An Ostara Tale

The morning was crispy and clear when her mother sent her out to gather firewood.  This was good because it was late winter she would have to travel far from their cabin to find the wood fall she needed. As the girl walked she moved into a pine forest thick with shadows and so she didn't notice as the storm rolled in. The dark clouds brought a bitter cold and snow began to fall in the form of fat wet flakes. As the young girl emerged from the forest she found large drifts had already begun to form and her path home was hidden from her eyes. 

Being of brave heart she set off in what she thought was the correct direction walking for quite some time. As she moved through the deep snow she noticed a flash of color in the great white expanse. Upon closer inspection she found a tiny bird seemily alive but nearly frozen. Her heart cried out for the tiny creature and she held it to her breast to warm it. Alas, this did no good as she herself was also freezing and nearing death. In her sorrow she cried out to the Great Goddess to help the bird. 

Blooming Redbud

Eostre was also wandering in the forest that day, pushing back the deep winter with green and flowers and so she heard the girls lament. She was busy with the business of turning of the wheel but something in the plea drew her to the girl. As she approached she saw the girl was near death and since she had shown no concern for herself and only pleaded for the bird the Goddess took pity on her and warmed them both. As the bird thawed it began to move and it became clear it could not fly. The girl said, "You haven't quite fixed it! Surely a bird who can't fly is soon to be eaten. Please can't you do more?" The Goddess was impressed by her daring request made on behalf of the small bird and so with a wave of her hand the bird was transformed into a winter hare with a snow white coat and long strong back legs. The hare hopped happily around the girl laying a trail of brightly colored eggs. The girl began to follow the hare and as she passed each egg it burst open and flowers and green sprang forth. The hare led her swiftly through the forest and back to her cozy cabin and her loving mother.

Tell the tales, spin the yarn, and remember their power. 

Blessed be, the wheel is ever turning.

~ A personal rendering of a classic tale