Blessings upon our Bright Lady Brighid,
Fiery Arrow of inspiration, landing in
singing souls of poets, igniting flaming
words of worship, love and adventures,
satire when needed to remind the mighty
of their many flaws.
Comfort to mother Brighid, who lost
her son Ruadan to gruesome warfare.
She raised the first keening in
memory of Eire, she now comforts
mothers and others bereaved.
Strong are her arms, loving her heart.
Matron of poets and healers this Lady,
keeper of fire, she shares holy flame
with forges of those who smith glowing metal,
also bestows quenching water for those
who thirst for sweet peace,
disdain foolish warfare.
On Imbolc Brighid presides o’er lactating ewes,
moreover she strengthens the bodies of all
who give birth, most divine of midwives.
She brings forth snakes of great wisdom,
glistening serpents of holy renewal,
who coil ‘round her arms,
aside comely breasts.
Lovely she is, goddess of our
forebears, pale her skin, sunset hue
are her tresses, beauty in her eyes,
strength in her frame, steadfast in
justice, strong loving mother.
Praise to this Lady who lights paths in nighttime,
honor to her who gives aid in plenty,
helps healers, giving them knowledge of balance,
gives fire to those who craft beauty for all,
with Imbas to poets, who soar on her words.
She knows deep grief, gives succor to mourners.
She sees us and loves us.
We see and love her in return.
Homage to our shining Bright Lady.
~ Wry Welwood
May 2023.
Brigid or Brighid came to be known as St. Bridget in the Church. Both figures give aid to poets, healers, and smiths; both are associated with water, fire, domestic animals, and fertility. The image above the poem is often referred to as St. Bridget’s cross or Brighid’s cross.
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