I sit in the living room
on this last day of January.

Looking out of the window, I can see the sun
already trying to burn through the clouds
as spring awaits to take over winter.

Inside it’s cosy.
Inside it’s warm.

Wrapped in a knitted cardigan.
A cup of coffee in hand.
Poetry as my companion for the morning,
inspiration from the greats.

The coffee is fresh,
its scent lingering on the breath.
Its warmth hugs my body
and brings it to life.

In front of me sits my altar.

Adorned with a pink crushed velvet cloth, awaiting Imbolc.

My silver athame set to the right
shines bright in the daylight.
My crystal ball takes centre place.

Everything on this low table
is ceremonially placed.
Each item has its own home.

I feel joy and peace when I look at it.
Colours to match the season.
Soon it will ask for blues, greens, and purples — pastels for now.

Why crushed velvet?
Why so many crystals and metals?

Because they shine,
and shiny tickles my brain.

When they glisten in natural light,
when they flicker in candle flame,
when they still glint in moonlight,
my body feels their presence.

They make me feel whole and held,
like a best friend —
nourished, and nourishing in return.

There is peace in crystals
because they are nature’s gift.
They ask nothing of me,
and still they hold.
—Frost ❄️