After the Tsunami

Happy April, everyone. They say that April showers bring May flowers, but the unfortunate truth in Calgary is that the “April showers” are frequently snowshowers. At times like this I often quip that “snow is just rain misspelled… demonstrable proof that some folks just shouldn’t do weather magick.” As we enjoy the lengthening days and the warming weather, I’ve been thinking about that Big Green Guy lately. In light of the disasters in Japan last month and the ongoing crisis, Gojira seems an appropriate metaphor, the destructive force of nature coupled with the dangers of nuclear energy. He’s been both villain and hero to the Japanese, but I think imagining him in defeat, whether wandering back into the sea from whence he came, or sprayed into submission by the children of Mosura, may be useful. I hesitate to send fiery energy Japan’s way; they’ve had enough of that already. In the work we do for Japan’s healing, it’s important to be focused rather than scatter the energy generally. Instead, concentrate on specific goals: that the dead will be recovered, that the radiation from the Fukushima nuclear plant will be contained, that the area of nuclear contamination be minimized. If you can, give directly to the high-profile aid agencies, like the Canadian Red Cross and Oxfam, for the practical end is important. Many employers have donation-matching programs, so use them if you can.

For those of you who have been asking, Margarian is over the initial shock of discovering she needs dialysis, and has pretty much decided on the peritoneal option, which suits her need for independence (for information, see http://www.kidney.ca/Page.aspx?pid=339 ). The next stop on the journey is an education session for the two of us on April 7. Mar has also obtained a nifty new walker to replace the loaner from the Red Cross, and is very happy with it.

Just a reminder that Evergreen is planning a Ritual Leadership Workshop for the weekend of May 13-15. Let me know if you’re interested in attending.

Congratulations to Danielle J., on the birth of her daughter Violet, on March 9.

April's Birthdays: Amanda B., Sheena Mac, Aislinn, Ayanna, and probably some of my Facebook friends. Also Margot Adler (April 16). Let me know if I’ve missed yours.

April Events: Note these events are listed for information purposes only. Dates and locations may be subject to change; see the source for details. If I’ve missed anyone and you’d like to add to this listing, please contact me.

Apr. 2: COGCOA Coffee Cauldron. Info (at) cogcoa (dot) ab (dot) ca

Apr. 3, 8:32 a.m.: New Moon. Fearn (Alder) lunar month begins.

Apr. 6, 7:00 p.m.: Crossroads “Trivia and Giggles” Meetup. Info: http://www.meetup.com/CALGARY-CROSSROADS/

Apr. 15-17: Body, Soul, and Spirit Expo at Stampede Park. Info: http://www.bodysoulspiritexpo.com/

Apr. 16: Alberta Wilderness Association Climb and Run for Wilderness at Calgary Tower. Info: http://www.climbforwilderness.ca/

Apr. 17, 8:44 p.m.: Full (Pink) Moon. Apr. 19, 7:30 p.m.: Calgary Witches’ Meetup, hosted by moi, in south Calgary. Info: http://www.meetup.com/Calgary-Witches

Apr. 21: Bliss.

Apr. 22: Earth Day. Mercury Retrograde ends.

Apr. 23, 7:30 p.m. sharp: COGCOA Beltane Ritual.

Apr. 29: Sacred Marriage of the Divine King-to-Be and His Consort.

May 1: Beltane

May 2: Federal Election. Please, please, vote! If in doubt, http://federal.votecompass.ca/ can help you see how your views relate to those of the major parties.

May 7-8: Calgary Rock and Lapidary Club Gem, Mineral and Fossil Show. Info: http://www.crlc.ca/

Blessings, Hergest