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| This is a cool bulletin posted by a new friend of mine. Thought it was pretty cool and wanted to share. |
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In ancient times the summer solstice was one of the most universally celebrated solar festivals around the world.
For these agriculturally based societies, it was very important to watch the skies, the changing of the seasons, to know when to plant, and when to harvest.
On this, the longest day of the year, the sun was at the peak of it's power, manifested in flourishing crops and livestock. It was a time of great feasting, a celebration of the abundence that the gifts of the sun had brought them.
Then, the people believed that every rock, every tree, had a life force of their own, they saw the sun as a living entity that blessed their daily lives.
Just a sampling of some solstice lore and traditions:
Some believed that on this day, the Sun God died, to be reborn on the eve of the winter solstice.
Midsummers eve was considered a time of great magic, contact with the fairy realm was easier on this night.
Certain herbs picked at midnight, brought luck, and protected against ill fortune. Considered one of the best times to make love charms.
Bonfires were lit to help the sun change it's course in the sky, burning wheels were rolled down hills, flaming discs were hurled at the sun, and celebrants jumped over the fires for purification and good luck.
Bless you all, and have a happy day! | ..TABLE>
4:24 AM
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