them, returning quickly to their usual deep green. Deosil about the Circle Deer moves, all the while chanting "Thoir eisd fhein Mathair Aobhair agus Athair Allaidh... let the Circle be cast, and the Sacred Space raised." Upon his return to West, he straightens - removing the knife-point from the flagstone before him - and proceeds to the altar by Elenya's side. Both replace their athames upon the altar and stand, for a long moment, in silence. Elenya then takes up the copper bowl of rain water, and Deer the green crystal thimble of salt - some of which he sprinkles into the water. "Water of Life," she says fluidly and "Salt of the Earth," he adds; their voices harmonize to "Join now with our will and bless this Circle." Elenya moves toward the poplar tree, as Deer replaces the thimble upon the altar and lights the coal within their censer, and she goes deosil about the Circle. She sprinkles as she walks, both the stone and selaginella where Deer has traced out their Circle as well as each of those gathered within it. Returning to the altar after completing her circuit, Elenya replaces the bowl and takes up the reiku censer, with it's already glowing coal. "Fire of thought," she says as Deer sprinkles upon the glowing ember a generous portion of the dragon's blood and champa. "Air of breath," he adds, taking the censer from Elenya, and again both call in harmony "Join now with our will and bless this Circle." As the sweet and pungent smoke billows forth, Deer once again moves deosil from the poplar tree, smudging the Circle's perimeter and each participant within, then returns to the altar.

Slowly, Elenya and Deer turn about the Circle - catching the eye of each present, before Elenya takes her place among their friends. As Red Deer stands before the altar, all gathered become intensely aware of the brilliantly silver full moon shining from directly overhead through the great opened dome. In a room otherwise unlit, they slowly begin to feel some of the power this place holds. And those who choose to *see*, find not a circle of stone columns with capitals supporting the arch-work of an overhead ceiling, but a grove through whose intertwined branches shine the moon and stars. Deer is momentarily overtaken by the effect of being surrounded by the ancient, living gift made in a craneskin bag of our Lady to our Lord, in balanced harmony about the Circle of celebrants. Addressing each and all, he states, "My friends, I welcome you all to our ritual this moon. In honor of my rededication, you have agreed to much which is not your usual tradition, but is mine. For this I thank you one and all. Now cast the Circle be. Please invite the four guardians to join us." He turns to Cloud who will begin with West, bows low and smiles, before moving to Elenya's side and taking in his her hand...

...Cloud, her green-brown robe catching moonlight and oak leaves hugging the gray streaks in her hair, moves to the west quarter, watching her feet in respect for the selaginella. She flashes Red Deer a quick smile, for the lovely growth of all he has planted in this place, but especially this quick green.

Her hands dance waves over the unlit sandalwood candle for a moment, then still as she speaks:

*Hail, powers of the West, first water of Water: waves devouring all and leaving unexpected gifts, we welcome the steadfast law of Change in this time of shifting seasons. Be one with our tides, of life, world, and times, rush in the beat of loving hearts, wash our lives of that which must pass, and leave your blessings on the beaches of our souls. We ask your presence among us, now in the forever place and forever in the changing world. Be here, now*

Cloud lights the west candle, raises it to salute the quarter, and then turns to let its light shine around the circle. An answering light rebounds from the vaulting around the brilliant moon in the skylight, glittering a little on all present as she replaces the light and returns to her place in the circle to await...

...Owl, who smiles warmly at the gathering of the Kindred... and turning to the North, she draws a sigil in the stillness before her. From the folds of her sage green robes, she brings her Bodhran and strikes it gently three times... calling out, "Hail Guardians of the North, Elemental of Earth, by all the names known to those who revere you, come join this gathering, protect those who hold you dear and celebrate with us this night." Owl then drums a sharp dry cadence, like the sands of the desert sifting through the dunes... then a slower, softer tone, like pebbles washing on the beach... then a deeper note, throbbing like deep rumble of the volcano which creates new earth shapes... and finally a rapid, deep, coughing sound as it must have been as the earth was forming.

The drum sounds hangs in the air like a path for the Guardian to follow.... and in the silence of the drum, another thrumming is heard as the earth shifts to heed the call.

Owl lights the North candle... and steps back to Circle, waiting for...

...DesertFox, heart warmed by t The gathering of our sacred kindred, knowing that such a gathering happens only once a month. He turns to the East, as a gust of wind blows upon the sacred gathering. Raising both arms stretched out while holding a wand, he calls out: "Hail, Guardians of the East, great Elemental of Air, powers of the winds. By your sacred names come forth, and join us in this holy rite. Bless this sacred circle as we assemble in the ancient names of the Lord and Lady. Blessed Be."

Standing outstretched, the winds blow stronger and stronger, and yet the candle flames are not extinguished. The cool breeze comes as a welcome to those who have suffered in the heat of the summer, as it blows everyone knows that summer's time is soon nigh. A new season, Mabon, approaches bringing with it a slow passing of life unto death for many living things- -a yearly act of Nature.

DesertFox now steps toward the East candle and lights it, quietly and reverently... he steps back to circle... and waits for the next quarter...

...As each of the quarters is called, Tallician has silently awaited his turn. He steps forth and enters the circle. His hands tremble. "It's all right little brother, you can do it," a familiar voice resounds in his head. A glance towards Red Deer is greeted with a very reassuring nod, and a smile. Clearing his mind and refocusing on his task, he reassures himself that there's nothing to fear. He turns to the south, and lights the candle, then says with arms reaching out:

"Guiding spirits of the South, Powers of Fire Light the way that we walk, protecting us within this Circle Together we meet in this sacred place in the warmth of your guiding touch. We call upon you with love in our hearts to bring out the blazing fire in our souls. We welcome you, O spirits of the South, to witness our holy rite."

Closing his eyes and clearing his mind he draws the invoking pentagram with his athame, envisioning every line with a warm radiating energy that fills the circle. With a long sigh of relief, Tallician returns to his place in the circle with a glowing smile...

