September 21st/22nd marks the time of the autumnal solstice. Named after the son of the Earth Mother Goddess (modrons) Son Mabon is the name used to celebrate this day. A day that sees us leave the summer and fall into the autumn months. It is one of the many festivals according to the Celtic Pagan wheel of the year that bridges night and day, dark and light season to season. A day of rebalance and transition, a chance to acknowledge our ever changing place in this ever changing universe. A time to reflect and realise that nothing stays the same and that all our attempts to hold on to the old one are futile. A time to embrace the laws of nature and realise that if we align ourselves with the natural rhythms of the earth we are able to step into the flow and live with more ease.
The autumn solstice serves to remind us that these laws allow light and darkness in equal measures. The warmth of the summer months become only a memory as we fade into cooler shorter days. Once again the darkness returns.
So this is truly a time to celebrate. To harvest the fruits of our labour to reflect upon that which we have cultivated and to make merry upon our efforts. To give thanks for all that has come together to nurture your mind, body and spirit.
Mabon is a time to appreciate rest after all the work of the harvest. A time to let go of all that was, all that is no longer needed and clear the way for renewal. This is the time where under the cover of darkness dormant seeds break open awaiting the light of the spring.
