Writing Brigit


Writing Brigit

Many years ago I wrote my first Brigit prayer. Poem. Blessing... I have been writing them ever since, but seldom publish them. Some are carefully researched and crafted, some are simple and straight from the heart. (Belated update: I did eventually publish a book called A Brigit of Ireland Devotional - Sun Among Stars. It contains many of my Brigit poems and prayers, essays, and resources.)

The prayers and blessings of my sisters in the Daughters of the Flame and other Brigit-loving women and men, living and long-dead, fill me with surprise and delight, as well.

I would like to share some of these writings with you.

Following is the one that signs off each of my emails, a reminder to guide my words and intentions with care when I write to anyone. It's as good a place to start as any.


Flame Offering

In the name of the three Brigits

I light the candle of my heart

May I offer it to everyone

gentle and steady

warm and bright



31 October 2016

“Booleying Time” by Mael Brigde






Booleying Time

she rests beside
their crooked hillside shelter
her sister’s breath
past woven walls
whistles
softly in
softly out

darkness   mist

hooves heavy on soft earth
black shapes barely seen
mutter
now and then emit
low complaint

summer night is fresh

skin tingling
she sings
sings to you to keep them
well and safe
to lull her fears and keep her
well awake

no wolves tonight

cows grow fat on mountain flowers
hides sleeken
udders swell
and every day
butter for her to eat

far below
mother only now is resting
father close beside her
and brothers on the straw

soon
little horned ones
we will go down to meet them
Brigit be your shield
from deer-pits and raiding men
falls from sudden cliffs

hush my darlings
don’t worry
valley grass grows long
there’ll be no repast of holly twigs
and fallen leaves
for you back home







Booleying—summer pasturage in the hills to allow the valleys to recover their growth of grasses it takes place from Bealtaine to Samhain; cattle from several herds of connected landholders may be booleyed in common by younger people, usually in single gender groups.

Osier—willow used in basketry and as wattles.

Image: This work has been released into the public domain by its author, Youngbohemian. This applies worldwide.

Poem: Copyright Casey June Wolf (2015).