Thursday Poem - Treading the Gate

Approach the gate as a pilgrim, a seeker,

wear sturdy boots for walking,

go cloaked and hooded against the wind,

blackthorn staff and lantern in hand,

an abundance of candles in your pack

for the long journey ahead.

Bring gifts and offerings for those who

dwell beyond the ancient gate, bundles

of sage, clear water, kindling, earth and salt,

bring flasks of tea, incense and bread,

bring tales and laughter to share around the fire

with those you will meet along the way.

Travel lightly and make your journey by the moon,

taking the owls, true kindred, as your

fierce and tender companions, feel

their breath along your own wings, share

their dark and mindful wisdom as you flow.

Let the song you sing as you are questing

be your own sweet music, and the stories

you spin by the fire in the nights ahead

be the narratives of your own wild and shining life,

this journey you are making into an unknown land.

Listen to the night and be content, for you are not alone —

around you is a vast and singing throng,

the very stars are singing with you as you go.

Cate (me)

This somewhat older poetic effort of mine always seems
to me to be a good poem for Imbolc/Candlemas, and so it is
making another  appearance here.