Hail Litha!
On June 21st the Wheel of the year turns to Litha, also known as the Summer Solstice, a midsummer sabbat in which we celebrate the longest day and shortest night of our year. The Sun God, appearing as the Oak King is at the peak of his virility and the Goddess is visibly pregnant with child as we enjoy this lush, greenery and flower-filled, fertile time of year. But the Oak King will soon be overtaken by his twin, the Holly King, as this longest day passes into the darkness of night. After Litha the days become shorter drawing us progressively into the Dark.
But for now let’s celebrate!!! What better way to do so than to rise before dawn and put on clothing that exemplifies the colors of the sun. Head outside just before the sun comes up and greet the rising sun as it ushers in this longest day! In addition to rising with the sun let me share a few other ways in which you can honor this summertime sabbat. So pack a picnic and head outside!
This is a great day to watch nature, the bees are busy pollinating, so place yourself amongst the flowers and enjoy the “music” of the bees. Perhaps you may decide to make yourself a crown of flowers in honor of the Goddess, all you need is easily obtained at a craft store. You’ll need some wire, wire clippers and florist ribbon initially. Then head outdoors to gather fresh flowers, twigs, leaves or herbs. As you place your newly crafted crown upon your head you may feel like dancing under the beams of the brilliant sun. By all means dance on!
On your porch or windowsill you can place a large glass jar of water in the sunlight or make yourself some sun tea by placing several tea bags or loose herbs in a muslim bag in a large jar of filtered water. At the days end you will have a sun-kissed tea or water to consume, thereby drinking in the generous rays of the sun’s energy. If you like to craft, consider making a sun-catcher that you can hang up outside on a tree branch or inside on a window to capture the rays of the sun. Use sea glass, glass beads, crystals, anything that will pick up the rays of the sun and sparkle. Feathers may also add color and texture. As you craft, do it with intention, weaving into it your dreams and hopes for this upcoming summer season. If you have crystals that you use for healing work, place them in the sunlight to be super charged by the energy of this day.
And don’t forget the fairy folk! On this day the trouping of the fairies takes place. They are known to migrate across countries, stopping at homes gathering offerings of food and drink as they journey onward. Unwrap small pieces of chocolate and leave them in strategic places for these small winged ones to gather in their travels. You’ll find they love chocolate so don’t be surprised that when you check the areas on the following day, the treats will be nowhere to be found. They will have been scooped up by the fairies.
As the longest day slowly retreats into the night, a bonfire is the perfect way to reflect upon the Summer Solstice. In days of old when one jumped over the bonfire the height of growing wheat would be determined, based upon how high the celebrant jumped over the fire. Jump if you wish, but jump high!
If you are outside alone or with friends respectfully gather elements from nature to create a Litha altar. Afterwards conduct your own ritual to honor the Goddess and the God on this sacred day. As you feast after ritual, solitary or with friends, sit by the fire and enjoy a cup of honey mead or hot tea, what a perfect respite for this longest day.
