Samhuin

These days of forgetfulness, the modern world forgets the ancient meaning of Samhuin. The death of the natural world, the honoring of the ancestors, the finishing of old business and the beginning of the new. Hearth fires were extinquished while great bonfires were lit by druids to light the spirits way back to this world. A brand from the fires was taken home to renew the hearth fire for the year.

Wiccans and hippies have hijacked Samhuin while corporations have twisted the day into a just another consumer holiday. But those of us who know the meaning of the day will welcome the ancestors, end business, start business and keep the Modb barricaded in her cave for yet another year.

Few children come by the bruig for treats these days. The old neighborhood is barren of children and most parents take their children to the McMansionhoods where the treats are big and rich. Since I can't burn outside, I'll have a small fire indoors to celebrate the chilly evening.