Stone on the Belly: October 2021

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

Songs of the Oystercatcher: Honouring Brihde through the Wheel of the Year by Heather Upfield

25 October 2021

"Prayer for the Dead" by Mael Brigde

Prayer for the Dead

dear Brigit

I lay my loved one down

a last time

he is three days dead

we have wailed and wept

we have sung and laughed

we have given thanks

we have cried out in anger

we have given thanks

bless my loved one on his journey

let his coracle be light and leaping

on the waves

salmon his companions

and the great whales

to guide him to his home

Image: "Victor James Arnott, July 2021" by his sister, Mael Brigde.

SoundCloud: This poem is sung here. I no longer pronounce Brigit's name as I have in this song. I explain why I now say "Bridget" here, in "Part the Second" which you will find if you click on Read More.