Autumn

"I rise through the strength of Mi-cha-el, Light of the Sun, Radiance of the Moon, Splendor of Fire, Swiftness of Wind, Depth of Sea, Stability of Earth, Firmness of Rock. Mi-cha-el!"
- St. Patrick

September marks a new season replete with the start of school and many celebrations. The Fall Equinox took place last Friday, September 23rd, marking another seasonal turn in the wheel. This "holy" day is often associated with the gratitude for the bounty of the harvest as well as signaling a time to move inward as the light begins to diminish.
Michaelmas on September 29th is my favorite of all the Autumnal celebrations. I came to know this feast day when my daughter Eve was four, attending a Waldorf School. Michaelmas celebrates courage, the heroes journey and conquering our dark side, symbolized by the battle with the dragon. The stories tell of Archangel Michael coming to the aid of St. George, a brave knight, who slays or tames the dragon. This festival calls forth our inner light as nature goes into her winter sleep. It is the first of a series of seasonal celebrations of light.

Waldorf Education
Michaelmas at a Waldorf School on YouTube