The Hunter's Moon

I love the moon. It has an air of mystery to it and tonight is a full moon which only adds to the magic in the air. All full moons draw attention to themselves by the way they reign supreme over the night, so that each one has acquired at least one special name. These names date back to the Native Americans in the eastern and northern parts of North America, who had various names for the full moon during each month of the year. European settlers quickly adopted the moon names used by the Native American groups, though most people today are only aware of a few of those names.  Tonight’s full moon is called the Hunter’s Moon, Blood Moon, or Sanguine Moon. Many moons ago, Native Americans named this bright moon for obvious reasons. The leaves are falling from trees, the deer are fattened, and it’s time to begin storing up meat for the long winter ahead. Because the fields were traditionally reaped in late September or early October, hunters could easily see small prey that came out to glean from the fallen grains. Probably because of the threat of winter looming close, the Hunter’s Moon is generally accorded with special honor, historically serving as an important feast day in both Western Europe and among many Native American tribes.  Our Wiccan friends call this the Shedding moon or the Falling Leaf moon. It holds great reverence to many on a spiritual journey. Many believe that the veils between worlds are the thinnest on this night so pay close attention to any visions or messages received at this time. According to Wiccan lore those wishing to contact loved ones may wish to do so on this night as the bridge between worlds is easiest to cross. Whatever you choose to call it, full moon, Hunter’s moon, the big wind moon, moon when water begins to freeze, it really doesn’t matter, it's hard to ignore a full moon.  And so tonight some time after midnight when the moon is shining her brightest over me and illuminating the magic of the lake, I will go outside and sit on the lakeshore and take a few special moments to enjoy its beauty and of course to thank it for shining on my path.  Wherever you are, whoever you are, be sure to bask in the wonder that is the full moon. Marvel at the magic it casts upon the earth and remember that all throughout history, it has been an important part of our past.