A Goddess sister did a 3 Tarot card draw for Imbolc. The second card she drew, the one representing where we are right now, was the Hierophant. I usually cringe when this card is drawn. I equate it with conformity and following the herd. Its spiritual side makes me think of the patriarchal overtones in organized religion and in our society in general. My sister’s interpretation was so “right on” it rocked my world. It is still echoing in my mind and heart. This is part of her interpretation: “It is a call to action to get this card on the day of Imbolc as the Hierophant represents the oppressive nature in leadership. I am interpreting this to mean that the Goddess is saying we must care for our Mother Earth and all of her creatures. It is saying that these times are troubling to the point of being destructive. This puts on notice that we must hold our leadership to a higher standard of a duty to rule with compassion and concern for all and discard the ways of greed and corruption. Think about this in terms of an election year also.”
So, I’m eco-friendly. I recycle, I bring my own reusable bags to the grocery (some of which were made from old tee shirts that would probably be in a landfill right now), I use energy-saving light bulbs and I even use public transportation when it’s feasible. My dear kitties are both rescues. I support the local farmers by shopping at the local markets, I don’t use Styrofoam, and I bring my own mugs when I get coffee (okay, when I remember to). I love our Mother, and I show it…..but is it enough? Can what one person does (or doesn’t do) make a difference?
Yes, I do think one person can make a difference. So where do I go from here? Do I look into a hybrid car or even an electric car? Maybe I could talk my landlady into installing solar panels (probably not). Plant a tree, pick up litter….should I become a vegetarian, or even more eco-responsible (so I’m told) a vegan? How do I lessen my carbon footprint? Do I design my own clothes from what I find in thrift shops and consignment stores? (That actually does appeal to my creative side). Do I read the newspaper or magazines online? Should I make a donation to Greenpeace, PETA, or the Sierra Club?
I have much to think about….and I hope you do to. My decisions probably won’t be the same as yours, and that’s okay. Goddess knows, we are unique, so our answers to our Mother will be unique. Any positive change is a step in the right direction. Now is the time to make that change, the time to support our Sisters’ changes and time to Love Our Mother. “The Earth is our Mother, we must take care of Her.” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_pKnImIbcVI
