Goddess~A~Day

Bodmin Riding (Wales)

Habonde

Themes:  Abundance; Joy; Health; Fertility; Luck; Magic; Cleansing

Symbols:  Ale; Fires

About Habonde~  In Celtic tradition, Habonde is a witchy goddess who represents abundance:  an abundance of joy, health, fertility, and luck.  Customarily, people honored her by dancing around magical ritual fires whose smoke was said to purify both body and soul.

To Do Today~  On the first Monday in July, people in Wales prepare for a lunch of ale brewed eight months ago.  This is taken joyfully around town and shared to bring joy, prosperity, and longevity to everyone, courtesy of the goddess and the local brewers' guild.  If you're a home brewer, this is an excellent day to make ritual beer or wine, both of which have to boil on the hearth, a symbol of Habonde.  As you work, stir clockwise to draw positive energy your way.  When your schedule's too hectic for this, pour yourself a small glass of beer (you can use the nonalcoholic kind), and lift it to the sky, saying,

Habonde, bring abundance.  Habonde, health and luck bring.

When through my lips this liquid passes, let my soul sing!

Drink expectantly.

Lighting any fire source honors Habonde and draws her attention to areas where you feel her energies are needed.  Light a candle at home (or light the stove for a moment, or the fireplace).  And at the office?  Just light a match (make sure it's allowed by company rules, or go to the smoking lounge)!

By Patricia Telesco~From "365 Goddess"