...Elenya smiles at the callers, the power of whose well done work she feels within the quarters of their Circle. Still holding Deer's hand, she proceeds back to the altar with him. Turning to face Red Deer, Elenya stands with her arms bent at the elbows, palms facing the sky. She looks at the great expanse above those gathered together, and taking a deep breath, slowly intones:

"Thoir eisd fhein, Athair Allaidh...
bringer of our participation with the sensual world.
By antler and hoof,
by blood and arrow,
by trail and shadow and greenwood roof
by love and life do I invite Thee
to illuminate the body of this, my Lord."

As she lowers her arms, a fiery glow covers the form of Red Deer, bathing him in the light of whom he aspects. She leans forward, smiling as she takes his hands in her own, and awaits...

...Facing Elenya, Red Deer drops to his right knee, with both hands clasped upon his left. He watches as she assumes the blessing position, with arms upraised, then slides back his hood to free his flowing hair and gazes intently into her eyes:

"Thoir eisd fhein, Mathair Aobhair...
bearer of the sensual world with which we participate.
By seed and root,
by bud and stem,
by leaf and flower and fruit,
by life and love do I invite Thee
to enfold the body of this, my Lady."

A moment passes before Elenya, brilliant in light of whom she aspects, lowers her arms. With a smile, she reaches down again to take both of Deer's hands in her own and he rises slowly. Face to face they stand, content to spend an eternity within each other's smiles, before Deer slides his arms about Elenya's waist and draws her toward him. The words she hears, half sung and half whispered, are both for her from her Deer and for the Mother from her Horned One:

"Dancing in the dark, middle of the night
taking your heart, and holding it tight...
Emotional touch, touching my skin
asking you to do what you've been doing
all over again...

It's a beautiful thing,
don't think I can keep it all in
I've just gotta let you know,
what it is that won't let me go...
It's your love, it just does something to me
sends a shock right through me,
I can't get enough...
And if you wonder
about the spell I'm under,
it's your love.

Better than I was, more than I am
and all of this happened, by taking your hand...
Who I am now, is who I've wanted to be
now that we're together, loving you forever
I'm happy and free...

It's a beautiful thing,
don't think I can keep it all in
I've just gotta let you know,
what it is that won't let me go...
It's your love, it just does something to me
sends a shock right through me,
I can't get enough...
And if you wonder,
about the spell I'm under
it's your love."

A kiss, one new as this moment and yet old as the song of the stars, they share, before returning to their place within the Circle. Still holding Elenya's hand, Deer addresses those about them:

"The Circle is raised and the guardians are here. The five sacred things are joined - in this place which is no place, this time which is no time - and Our Lady and Lord stand among us to grant us hearing. Bring unto Them your praise, your blessings and your petitions - that these may be dealt with as They will."

Deer looks serenely about the circle, waiting for the first to come forth...

...As Red Deer stands in revere a large cloud of smoke begins to appear a few feet behind him. Swirling faster and faster as it grows to a human form, shrouded in the dark cloud a voice rings out to him, a voice full of youth and energy. "I am with you Dear Uncle." as the smoke fades away it reveals the form of Typo Demon. standing now next to Red Deer dressed in his fine black ritual robe. his hair tied back and the fire in his eyes glowing with admiration for his uncle. "See Uncle, circles are a wonderful thing they always come back to the center again. and if you look around I'm sure you will find your niece here too...." Typo stands at his uncle's side and waits...

.........Briefly forgetting that they were in Circle, Deer throws his arms around Typo while blinking back tears. "Nephew! I'm so glad that you're here, as this is a most special moon for me." Deer quickly regains his composure, and looks about the Circle to see what wonder might next occur.........

...Carielle pads forward on bare feet, her hair red hair hanging free over her deep green robe. Her hands are hidden behind her back, and a mysterious smile plays on her lips. She stops to give her dear uncle, and her dear aunt, a hug before moving to the center of the circle.

"Lord and Lady, I bring a gift for an uncle, a friend, a man whose knowledge and strength of character I admire and respect. Please bless this gift and the one who it now belongs to."

Carielle walks to Red Deer and places in his hands a small black pouch; on the front is embroidered in gold the head of an antlered stag, while on the back is embroidered in silver willow tree.

"Uncle Red Deer, once again as Typo said, the circle brings us together....and once again we are all made the richer for the experience. Let this gift remind you, when we're not here, that we're only a thought away. Inside you will find a single stone, a tiger's eye. Let it guide you in truth, and in love."

With a smile, Carielle turns and moves to her beloved TypoDemon, and her eyes glow with happiness. How GOOD it feels to be among old friends and family again!..

.........Before Carielle moves to Typo's side, Deer accepts the beautiful gift. He expects to maintain at least a modicum of composure with this encounter, but...

Gripping his niece in a bear of a hug, Deer momentarily lifts her off the floor. Suddenly aware of his exuberance, he replaces her gently upon the stone and whispers, "Thank you niece. Your sense of the magickal awes me. The stag is evident. Having chosen Saille for the back, I must ask... How did you know it is the tree to which I belong, even though not the one of my birth?" From the bottom of my heart, a thousand thank yous Cari."

Retaking Elenya's hand, Deer once again looks about the circle, waiting for the next who comes to petition.........

...In the quiet, serene circle DesertFox slowly approaches. The air still brisk with energy, candles burning bright. He places three ears of ornamental corn before the altar as a gift to the gods and goddesses, and petitions for perfect peace, perfect trust and perfect love.

Petitioning even further for the protection of the gods and goddesses- -to protect our homes, our families, our very existence- - DesertFox places the 3 ears of corn into the cauldron, one by one- -setting them ablaze. The smoke rising into the sky toward the heavens, he retreats back to his place in the circle- -awaiting the next to petition...

