The Winter Solstice is just nine days away. Which means I’ve been working with the energy of Ehwaz ( ᛖ ) the whole of 2022. This is my third year working with one Rune in particular, in order to deepen my connection and further my understanding of the Runes, since I work with them daily. This practice is part of my MidGardening Witchery – the moniker I’ve given my spiritual practice. Regardless, part of being a Witch is that you are always learning. That’s exactly what Ehwaz taught me this year: keep learning.
And I did learn. I deepened my knowledge of astrology, my Craft, and permaculture.I took chances, I wouldn’t likely have without Ehwaz at my side. I learned that a shot-in-the-dark book pitch could absolutely turn into a deal. I invested in my writing in new ways, securing a mentor that feels like the big sister I never had. I started a Patreon, that now is filled with so much community, I could cry. It helped me through some challenging times with family illness and allowed me new insights into the skills I’ve developed to keep my composure even in the hardest of times. Ehwaz reminded me of the goodness that self-compassion can bring, not just self-care.
I connected with new and different people, places, and activities. Joined in new projects. Was invited as guests on podcasts I respect. I found new worth in my life experience. I embraced the healing towards my inner child and have now moved on to heal the wounded inner teenager. I strengthened the harmony in my marriage. I repaired worthy relationships and let go of those that had passed their season. I even developed deeper bonds with the animals here at the covenstead. I also connected with my ancestors in new ways, which helped me understand my Fetch, allowing me to weave that Wyrd, that much more expertly.
Because Ehwaz is in Tyr’s aett, it made me examine the things I am doing to provide myself the nurturing of my intellect, my spiritual practices, and the understanding of my place in the world. I recognize where cleverness, like Tyr, is good, and where I need to invest in the strength of my body. Justice and what that looks like in my life has been a huge theme over this year and I’m curious to see if that continues as not all “victories” have come through…yet.
I wasn’t sure what to expect from Ehwaz. I mean, it means horse and I have a long tradition of not really digging horses and vice versa (although I have a plan to change that). But like all Runes, Ehwaz was more than its mundane meaning. It was a big, fat spiritual teacher, for which I’m grateful.
For 2023 I’ll once again be choosing a Rune of the year; but I plan to do that as part of my calendar new year’s rituals and observations. Another blog post to follow to give you all the details on that. For now the Blog will be kind of silent until after the Yuletide. This is a time for planning, rest, and celebration. Besides, there’s a book deadline I’m working towards. Until then, I hope you have the brightest and merriest of holidaze.
Did you do a Rune for the year? If so, what did you learn?