Honoring Nature Spirits
On this day, when many are celebrating all things Irish in honor of St. Patrick, please honor the Nature Spirits.
Give them an offering. I usually give them wine, fruit, honey, chocolate, or anything that I think is exceptionally delicious. They also like music, poetry, and shiny things. You can build them a house. They don’t really need it; however, they greatly appreciate the effort.
St. Patrick’s claim to fame is trying to rid Ireland of the Fae, the Shining Ones, the Wild ones, the Faerie folk, the Pagans… those who were intimately tied to Nature and could not be controlled by the Church. This has left lasting damage to the well being of our Earth and has contributed to the perceived separation of humans and Nature.
Healing our connection with Nature and Nature Spirits is imperative at this time. We can see the destruction humans have caused and are only beginning to realize the consequences of our actions. Fortunately, we are awakening to our need of changing this pattern and re-membering our innate connection with Nature. The Nature Spirits are our best guides to help us navigate the changes and show us how to return to balance. We need them more than ever! (Plus, when we are in alignment with the Nature Spirits, our work generally becomes easier.)
Often people want to see these magnificent Beings. This really is not necessary. The Nature Spirits are able to sense us. What is most important is that we let them know that we want to be in partnership with them and we show them our Love and gratitude. In time, you will likely have some sense that they are there. However, simply by giving offerings, you are helping them to strengthen and encouraging them to return from hiding.
One important note, Nature Spirits are sensitive to pollution. This includes cigarette smoke, negative thinking, and of course, pesticides. So please be conscious of them when you are creating your environment.
“Let us ask forgiveness of the Earth
For all our sins against her:
For our violence and poisonings
Of her beauty.
Let us remember within us
The ancient clay,
Holding the memories of seasons,
The passion of the wind,
The fluency of water,
The warmth of fire,
The quiver-touch of the sun
And shadowed sureness of the moon.
That we may awaken,
To live to the full
The dream of the Earth
Who chose us to emerge
And incarnate its hidden night
In mind, spirit, and light.”
~ John O’Donohue
from “In Praise of the Earth” in To Bless the Space Between Us