...Norda comes forth to the center, her little pale feet looking more than ever like little cat paws. She is enjoying the simultaneous feel of cool flagstone floor and matted forest floor in this wonder-strewn Ritual Room on this, her first, visit to the Old Castle. She smoothes down her coppery velvet skirts in her habitual unconsciously nervous gesture. but she cannot restrain the wide grin at the success of Typo and Carielle's surprise return. She flashes them a big hug with her blue-grey eyes and prepares to make her petition, her face moving into more solemn lines, "Great Mother, thank you for bringing all our new friends & old friends together here in the time of Mabon...Father Bright, thank you for keeping us safe and well....I ask nothing for myself this moon, but ask the love and light of the Lady and Lord upon three friends of mine who are suffering varying degrees of poor health and broken-heartedness...ease the losses they have suffered and are about to suffer. Be with them as I will try to be with them."

Reaching into her ever-present red belt pouch, Norda brings forth a miniature wreath of twigs, twisted into a heart and festooned with the first Autumn leaves. "My offering to you, Lady and Lord, it is as like the one that graces my own door as I could make it. Thank you for the blessings of the season, the harvest and its bounty, for the security of my home, the love of my mate, the joy of a sprightly cat on my hearth, and the companionship of all in this Circle and those beyond, even if they are too shy to step out of the shadows."

Twiddling her topaz pendant, Norda steps back to her place in the Circle...

...LadyGreen steps forward to the altar; her flowing purple ritual robe swirling around her as she walks. She pauses, and smiles in greeting to her dear friends Eleyna and Red Deer. Turning her attentions to the midnight sky, she takes a deep breath, soaking in the radiance of the full moon above. In front of the altar LadyGreen places the grape vine basket; trimmed with acorns and oak leaves and filled with apples, gourds, wheat and rye; that she has been carrying. "Great Mother, on this night and with this rite we honor you. I, your child, daughter of the moon, bring this petition to you. Mother, I, and many who are dear to me, am in need of the healing only your loving presence can bring. May their, and my, pain, be it physical, emotional or spiritual be eradicated. Through you, all love grows. May all our lives be filled with love and joy. I thank you for your continuing guidance and protection. May I ever follow in your steps, my Lady. So mote it be." LadyGreen rejoins the circle, and smiles as she gazes upon those she so dearly loves, and awaits the next petitioner...

...Owl steps forward and places the picture of a young girl on the altar... She laces a chain of rosemary sprigs around the Goddess candle and lights the end of the sprig from the flame. As the rosemary smolders, leaving a smudge as the flame twines the length of the candle, Owl speaks in low echoing voice... Mother remember, mother embrace, mother hold this child to your bosom...

Raising her arms and lifting her voice to the full moon shining above, "From the heart of the Crones, Hecate, Sekmet, Macha, Cerrwiden... three things I ask on behalf of this child... HONOR her memory... respect her CLAN... expose the TRUTH... I ask for Justice... so mote it be." Owl stands for a moment as the rosemary burns to ash... then turns and looks at each in circle... with tears in her eyes she asks each to focus on protecting the children... and then she steps quietly back to her place in circle... waiting for the next...

...Stepping forward as a ghost through a fog, a hooded figure approaches clad in a deep brown satin. As if fading into full sight, Azeroth steps forward to the caldron. Slipping from his sleeve a pair of small vials, opening one, he adds the contents of it to the blaze in offering of thanks to the elements for being able to attend Brother Red Deer's rededication this moon, the flames of which blazes up in height in response and approval. He places the second vial among the gifts for the Lord and Lady, a sample of this past seasons meade within it. "I give thanks to Lady and Lord for this season's harvest and for the new and old friends bless them with the strength and insight to remain on their chosen paths and to mend their wounds." Turning to leave a small tinkling is heard from above as a new addition has been hung high in the skylight a small wind chime and with that Azeroth fades back into the shadows from where he came to and waits...

....the quiet form of Alonda Starbryte as she slowly makes her way to the center of the circle. Auburn hair lying loosely upon a robe of muted greens, yellows, whites and blues, she holds a circlet of blue morning glories in her hand. Amazingly enough, they are blooming before the dawn of the new day and full under the strength of the moon and stars. She silently whispers her thanks to the Lord and Lady, raises her eyes to the light of the moon then back to the cauldron where she lays the circlet amidst the offerings that have gone before her in the flames.

"Thank you, dear Lord and Lady, for the strength and compassion, along with the warrior spirit that you have endowed me with. I have no blessings to ask for myself since I know that when they are needed You will always provide exactly what is needed."

Bowing her head, she turns back toward the circle and the others, stopping briefly before her Brother Red Deer. "And to you kind brother, I offer my thoughts and prayers of congratulations for your rededication." Clasping both of his hands in hers she presses them gently to her bosom, releasing them in friendship and going back to her place among the family. Quietly, she meditates on this Full Moon and its significance as she awaits...

...Annwn heard the call long before the summons came. She knew this moon would bring a gathering of family as had not been for sometime. Although she was intrinsically linked to many in this Circle... her own journey had not brought her to this house of hearts before.

Since Samhain nearly two years before, she had walked her own personal desert , shining grains laced with dark passages, cursed, hated, anguished steps gifted her by the Mother, forged of her own will, designed to bring rebirth.

As she stood now, washed in kinship... she chuckled to herself, "Be careful what you ask for," and then more solemnly an old saying "One must dance very fast if one wears red shoes"... be prepared to meet the challenge of your own power.

Annwn respectfully waited to come forward... honored to share in her Dear Brother's rededication...

Before the circle was cast she had quietly placed a large pumpkin from her garden near the stone altar... having arrived a bit bedraggled she had stepped from the rows of thriving herbs and climaxed crops to these Hallowed Halls... feverishly trying to complete her own harvest all the while Anglesey practiced her own very special style of gardening... pick a little peach, take a little bite... and put it in the basket... pick a little peach... take a little bite... put it in the basket... the thought of which made Annwn smile..

She felt at last the prompt to move towards the embodied Lord and Lady...

