Thursday Poem -Treading the Gate

Approach the gate as a pilgrim, a seeker,

wear sturdy boots for walking,

go cloaked and hooded against the wind,

blackthorn staff and lantern in hand,

an abundance of candles in your pack

for the long journey ahead.

Bring gifts and votive offerings for those who

dwell beyond the ancient gate, bundles

of sage, clear water, kindling, earth and salt,

bring flasks of tea, incense and bread,

tales and laughter to share around the fire

with those you will meet along the way.

Travel light and make your journey by the moon,

taking the owls, true kindred, as your fierce

and tender companions, feel their breath

along your own wings, share in their dark

and mindful wisdom as you flow.

Let the song you sing as you are questing

be your own sweet music, and the stories

you spin by the fire in the nights ahead be the

narratives of your own wild and shining life, this

journey you are making into an unknown land.

Listen to the night and be content, for you are not alone —

around you is a vast and singing throng,

the very stars are singing with you as you go.

Cate

This was written at the gate of a year long past, the words emerging from my sconce
almost entirely as they appear here.  They are good words for journeying, and
I am surprised I have not posted them here in the last year or two.