Paper White Narcissus

Imbolc

February first, a great spring festival

for the Celts, who waited

through a tired winter

to face the fresh air

of a new season

and sweep out winter’s lint.

Bellies now full with

milk from sheep’s freshening,

after their lambs were born.

A time to look forward

to the plowing of fields

and first planting of seeds.

Lainie Senechal