Quite simply dressed in a cotton shift the color of lichen, bound with a belt woven over the years from selected corn husks... ending then with dangling mussel shells that clattered or chimed as the listener discerned when she was moved to dance... she bowed in deepest respect.

Her hair was adorned with dirt, dust and seed heads of hyssop and lyre leaf sage although a closer look also revealed some anonymous seeds that harvested themselves, leaping aboard like vagabonds on a train... faithfully or daringly off for a new life... her ritual bath had been the dying summer sun... her anointing oil the sweet sweaty musk of her own flesh, and her ritual cup had wrought a deep drink of the intoxicating light of the harvest moon.

Ready... she centers and approaches.

I have no petition Mother as we have met on our own terms, but rather only a story to share with my friends... a bare bones tale... no flowery words as the petals have fallen... the seeds are stored... the meat yet to be harvested when you phase again... To begin:

It is Midsummer and a beloved sister has chosen to join another in marriage... for her and in your honor I had vowed to gather scented stems and colorful blossoms to arrange in bounty... commemorating the blessed day... my time as always attached to the needs of others... this your blessing to teach me humility and giving... it occurs to me that I will not have the occasion to cast a circle, another Sabbat past without formality... but never without thought of you... I am determined I shall have daisies in my bouquet... the Faeries would have it so... to my own garden where no daisies grow of their own accord... I bid farewell... passing the gate of pine... and begin the walk through vacant fields... I am perturbed by the stalks and dock that scratch at my ankles and seem to labor through the tall grasses to reach the pond... I am angry at the struggle...

Grumbling and complaining I reach the gate that links the pond to my path... my back to the South I sign a welcome and self blessing... and ask if they should wish to join me... the guardians be present here... dragonflies drone fiercely around my head like the deep humming that crowds my mind when I travel or return from beyond... I look down... a lovely patch of daisies answer my anger at the incessant noise... and my thoughts soften... as I submerse myself in the task of choosing and asking permission of the spirits here... there is a clattering sound that drives me to distraction... a little peace here please... I finally respond to the call with threatening eyes.. blackbird sits in a thorn tree... calling for me to look... I laugh again at my dark mood... and I ask little brother where he would have me go... I move to him and in the field of vision beyond him see below... my holy place and spy a stag's face peering through the grass just under the willow... but even as I look... black hoofs kicked high in retreat is all that remains. I thank Druid Dhubh, the inner call... for the reminder to remember... to "see..." and pass by his gateway... hoping to at least see the place in the grass where the deer had lain... it had been the stag... and his mate. Once again I am met with obstacles... the grass is over my head... raspberry bushes reach out to grab my clothes... the ground from the night's rain is not solid beneath my feet... I am not prepared for this type of journey... again I grumble... again, I complain... but my focus is on reaching the base of the Willow... I move forward... forget the hardship... and see only where I would be...

The water in the stream flows freely beside the Willow... then turns to look at the looker before moving on...the grass is fashioned into a cushion for the departing pair... they will return when I am gone... the faery mound has not lessened with the pressure of water rushing past, but appears even to have grown... I am so heartfully thankful for this moment at Midsummer... I think I'd like to forge beyond - to the place where the golden lady resides... and break free of the branches that have woven themselves into a barricade... realizing I am beyond myself in ability to meet this task... I am stuck... angry... and now a bit afraid... the obstacles I complained of before are but dust to this... as I fear I will not make it to the golden lady... nor make it home... I understand that my choice is to stop right... simply relinquish and die... OR... to take the steps required... The Mother does not care which... both serves the whole... I choose and by my will move forward... as I navigate the sea of grasses and mount the edge of the pond... I feel the movement of essence through space then am aware of my human figure returning... in my abandon, for a moment I had been a doe stepping lightly, mindfully through the bracken - guided only by the single task of "being".

My own feet once more meet the Earth... two not four squarely under me... I look back to what I have overcome... what is ahead is only what I perceive it to be.

Annwn moves toward the stone altar and as she does her form changes to blue the color of mist above the ocean...golden light shining within and around...she places her hands on the stones.

"Dear Brother I leave you this memory and these words... May your Will be stronger than your Fear... May Love be the "meristem" of your will."

Annwn returns not to the circle... but walks into the stone...

...Owl claps her hands in delight as Annwn moves into the stone... "Well done!" A gift of magick is always welcome, so let me add this to your special time, Red Deer." Owl steps a bit towards the center of the circle, and with a mischievous grin, extends her arms a bit, palms up, and begins to walk widdershins within the circle... a strong step forward follows the next... her robes fill with the breeze of her passing, the scents of the altar seem to swirl after her and a bit of a haze lingers as she passes. And if you look very closely... you can see her shadow beneath heron the ground... but there are no footprints. "Blessed Be Red Deer and all gathered here... 'tis time to fly... and she reaches out grab Elenya's hand to bring her into the dance...

...Elenya takes Owl's hand and joins her friend in the dance. She closes her eyes, the energy filling her body and soul, lifting her above the earth at her feet. Before she gets completely "carried away", El remembers the task at hand and slowly brings herself back to earth. Grinning broadly she flashes a smile at Owl and reluctantly lets go of her hand. She straightens her flowing dress, a polished black cotton with a square neckline trimmed with gold, and smoothes her auburn hair, which has also taken flight. Approaching the altar, she places upon it a grapevine wreath made the day before, containing sprigs of dried yarrow and bittersweet, rowan berries, oak leaves, marigolds, acorns and dried apple rings. Lowering her head, she begins to speak.

"Ancient Ones, in this season of harvest and bounty, I come before you with sincere thanks. As Your season of harmony and balance is also reflected in my life, I am eternally grateful. I ask that you continue to guide my workings and as my path becomes clearer, I commit myself to Your will." Elenya reaches into a small suede pouch hanging at her side and pulls out a stone of yellow topaz. "For the children," she whispers, and lays it upon the altar.

