Contest--In the Spirit of Mabon

WELCOME TO MY CONTEST IN THE SPIRIT OF MABON!

Some History about Mabon:

Mabon is very much like Thanksgiving. Most of the crops have been reaped and abundance is more noticeable than ever! Mabon is the time when we reap the fruits of our labor and lessons, both crops and experiences. It is a time of joy, to celebrate that which is passing (for why should we mourn the beauty of the year or dwindling sunlight?), looking joyously at the experience the year has shared with us. And it is a time to gaze into the bright future. We are reminded once again of the cyclic universe; endings are merely new beginnings.


Since it is the time of dying sun, effort is also made to celebrate the dead with joyous remembrance. It is considered taboo to pass a burial site and not honor the dead. Natural energies are aligned towards protection, wealth, prosperity, security, and boosting self-confidence. Any spells or rituals centered around balance and harmony are appropriate.

The tale of Mabon (Modron), the Welsh God, (the "great son of the great mother"), also known as the Son of Light, the Young Son, or Divine Youth, is celebrated. The Equinox is also the birth of Mabon, from his mother Modron, the Guardian of the Outerworld, the Healer, the Protector, the Earth. Mabon was taken after he is a mere three nights old (some variations of the legend say he is taken after three years). Through the wisdom of the living animals -- the Stag, Blackbird, Owl, Eagle and Salmon -- Mabon is freed from his mysterious captivity. All the while Mabon had rested within his mother's womb; a place of nurturing and challenge. With strength and lessons gained within the magickal Outerworld (Modron's wom, Mabon is soon reborn as his mother's Champion, the Son of Light, wielding the strength and wisdom acquired during his captivity.

Also, (from a variation in legend) the Equinox is the day of the year when the god of light, Lugh, is defeated by the god of darkness, Lugh's twin and alter-ego, Tanist. The night conquers day. The tales state that the Equinox is the only day which Lugh is vulnerable and the possibility of his defeat exists. Lugh stands on the balance (Autumn Equinox-Libra) with one foot on the goat (Winter Solstice-Capricorn) and the other on the cauldron (Summer Solstice-Cancer). He is betrayed by Blodeuwedd, the Virgin (Virgo) and transformed into an Eagle (Scorpio).

You can get more history regarding aspects, elements and such here:

http://dragonbluespoetry.com/Mystikal%20References/Mabon1.htm

The Contest:

What I am looking for:
I want great visuals. I want to see, hear, taste, smell, feel all parts of this holiday. Not just celebration and festivities but a reverence for the Earth and her abundant gifts relayed to me in poetry, short story or essay form.

The Rules:

Pre-writes or new in this contest as long as it stays with the spirit of the holiday.

No limit on entries each author may submit.

No restrictions on form or length.

Your work MUST be titled.

Obvious Spelling and Grammar errors will be noted. Please use spellcheck as it really is your friend.

I will not hesitate to remove entries that contain:
Denigrating or insults to other belief systems
or Proselytizing

Honorable Mentions may be determined for more at time of judging and will be at my discretion for award amounts.

Have fun and enjoy the learning experience or sharing of your own experiences with us during this Blessed Holiday in the Wheel of the Year. If you have any questions, please ask.

I look forward to reading your entries!