The Hindu name for this beautiful Full Moon is Kartik Poomima, and it commemorates the end of a four-month period during which Vishnu sleeps. It is also the birthday of Vishnu’s fish-incarnation, Avatar. It is also said to be the day when Krishna danced rasa with Radha and worshiped her. In North America, the Full Beaver Moon takes its name from Algonquin tribes who knew it … [Read more...]
Full Hunter’s Moon
Following last month's Harvest Moon is the bright and beautiful Full Hunter’s Moon. The harvest is already done. The fields are chaff and stubble, the deer are fattened and slower afoot; the foxes and other small animals that go gleaning in the sweet rubble are easily observed. Indeed, this Moon illuminates a hunter’s paradise, and our ancestors anticipated no other Full Moon … [Read more...]
September Harvest Moon
When I farmed for many years in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, we always looked forward to September’s Full Harvest Moon as the reward for our spring and summer-long labors. The last of our crops were ready for harvest, and we could reflect (if all had gone well) on work done for the greatest good. At that time, we felt so connected to the land and the passing seasons, and the … [Read more...]
Full Thunder Moon
Delight in the fullness of summer! On my early morning walks, I revel in the cool and lively chi, a gift before the approaching heat. The sun is sending waves of golden, honey-drenched light everywhere. I can feel the vibrant cosmos pouring into me as I roam through my neighborhood accompanied by the busy hum of bees. This time is also known as the Full Buck Moon (because … [Read more...]
Full Strawberry Moon
This poem by Robert Graves feels so appropriate for June's Full Strawberry Moon--when wild strawberries burst with divine flavor--unlike the often tasteless, hothouse berries found in our grocery stores. Wild Strawberries Strawberries that in gardens grow Are plump and juicy fine, But sweeter far as wise men know Spring from the woodland vine. No need for bowl or … [Read more...]