Elenya turns and slowly walks back to her place in the circle beside her "deer" one. She looks onto all the faces gathered together on this most special night. As she gazes into Red Deer's eyes she smiles, knowing that above all, friendship is the greatest gift of all. Elenya takes Red Deer's hand in hers, then turns to await...

...With great delight, PaleHawk watches Owl and all before me... she slowly comes from the corner of the west... feeling the pure love of all... She takes each into her arms and holds them.... saying, "I love you." Her heart is filled with great joy of once again being with my brothers and sisters those she knows and those she does not.

Approaching Elenya, PaleHawk kneels before her, eyes lowered. Goddess of us all... thank you so much for taking me into your arms and guiding me. From beneath her robe, she brings forth a twig from a tree once touched together... "This is in remembrance of when we first touched."

Rising and going to her Brother, Red Deer, she kneels before him... "I thank you Lord of the Forest for bringing this man into my life." From underneath her robe she brings forth one of her own pale feathers... "This Lord is for this man... may he be able to accomplish all he desires and wills."

Standing and moving before the alter, again, PaleHawk goes into her robe and brings forth the purest of honey and freshly made bread. "May this be a sign of not only having enough food for all mankind but enough of the light to finally change from the past into a new destiny of peace, love, light and laughter."

Going back to the west corner, she fades into the shadows, now quiet and at peace, filled with the love for all she has met this night. We await the next to enter...

...as Arcadia steps forward into the circle, approaches her friends Red Deer and Elenya, and presents them with a deep curtsy. Her dark purple robe falls fold upon fold onto the floor as she honors her friends. Arising, she turns and places a single red rose upon the Altar.

"For You, Gracious Lady, the last from my garden." Bathed in glorious moonlight, Arcadia raises her arms. "Gracious Mother, I come before you at this time, to ask for guidance. There is a very special person in my life, that has found herself besieged with problems. The unhappiness in her life saddens me so. Please, Dear Mother, give me the grace to be a support for her, as she has for so many times in the past. Let me carry some of her unhappiness, just for awhile, while you are carrying her also. She is my sister, and I love her so."

Arcadia returns to her place in the Circle to await...

...as Palastien looks at the faces of those in the circle, her eyes tear at the sight of so many wonderful friends. Holding her left hand is her warrior, her protector, her life mate... he holds her heart in his hand. On the right is gently clasped a small hand, that of her grandchild, Katie. Placing Katie's hand in Targe's she steps forward. She offers to the Lady and the Lord bright yellow flowers from her garden, she raises her hands and stares upward at the moon and the stars and offers thanks. She looks back upon the past five years, and is so thankful that she has been shown the way. She realizes she has erred in judgment and made mistakes, but at the same time learned and grown from those mistakes, and vows to continue her studies and stick tight to the path that was showed to her in her dreams by the Lady. She peers downwards at the face of her beloved grandchild, she remembers her mixed reaction to her coming to the world, and thanks the Lady for her daughters off spring, she burns in her heart like a fire. Palastien then thanks the Lady and Lord for hearing her and Targe's calls for healing when Katie was very ill last week, for the day after their petition Katie was by the doctors words miraculously improved. Palastien glows in the love of her mate of the past twenty years of this life and of life times before, she is warmed to her very soul from the love of those in the circle, she has been truly blessed. She turns and takes her place next to love of old and love of new...

...Targe turns to Palastien, his soul mate, his life partner and gives her a warm hug. He looks down at his granddaughter and smiles and thinks of all the joy she has brought to his life. He raises his eyes toward the moon and hears the distant skirl of the pipes and knows the old ones are with him this night. Targe strides towards the alter dressed in the kilt of his clan. His face painted in woad in the pattern of his fore bearers. He lays a caplet of Scottish thistle with the other offerings. Targe turns and looks at the faces of all present and feels the love and energy of them all. His eyes stop when he comes to his dear friend Owl. His heart is filled to the brink when he sees her. "Owl my friend, thanks to your help I have found a path that the old one who guides me has been trying to get me to follow. Your insight and caring has opened my eyes and my heart to an energy that was always there, but I could not see. There are no proper words I can say that can express my thanks. The best I can do is to say thank you with all my heart." Targe once more turns to the alter and gathers his thoughts. Removing his dirk from his belt, he holds it high "Lord and Lady, for all you have shown and given me I thank you. I was out of work for many months and your love and energy guided me to a job that will help me take care of my family and provide for them. You showed patience with me when I faltered from the path and welcomed me back with love when I found your path again. Your wisdom and love has made me a better person and I will strive to uphold your teachings in my thoughts and deeds. I swear this on my dirk as all of my clan have in times past... So Mote It be." Before he takes his place back in the circle, he reaches in his sporron and takes out a piece of amber and places it on the alter "for the children." Targe takes his place back in the circle next to his beloved Palastien, and watches as...

...Typo stands next to Carielle with a small tear in his eye as he watches his friends and comrades celebrating in the light and love of the Lord and Lady, for he knows that his time to remain here is short. he walks to the alter and places on it a small piece of Amethyst. this crystal that 10 years ago was to mark the start of his awakening to the path of the old gods. when he saw it sitting on the table in a small "Hippie" shop all alone amongst tye dye shirts and "smoking accessories" it called to him. He'd picked it up and mentally noted that was "cool lookin'" and put it back down. and soon was back holding it again. the person running the shop noticed his interest in the crystal and told him that it was an Amethyst crystal legendary for its powers to ward off drunkenness. and also for mental abilities. he'd looked at Typo's sister who had brought Typo to the shop and said that they could have it for free and that she could have one too. Typo didn't know why he was drawn to that small crystal then but he does now. "I offer you this crystal Uncle Red. Typo places the crystal in Red's hand and steps back by Carielle taking her hand in his and smiling...

...Cloud approaches the altar, and there places photos of her grandchildren: a lovely young girl with sun in her cheeks, with a prayer for her safety when driving; her sister grinning merrily but with shadows behind her eyes, with a prayer that she may come safely and wisely into her not inconsiderable *power*; and a sweetly smiling baby boy, with a fervent wish that his possible health problem come to naught after all.

