Samhain 2024 : Demeter & Persephone

As fall takes hold and begins the journey into winter, we are reminded of the journey of Persephone. There are many versions of this story, some strongly feminist, some very patriarchal. Although we need to use critical thinking in learning these stories, there are ideas that shine through no matter what the version.

The cherished daughter of Demeter, Persephone is kidnapped to the underworld to be the wife of Hades. Her journey is long and traumatic, and she draws on her agency and wits to survive and eventually escape.

What stands out at this time of the year is Demeter’s grief, righteous rage and determination to secure her daughter's return. Demeter demonstrates her power as she confronts Persephone’s father and seeks counsel from her sister Goddesses, especially Hecate and Baubo. Demeter exercises her power by vowing that the world will remain barren and cold until her daughter is returned. And indeed, she follows through - crops die, the fields turn brown, cold and nothing grows.

Demeter demonstrates the power of righteous rage to affect change. Demeter’s strength, determination and connections with her sister Goddesses show us the power of our rage to steer the world towards what we all know is possible; a world where peace, freedom, safety and equity for all blooms.

In the coming quiet times, what drives your determination to affect change both internally and externally?