Happy first day of Autumn! 🍁🍂
This is year we will also be graced with September’s full moon on the autumnal equinox, called the corn moon or the harvest moon.
I also discovered that the autumn equinox marks the Wiccan celebration of Mabon. This is the celebration of the second harvest, where we give thanks for the crops we grow, the well-fed animals, and farmers have a chance to gage how well their families will be fed this coming winter. An altar may be set up with common harvest crops, like apples, grapes, corn, gourds and pumpkins. While I am not Wiccan or Pagan, I do find more meaning in holidays that celebrate the seasons and Mother Nature.
From what I understand, a Mabon celebration includes a feast with family and perhaps apple picking. Apples and grapes are a common symbol of the second harvest. Another common practice is to conduct rituals that give thanks to the gods and goddess for a bountiful harvest and to restore balance on a day that has equal parts day and night.
No matter how you celebrate the beginning of Autumn, be sure to take time and give thanks for your blessings. Whether it’s health, family, harvest, finance, whatever, there is always something to be thankful for. Celebrate it; cherish it.
Photo credit: Flickr user Colleen https://www.flickr.com/photos/pearlshelf/8726509704