She places a bundle of the summer's herb harvest in the flames, in thanks for a bountiful year indeed, and steps back into the circle to await...

...Flidais moves from her place in circle to the tinkling of bells from the anklet that is just visible beneath her leaf green robe. A chain of rowan berries are around her neck and her curly auburn hair is wild with the twigs and leaves of many different trees, for why should one walk a path of earth when a path of tree limbs and branches are only a climb away. Walking to the altar she glances at Owl with eyes bright from tears and solemnly reaches into her robe. Taking out two pictures she places them beside the one Owl has already set there, and all can see the face of a young girl and the even younger boy who can be none other than siblings. "Mother hold them close to your heart and grant their family an easing of pain. I ask that justice be done on the one who sent them too soon to your arms." Stepping back she raises her arms to the bright moon "Lady, I also ask a boon for the mother of a friend, hold her close in your healing embrace and calm the worries of her family so that they may give her the love and reassurance she needs." lowering her arms she reaches once again into her robes to remove a pouch, which she places upon the flames. Soon the scents of rowan, lemon balm and rue mix with the many others floating through the room.

Turning from the altar Flidais walks to where Red Deer is standing and smiling, curtsies before saying "a gift for remembrance" then moves back as she starts to dance to the music the room has given her. As she spins she whispers and though none can make out the words they begin to see the vision that the words bring forth...all see a forest glade and as they watch the figures of Red Deer and Elenya appear, arms clasped around each other in love. Just as a stag breaks through the trees and approaches to stand by them a falcon descends from the sky to land on his shoulder. Looking closely two forms can be seen to approach from behind, their figures hazy as they change from young to old, innocence to wisdom and back again, each person watching sees the form most beloved to them as the Lord and Lady walk forward to place their hands in blessing upon the heads of their children in the clearing. As they fade back into the surrounding woods others appear by ones and twos greeting Red Deer with a smile or a touch, all those who have been or are special to him passing to him their love and blessing during this time of his rededication... As the vision fades, the music of the dance becomes heard by all, the deep beat of the drums matching heartbeats as the pipes and fiddles bring a smile and joy to those gathered here. The music and dance end as one and Flidais tired but happy, winks at Cari and Typo before returning to her place and awaits...

...FyreLily steps quickly and resolutely forward, a soft smile playing on her lips as she looks around at her Soul-Friends. Her eyes close gently as she thinks how much she has in common with those gathered, how truly awesome moments like this are, how blissful to experience this reconsecration of life under the Light of the Worlds. Lips still curved serenely upward, eyes still closed, spirit turned toward the heart, she places her hands gently, respectfully among the gifts and tokens. She knows there is no better contribution she can make than to be fully in this moment, to lay bare her heart and soul for this brief window in time. She can hear the others breathing around her. Without a word, she opens her eyes, gazing out at those who understand this silence, who speak this language... and steps back into the mingled group as quickly as she came forward, a single tear making its way down one cheek...

...Woodnymph bounces to the center of circle with a gleam in her eye... pulling forth a new crochet alter cloth, she adds it to the gifts for this place and giggling as she addresses the Lord and Lady. "I am thankful for the wonderful 'clan' than has been forged & thankful for those who were with me during my surgery. And for those who make the PPP." With a bounce and a twirl spreading PPP over everyone as she springs up into the treetops with a maniacal "heheheheheh..."

...Targe once more walks towards the alter. "My Lord and Lady... my dear granddaughter has had a relapse. I ask you to please help her in her time of need. Help heal her small body and ease her pain. So Mote It be." He places a picture of his granddaughter on the alter and returns to his place in the circle...

...And Bronwyn slips forward out of the shadows, her robe catching and returning the silver-gold light of the moon-mother's face. She pulls a small homespun pouch from her belt, and reaching in, takes up a handful of white powder: flour made from specially blessed wheat she had sown around the margins of her vegetable garden. "Mother by a thousand names, I ask for nothing for myself except that you continue to guide my steps on this path I have chosen. Sometimes the path is difficult, but I know I am more whole for the experience. I thank you most deeply for the beautiful harvest this year. I thank you for my children who wear your and your beloved Consort's face. May my hands play your magic songs, may my voice sing your unconditional love, may my heart beat in the rhythm of all nature." Facing the fire, Bronwyn tosses the flour into the air above it, and it is carried out to the heavens for the good of all.

Gazing at the fullness in the sky, Bronwyn's belly fills with the surge of potential, of new life, of all possibilities as that which makes her female releases its burgeoning seed in resonance with the sacred dance of the Lady and Lord. Bronwyn then turns to Red Deer. Love, friendship, and acceptance are palpable in the room. "Thank you for bringing us here together, my friend. It is an honor and a joy to be a part of this special rite tonight. Please accept this small gift from my garden. It represents the perfect union of Earth and Sun and Water and Breath of Life. May you be ever blessed." She hands him a small bunch of green-gold grapes, still wearing the dew of autumn eve. Grabbing him in a quick hug, she returns to her place, embarrassed at the sharp emotion suddenly piercing her...

...Nymue' , encircled in a robe the color of the sea, steps from the shadows. She is awed by the love and warmth of her friends. Quietly approaching the alter, she places a small disc shaped object upon it.

"Blessed Lord and Lady, this gift from the sea was given up to me by your oceans. I bring it as a token of my thanks to you for the wonders you have given me these past months. Your gifts and joys where mixed with challenges and lessons leading to a re- awaking in me. From the passing of a much loved parent to the union with my beloved Gandolff you have shown me the purpose of the cycles. You have reminded me that you are the center of my existence, and helped me grow."

Nymue' looks and the sand dollar she has placed upon the alter and thinks of the significance of it's form and the purity of it's color.

