As a Druid, the summer solstice is very important to me.
The summer solstice is a very spiritual time of year for many folks, the longest day, the shortest night, but in some traditions it is also the time of a great battle between two mythical kings, representing the changes found in nature!
The Oak king, who rules from December 21st to June 20th battles the Holly king, who rules from June 21st to December 20th. But it's the night of June 20th where the battle begins. The two kings approach each other, and prepare for battle. As they circle each other, the Holly king is determined to win the crown on top of the Oak kings' head. They draw out their sharpened swords, glinting in the moonlight and the battle begins. Swords crash down on shields, the might of two powerful kings fighting to rule over the lands. Just before sunrise, the Holly king defeats the Oak king, who bows before him and hands him his crown of Oak leaves. The Holly king takes this crown, the leaves magically turn to Holly, and places it on top of his head. It's now sunrise, the shortest night has passed and the people cheer for the Holly king and the rising of the sun.
The solstice is all about the passing of time, the rising of the sun, giving thanks to the fruitfulness of the earth and a continuing health for loved ones. Blessings, mead and food is passed round.
It's time to celebrate.
Solstice Blessings.
Maxine - 600659