Spring is FINALLY upon us, and with the hatching of baby birds and the budding of trees comes one of my favorite Sabbats, Beltane, which took place on May 1. This Celtic word literally means ‘fires of Bel’ (aka Belenus, a Celtic sun god), and for some, it marks the conception of the sun/sun god, who will soon be born from the lunar mother. Of course, this is just one (oversimplified) description of Beltane mythology. Still, it does explain why Beltane is a fire festival, one that celebrates the coming of summer (and more sun), as well themes of reawakening and fertility.
One doesn’t need to believe in sun gods or spring maidens to appreciate/celebrate Beltane. In fact, other celebrations and religious holidays (not so coincidentally) occur on or around Beltane (looking at you, May Day and Easter), many of which have similar undertones. No matter what we believe or practice, whether we like it or not, we all exist in relationship with the earth, which means Beltane (and all of the Sabbats, really) can be meaningful for everyone. 
The cycles that occur in the natural world impact us too and can teach us so much if we slow down and listen. For the last several months, the earth has been at rest; have we also taken time to rest? Recently plants and animals have begun to stir, nest, and nurture. What is stirring within us that we should bring our attention to?
Each year, the coming of spring confirms what we knew all along: that even in the midst of darkness and chill, things continue to move beneath the surface; the opportunity for growth and renewal are never too far away.
These understandings of renewal (dare I say, resurrection) are not so different from what I believed when I practiced within a Christian community. However, my celebrations of renewal do look different now. In fact, I spent this Beltane jumping over flames, sipping flower wine, and dancing with my friends, our energy matching that of an earth reawakened, one ready for the burn of summer.
Though Beltane is over, the season of fire and spring remains, so I want to offer a tarot spread I created. I've been thinking a lot about the protection, purification, and passion fire provides, so to that end, I invite you to try this three-card tarot spread (details below), and if you don't have tarot cards, you can easily find websites that allow you to 'pull' cards.
Card 1 - What (or who) might you need to let go of to better protect yourself?
Card 2 - What opportunities might open up for you if you release and purify the stagnant energy you’re holding onto?
Card 3 - What under-explored or ignored passion should you turn your attention to this season?
I’d love to know how this spread worked for you and to hear your own spring reflections! In the meantime, may you have all the joy, energy, vision, and sun, you need in the coming days!
- Chelsea
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