Savouring Spring Equinox

Dawn circle atop Glastonbury Tor

The Vernal Equinox of 20th March 2012 was an exuberant entree into Spring. launching the mood and intention of new growth and beginnings which will carry us us through to Beltane at the start of May, when the town of Glastonbury explodes in a riot of colour and drama and energy.





The weather colluded in the unfoldment; as we approached equinox, the balance point between light and dark, a week of misty, cold weather with flat grey skies set the tone, a final pause and winter breathing its final breath before spring, sunlight and warmth reclaimed the skies.

Celebration, ceremony and ritual mark all turning points in nature's cycle here in Glastonbury. With pride and conviction I assert that we do it well. Locals show up to organise and participate and the town draws in visitors from all over the UK and other nations too, because it is so special.

Well head dressed for spring

Some began at dawn; climbing the Tor and sharing a sunrise meditation. I opted for the Chalice Well which had free entry as is usual on special days. I spent a good while seated by the cascading red waters in the lower garden, catching sunlight on my face and watching visitors arriving at the gatehouse above.

Eventually I was joined by two close friends and we decided to enjoy the sacred fire quietly rather than taking part in the midday meditation, having first visited the beautifully dressed wellhead to pay my respects to the water in a silent prayer of gratitude.





In the afternoon a different type of celebration, serendipitously a housemates birthday meant that our living room was filled with balloons, cake, ice cream and gifts and also joy, laughter and sharing.

A few days later I adjusted my clocks to British Summer Time -  Spring forward, fall back is a neat way to remember. Silently and efficiently my phone and laptop reset themselves, impressive!

This first light evening of the year was graced with glorious sunlight and steady blue skies, an invitation to be outdoors with friends and make the moment last.  I visited a friend who has just relocated to a pretty cottage enviably located a stone's throw from the Chalice Well.

Radiant sunset

It was a supper party that almost happened outside. Sitting on the daisy spotted lawn with views across the levels, it was a mellow moment.

As the sun slowly set before us and there was talk of a building a fire.... Maybe next time. Sharing around a fire with a group of close friends is as good as it gets for me and it was satisfying to feel enthusiasm and excitement for good times to come.

 
We ate inside, an abundance of home cooked vegetarian food. After the meal, as daylight fell away, gently illuminated by tall candles, stories began to emerge; remembrances of old Glastonbury,  the brickworks of Sandpits lane, the gasworks of Northload Street. Tales from the early days of Glastonbury Festival, lovingly embroidered and told with great fondness and animation.

Here was a very special moment, a de facto family gathering, a soul family, entertaining each other in a simple, time honoured and tribal way and we were keeping our history alive. With this understanding I paused to savour this point of connection and store it in my bank of positive memories.

Back home the night skies were still clear, revealing the moon and stars in perfect clarity. A slender silver crescent highlighted by bright Venus, trined by Jupiter. As I stood  in awe, a text came through on my phone, an artist friend was also star gazing, 

Check it out, a symbol of hope and love for humanity!

Aho to that!

Peaceful blessings

Jennifer

Calendar of events at Chalice Well  www.chalicewell.org.uk/


Photo credits:

Tess Jennings dragonet66@hotmail.com
Amanda Gazidis www.amandagazidis.com