Notes from Swannanoa finale: Housing first. Housing now.

After experiencing the challenges of the five months following Helene, I eagerly moved through the kaleidoscopic seasons, observing the early signs of change. I danced in the garden when I found purple dead nettle blooming, and I crowed with delight when the daffodils returned from the underworld.

Samhain, the Eternal Dance

As we gather and rejoice with our beloved ancestors and ancients during these uncertain times, may the lessons of Samhain grace our table with plenty, our chosen group of family and friends with blessings, and our hearts with much needed wisdom. As our ancients might remind us: are we living or are we being lived?

Classics of Pagan Cinema: Dancing at Lughnasa

“Pagan nonsense, celebrating the feast of Lughnasadh. This is the month of August. The feast of our lady’s assumption into heaven.” Meg Elison returns with a review of the 1998 Irish-American film “Dancing at Lughnasa,” which juxtaposes Catholic misery and Pagan joy.

The Twin Gates of the Turning Wheel

Across the globe, the power of the sun dances upon the magnetic field of the earth below, as the veils between the worlds grow thin. In the north, the hidden powers of life and nature rise into lusty fullness, while in the south a stark contrast, as the dread gate of death stands solemnly open.