Ground Hog's Day: A Goddess Connection

Groundhog Day dares delight February 1, 11:48 PM by Marlena Rich, Spiritual Living Examiner With the terrific 1993 comedy Groundhog Day starring Bill Murray still taking the forefront on this day, there is actually spiritual content behind the celebration. Preceded by Imbolc, one of four festivals of the Irish calendar, Imbolc represents the return of the life-giving forces of spring. [Traditionally, Imbolc was celebrated on February 2, half-way between the the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox]. Originally a pagan holiday dedicated to the goddess Brigid, the goddess of poetry, healing and smith craft. She is associated with holy wells, sacred flames and healing. The lighting of candles and fires represents the return of warmth and increasing power of the sun over the coming months. Via Christian influence it was changed to a dedication to St. Brigid and the Virgin Mary. Today we know that the groundhog’s determining the coming of spring based on seeing his shadow or not is 75-90% correct. What will it be this year? Is anyone thinking spiritually? I am personally focused on gratitude for the sacred warmth of the sun working its magic with the coming of spring blossoms and new life.