When I still lived in Massachusetts, I commuted to Boston every day on the Red Line. Every winter I would shiver on the station platform waiting for a train. Before I could hear one coming, a tendril of light would always shine against the wall of the tunnel before the incoming train would screech and turn the corner. That little light was always the sign that the wait was over. That’s essentially what Imbolc celebrates, the hints of spring emerging in the second half of winter that tell us the wait for warm weather will be over soon. Originally a pagan festival associated with the goddess Brigid, it was later celebrated as a christianized festival for Saint Brigid. The Goddess Brigid was known for having fiery red hair and a flaming sword, and was said to visit homes on the eve of the holiday. To earn her blessing, people would leave her offerings by making a bed for her and leaving out food and drink. Clothing would be left out for her to bless....
Everyday Strange 