February New Moon: Convergence

Hello, all – There’s a LOT happening with this month’s new moon: Ramadan, Mardi Gras, and Chinese New Year, for starters. It’s also a new dawning of the Age of Aquarius. Oh, yeah, and a solar eclipse. My seership doesn’t focus so much on prediction, but wow does this moment feel like OPPORTUNITY. This is the bottom of a breath. The moment before movement. So do with that what you will. 

1. Overall Theme: Aspen, for courage. Again. Yes, Aspen was in the first position in January too, calling us to courage. Taking even the smallest action can dispel the anxiety that often paralyzes, and even a trembling arm can hold a shield. 

2. Potential & Allies: Birch, for first steps. Building on the theme of Aspen, Birch is a reminder that we don’t need to be able to see every step toward success. We just need to take that FIRST step, and keep going one step at a time. . 

3. Static & Obstacles: White Poplar, for detachment. I think the caution here is two-fold. First, there is the risk of over-intellectualizing our circumstances. Theory will only carry us so far; what’s needed is action, and that takes getting involved. Second, the temptation to “other,” well, other people. Disconnection from our fellow humans, or denying their humanity, is the sin. (Was that Terry Pratchett? Maybe.) Even more difficult is to reckon with our own shadows in those creating the suffering. Remember, this month is about convergence.

4. Letting Go: Ivy, for restriction. Last month, Ivy was something to cultivate, binding ourselves to each other and what matters most. But this ogham has a shadow side, too, and I think it’s referencing to hold tightly to structures and practices that are harmful just because they are familiar. The purpose of a system is what it produces. And sometimes we have to let the system fall apart to rebuild something entirely new. 

5. Helping Grow: Rowan, for protection against the unseen. One of the ways Rowan accomplishes that is by heightening our ordinary senses. Can we discern what is real and what is not? Can we see clearly through distractions and distortions? Are we listening for the moment when everything has the potential to create harmony instead of dissonance?

I wish I had something more profound to say. Or maybe just a few days to figure out what else this reading might MEAN, you know? I don't know. With more time, I’d just ramble more. 

In the same moment things are falling apart, people are coming together to support each other. I think, this month, I’ll hold onto courage and keep taking one step at a time. 

What else do you see in this reading Please let me know, and feel free to share with any friends you think might get something out of it too. 

Bright blessings,

Nicole

~ Nicole (Nikki, sometimes Saffron Hare) is founder and general manager at Nine Fires Press. Her Druidic practice has included solitary, small-group, and congregational worship, with a focus on liturgy and seership. She loves to fall in love with bad ideas.