"Ancient ones, I now turn to you for strength and guidance in my newest challenge. A new job has come to me very welcome, yet unexpected. It is to me the dream of a lifetime , but not without concern. It is now in my hands to effect the lives of many children who are in much need of support, many of them have no one to turn to or guide them. I ask your help in looking over these children, please assist me to give to them the care and guidance that they need, and the strength to fight for them when no one else will."

Stepping back to her place, beside her beloved magickal Gandolff, she looks around. Nymue' is moved by the strength of feeling within this gathering, the unconditional love between her brother and sister ; Red Deer and Elenya, the calm of her soul mate Gandolff , the wonder of dearest little Anglesey, the bond of compassion and caring of all present. Nymue' chuckles to herself at the magic of her dearest sister Annwn and exchanges a mischievous glance with Owl. And then...

...Raavin steps forward, Forest Green robe flowing as he slowly steps to the fire, placing Juniper and Cedar into the embers. Moonlight glistens off the silver brocade of his robe, his long black hair flowing freely. "Blessed Mother, Powerful Father!" he calls, arms outstretched as if to embrace the whole of the universe. "I call upon the Ancient Ones and stand before them declaring my needs, hoping they will honour this my petition. I ask them to watch over my beautiful and precious daughter Amber as she moves from the comfort of a small caring community into the harsh realities of a cold large city. May you weave your web of love and protection around her and all children. So Mote It Be." He looks toward Red Deer and finds the recognition of a fathers love in his eyes and knows he understands. Slowly turning he takes his place back in the circle and awaits, as...

...Releasing Elenya's hand, Red Deer looks around himself to each of those gathered about the Circle. "My friends, I can not thank you enough for you presence here, for the beautiful words with which you have each lifted my heart, and for the your wonderful gifts. If ever you have need of me..." his voice trails off into silence, momentarily overcome by all he has experienced this moon.

Deer moves slowly forward to the altar, where he again drops to his right knee with hands clasped over his left. Bowing his head, he is for a very long moment, silent... then, the words he whispers are between his Gods and he alone, although those in Circle feel the intensity of that dialogue. Raising his eyes to the altar, he smiles at the many new accouterments gathered there, then begins to stand. With a sinuous movement scarcely separable from the act of rising, Deer sheds his sky-blue robe. Adorned only in the symbols hung about his neck and the black ink freshly applied to his back, he stands with hands held out from his sides, palms open and supinated, and searches for his voice. Slowly, his arms rise in salutation to the night sky above them, and then he speaks.

"Thoir eisd fhein, Mathair Aobhair agus Athair Allaidh. Grant me hearing, Mother of All and Father Wild. This has always been a time of celebration within my family. All of the harvest is well away, and we approach the time of slaughter. Food aplenty is laid up for the coming Winter... we take our rest and make our merriment before the next cycle of work begins. And upon this turn of the Wheel, I mark this time more sacred to me, by rededicating myself to my Craft, to my Family, and to You." Deer lowers his gaze for a moment before he continues.

"Now, midway between Esbat and Sabbat, I have taken a mark of my service to You. A wheel of two dragons and a stag, all held close within the Circle of the Mother. And tonight, I petition You... Grant me Wonder, to make me ever joyous of participation with all around me. Grant me Depth, to perceive that which I may offer others. Grant me Awareness, to move my center outwards. Grant me Strength, to keep the vows I've made. Grant me Love, to share with those I encounter in the Dance. Grant me Wisdom, to guide the lives of those close to me, as well as my own. Grant me Rest, to have space for breath before my next labor. Grant me Valor, to do what I know in my heart is right. Grant me Calm, to see through the veil Your Turning Wheel. With these, may I go forth to make our world a better place."

Red Deer lowers his arms, reaching for the stones about his neck... First the amber he holds, quietly chanting words which come only to his friends as rhythm and melody, and then the moonstone. In the full moon's light, each seem to take on a glow of their own as Deer lowers them back to his chest. After three repetitions of an indescribably fluid motion with his hands, he takes up each again; the amber in his right hand and moonstone in his left. Deliberately allowing each to slide through his grasp, Deer raises his hands palms up before his face. There he *sees* them glowing yet, their light emanating from the elusive image of each stone still nestled in his hands. Bending low before the altar, Deer pours the energy he holds into the flames of Elenya's cast-iron cauldron - where so many other beautiful gifts have gone... "For the children... Whatever they lack, may they always find magick afoot."

Deer straightens and gazes again at the many other offerings to our Lady and Lord lain both upon the altar and upon the floor about it. He reaches for the copper bowl and raises it high above his head. After a moment, Deer lowers the bowl to his forehead and then to his heart.

"You I have put to uses Grace would never have dreamt of. My mother's best friend for all my life, and - in her own way - my mother as well, I invite her spirit: Please join with me in rededicating myself and this ritual tool which you brought out of Egypt and into my life." To west he proceeds, and smudges the bowl briefly over the sandalwood candle upon its poplar pedestal, before returning it to the altar.

Now, he takes up the bronze torq, repeating each motion he'd made with the bowl. "Symbol of the freedom of my forebears, both here and in the Old World, I was long in understanding the propriety of your place upon our altar. Guide me in each day's reclamation of freedom for myself, and also for each of those about me." To north he walks, where he smudges the torq over the chamomile candle nested upon the twin trunks of silver fir and yew, before again returning to the altar and gently replacing it.

Deer slowly cleanses his hands in the fire of the Lady's and Lord's candles before taking up the length of linden root from the altar. This he raises high above his head, turning about deosil three times before lowering it to his forehead, three more times before pressing it to his breast, and three times more ere he addresses the night. "You are of the tree my grandmother planted, from the seed of my great-grandmother's tree, which she had from those who went before her. Unwrought you are, yet in you waits the wand I shall fashion. May I be filled in my work with the five sacred things, and remove from you only that within which your true form is hidden." With the root clutched firmly to his breast, Deer moves to East and slowly smudges it above the scots' broom pilaster with its candle of patchouli. He returns the root to his breast and stands for a long moment, before returning it to the altar.

