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Firepit Update Letters
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January 19, 2004 - Imbolc Update
The good news about this frigid winter weather is that it gives me a perfect excuse to sit at my computer, tending the “fire” at the Firepit. From where I sit, I look out at the bird feeders that hang from the birch and pine trees. A cluster of Mourning Doves brave the cold to peck at seeds that have dropped to the ground, scattered by the busy squirrels. They can’t afford to let the cold slow them down. Personally, I always look forward to Imbolc, when I can begin to look for the first signs that the ice is breaking. Drip by drip, the thaw begins.
The seeds of new life, although still buried, begin to stir in the dark. Just as the weather has drawn me indoors, so the season has drawn my attention into this time of gestational waiting. Since Yule, I’ve been sorting through old files and photos, and bringing up the ghosts of memories past, scattering them about like the squirrels at the feeders. Some of my most enriching memories have been recently been brought to mind. What shall these seeds bring forth?
This mood is reflected in this latest update to the Firepit. The cold hasn’t slowed me down, and I’ve added more than 20 new pages, including articles and pages to the photo albums. My biggest addition is the creation of a Site Map, which was a suggestion from several visitors. Thanks for the feedback! I’ve put a ton of quality winter time into this update, so I hope you enjoy it. Without further ado, here’s a brief explanation of the material added:
I’ve added several new articles to the Firepit at this update, including two more for the “Community Knowledge” section. I’m honored to present a thought-provoking article by Nataraj, called “Quantum Magic” which explores the connections between quantum physics and magick. “Cultural Piracy” by Christine D’Allaird explores the ideas behind an eclectic spiritual practice, and the role of cultural diffusion in enriching pagan paths. I’m honored to know both these authors, and grateful that I have their permission to share their words at the Firepit.
I’ve tossed a few more items into this update as well. I’ve added a prayer to the “Solstice Sun” to the Sacred Writings section. Originally written for the summer solstice many years ago, I found it at the Winter solstice, but saw that it still worked. I also recently found myself retelling the story of the snakes I found nesting in the bushes around the Firepit at Samhain, so I’ve added that odd tale to the Anecdotes chapter.
In the Fundamentals chapter, “Value of Traditions” explores the subject of eclectic spirituality, but makes the case that a Traditional path should be given serious consideration as an option for study. In the Commentary chapter, I’ve added “Human Cloning”, which is a brief exploration of the moral panic that some folks experience when considering the question of clones. I also found “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown to be an excellent book, so wrote a brief review and put it here.
The Humor chapter now has a list of reasons why you might be “Going to Hell”according to the Bible. I’ve also updated the links page to include a humor section. Stop by there for links to some very funny pagan comics and an animated cartoon.
The photo albums seem to be a popular addition to the Firepit, so I’ve expanded them somewhat. Here’s what’s new:
Altars album: “Yule Firepit” is a recent photo of our outdoor Yule altar. The weather cooperated and we burned our Yule log outdoors this year! “Working Altar” is one of the old photos I found. It’s a cluttered working altar circa 1990. *grin* Things haven’t changed much.
Fun album: “Flame in Bikini” is another old photo of me in a teeny polka dot bikini. You’ll just have to see it to believe it. “Flame Face” is a neat shot of the theatrical face paint that I had done at First Night. It’s a rather tribal look... *wink*
Tools album: I had a little photo shoot and added a bunch of new tool photos. My primary chalice and athame are featured in a symbolic “Great Rite” photo. Earth, Air, Fire, & Water are featured in “Elements”. I got a decent shot of my “Amethyst Wand”, and “Pendulum”, as well as one of my favorite training rocks, “Magnetite”.
Inspirational album: On a night when it got to -11F *brrrr* I took a picture of the “purple frost” that collected on my porch windows. I found photos of my visit to “Stonehenge”, and now have a photo page with four of my favorite shots. I also have a series of four photos of my most sacred place, “Camp Mohawk”, my woodland retreat and temple. I’m so glad I found these photos. I needed a bit of fresh inspiration!
As always, I hope that you enjoy browsing around the Firepit. Please stop by and enjoy your stay! It’s a virtual fire, to be sure, but it’s at least one good way to stay warm!
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