SUMMER SOLSTICE

Midsummer's eve they covert appear
'pon sylvan hilltops from far and near,
unbeknownst to human, bird or beast,
for to assemble fair Áine's feast.

Diviners, sorcerers, radiant robed,
bearing gilded sceptres brightly lobed,
speak incantations salutory,
extol Summer in all her glory.

Gathered 'round fires this hallowed eve,
wreaths of St. John's Wort the Druids weave,
'neath the ancient oak an altar raise,
bestrew marigolds, chant Nature's praise.

Prayers they softly recite, heads bowed low;

flames the night bathe in a golden glow,
dragons, apparitions keep at bay,
evil spells cause to vanish away.

At dawn, Étaín her first grace bestows,
the firmament arcs as the day grows,
at zenith the shrine sacred kindles,
till eventide her light ne'er dwindles. 

"Brightest sun of this most blessed year,
longest day of light, laughter and cheer,
resplendent Goddess, the harvest bless,
banish from our domain all distress."

© 2014 Lily's Verse
Lilium Candidum

Image: SUMMER SOLSTICE MANDALA
Source: fineartamerica.com
Artist: Megan Manske