Finally, Red Deer takes his athame, repeating the motions made earlier with bowl and torq. "Many a Circle have you cast with me... For your beauty and strength I give thanks." Deer brings the dagger to south, smudging it not only in smoke from the amber candle on its linden pedestal, but lowering directly into the flame, before returning it to it's place upon the altar.

Before the aged stone covered with its many gifts, Deer drops again to his right knee, hands clasped upon his left. "Thoir eisd fhein, Mathair Aobhair agus Athair Allaidh. What might I give You that is not already Yours? Only myself might I withhold, and that I willfully give again to be the instrument of Your will. As I continue to grow within my Craft, within my life, within my dance, may my dedication to You never falter." Deer stands and turns about flashing a broad grin at each celebrant gathered around the Circle, "Let us now gather the energy of the many meaningful petitions made here tonight, and send it into our Lady's and Lord's keeping." He then returns to his mate's side and takes her hand in his.

Red Deer begins to hum a stately tune, as each about the Circle take their neighbors' hands. Releasing Elenya's, he begins slowly to move widdershins about the circle, smiling into each face that he passes. Coming back to where he began, Deer abruptly cuts toward the Circle's center, stepping slightly aside of the stone altar and proceeding toward the candle upon its poplar pedestal. Upon obtaining West, Deer turns again widdershins about another full circuit, before cutting back to center and moving to the candle mounted on the joined trunks of silver fir and yew. Again he rounds the Circle, cutting in and out to the scots' broom and again about then in and out to the linden. As they weave, Deer's tune takes on the words of his favorite singer/songwriter, and all join in the song:

"Yesterday a child came out to wonder,
caught a dragonfly inside a jar...
fearful when the sky was full of thunder
and tearful at the falling of a star."

"And the seasons, they go round and round,
and the painted ponies go up and down,
we're captive on the carousel of time,
we can't return, we can only look
behind from where we came,
and go round and round and round
in the circle game."

"Then the child moved ten times round the seasons,
skated over ten clear frozen streams...
words like, "When you're older" must appease him,
and promises of someday make his dreams."

"Sixteen springs and sixteen summers gone now,
cart wheels turn to car wheels through the town...
and they tell him, "Take your time, it won't be long now,
till you drag your feet just to slow the circles down."

"So the years spin by and now the boy is twenty,
though his dreams have lost a little grandeur coming true
there'll be new dreams, there'll be better dreams in plenty
before the last revolving year is through."

"And the seasons, they go round and round,
and the painted ponies go up and down,
we're captive on the carousel of time,
we can't return, we can only look
behind from where we came,
and go round and round and round
in the circle game."

Just as the chorus is completed for the last time, Deer finds himself approaching the altar with it's fiercely glowing tapers of silver and gold. He winds them tighter and tighter, until there is scarcely room to breath, much less to keep step without tripping over the feet of another. And, just as it seems they might round no more, he suddenly turns the dance deosil, and outwards. Faster and faster they move, taking up another song which Deer begins:

"This is the Circle that never ends,
yes it goes on and on my friends.
Some people started casting it,
not knowing what it was.
Now we'll continue casting it
forever, just because..."

The words come repetitively, first in a single stream, then - of their own accord - breaking into a round. A dizzying spiral they weave, flowing outwards just the width of one's body upon each round until, at last, they approach the perimeter of their Circle and suddenly find themselves at their original places. In unison, the group stop and drop to the ground as the word "friends" leaves the lips of one half of the singers and "because" escapes from the others. Each of them *feels* the energy they have raised gather itself, still spinning about the room, before whirling up and out through the interlaced vault above them and into the night sky. And each of them *knows* that our Lady and Lord have heard and will respond...

...After several rather lethargic moments, the group arises as one and rejoins hands. Red Deer addresses the Lady and Lord, and then each of the guardians in turn, as the altar candles and those about the Circle's perimeter flicker in their final moments. "Mother and Father, You from whom all is born, You with whom all participate, You to whom all return, we rejoice in Your Presence among us this moon. Guardians of Fire, Air, Earth, and Water, we thank you for your warding of our rite. We invite you each and all to stay if you will, partake of our feast and enjoy our companionship, or go your merry ways. Our Circle is open but unbroken. May we each move forward in joyous participation with the world which continually unfolds both about and within us."

The group stands again in silence, as the last light fades from six candles and the room is bathed only in the silver glow of a full moon now well past her zenith. Then, well-tired from their weaving but aroused by gathering scents from the feast which have begun to infiltrate their ritual space, they throw open the doors to the great hall and go happily out to satiate their thirst and hunger... and perhaps to dance, to jest and to enjoy each other's fellowship...

...and Owl's Chicken Corn Chowder...

...and Targe brought the haggis...

...and a DOUBLE pot of Meli's gumbo with asteroid chasers...

...and Lady Green Eyes' mommy (Green wanted it to be edible, after all) made us homemade apple pies...

...and Typo waves the magick phone and 12 extra large pizzas from PAPA JOHN's (shameless promotion)...

...and PaleHawk brings forth a large pot of her most delicious... butternut squash soup... hoping all will enjoy this with the home made bread...

...and, of course, Bronwyn has brought chocolate, the restorative ambrosia of the Goddess, which accompanies her to all parties, potlucks and rituals...

...Nymue' giggles, "Glad I brought the mead! Need something to wash down the goodies..."

..."CHOCOLATE!!!" Woodnymph spirals down from the treetops and grabs a handful...

...and finally, a bit over-awed by all which has transpired, Red Deer proposes a toast: "To friends and family... may we never suffer the lack of either! I thank you my brothers and sisters, one and all, for the gift of a most *glorious* sabbat."

	Red Deer's and Elenya's HomePage Return to the 1997 Full Moon Ritual Index

"It's Your Love" © Tim McGraw, 1997
"The Circle Dance" © Joni Mitchell, 1969
"The Circle That Never Ends" anon, based upon Shari Lewis' "The Song That Never Ends"

Posting Date: 27 October 1997