Freya's Blooming Bounty: The Enchanting Elder Trees
“Amongst the garden’s leafy nooks, in radiant rays and rain that rooks, a stately elder stands, its blooms a sight to behold. Its scent, a balm for hearts confined, recalls memories enshrined, of days long past and cherished, stories yet untold.”
In our enchanting forest, where nature's wonders abound, we are blessed with the presence of numerous elder trees. These majestic guardians of the woods not only offer their stunning beauty but also provide nourishment for the regal deer that roam our land. The royal deer, with their discerning palates, feast upon the ripe elderberries, leaving behind scattered seeds and the promise of new life.
In our forest garden, the presence of these elder trees fills the air with a sense of magic and wonder. Their blossoms attract bees and butterflies, painting the landscape with vibrant colors and a symphony of buzzing wings. The gentle rustle of leaves and the subtle fragrance of elderflowers create an atmosphere of tranquility and serenity, inviting us to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the beauty of the natural world.
As we gather the elderberries each year, we are reminded of the harmony between humans and wildlife, the interplay of consumption and regeneration. It is a delicate balance, one that teaches us the importance of sustainable practices and the profound connection we share with the Earth. In nurturing these elder trees, we become custodians of a legacy, guardians of a treasure that transcends generations.
In the realm of folklore and ancient traditions, there exists a figure known as the Elder Mother, a guardian spirit who watches over the elder trees and embodies their wisdom and healing powers. She is a symbol of nature's abundance and the profound connection between humans and the plant kingdom. Maybe she is even a left-over from old age belief in the goddess of love, Freya?
Thus - When harvesting from the Elder tree, it is an old custom to say a little spell:
Elder Mother, Elder Mother, Elder Mother fair, bestow upon me some of your sacred tree's care. And in return, I shall offer you a part of my essence rare.
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