Overnight we reach the astrological Lughnasadh, also know as Lammas.
One of the four great fire festivals of Celtic people, Lughnasadh celebrated the sacrifices made so people might flourish and prosper. This is not a harvest festival but one of first fruits. The difference is important.
In the modern world, we think of summer as abundant. For people who relied on a yearly round of moving herds from pasture to pasture, growing crops, and foraging, summer was chancy. Neither crops nor berries were ripe. It was the wrong time of year to slaughter herd animals. Even milk might be scarce after cows and ewes and nannies nursed their young.
Will we make it to harvest? When first fruits arrived, we’d know a ‘yes’ was likely. Definitely worth celebrating.
The Moon at 29 Cancer reinforces this awareness. In this final decan, we learn there is not enough for everyone to have everything. Survival depends on sharing with each other. Not hoarding.
The Moon opposes Pluto, reminding us of the darkness that surrounds us. Social safety nets are frayed and need tending.
The Lughnasadh Sun at 15 Leo squares Uranus, another wake up call that change is needed.
There’s a waning trine from the Sun to Chiron. Do we feel harmed when we’re required to care for the needs of others? We might. And we might ask ourselves about greater harms, both to society and to our souls, if we insist on our rights, our way.
Yes, this is a festival. One filled with gratitude, sharing and celebration. It’s good to remember, though, that the mood was not “Yay! We did it! We’re awesome!” Instead, it was more “Thank the gods and goddesses we made it this far. Let’s celebrate and then redouble our efforts to secure the harvest.”
We’re not out of the woods yet. Let’s stick together and help each other until we reach a place of greater safety. On the way, I will share with you.
Image adapted from Olli Kilpi
https://unsplash.com/photos/uI2eC2-MtDk