Friday, January 11, 2013 will be the first new moon of the new year and that makes it a very special new moon. The moon will be officially the new moon at 11:44 a.m. (our time here in the Puget Sound) and it will be in the sign of Capricorn. Many people begin the new year with resolutions and making plans for the year to come, with the new moon right at the beginning of the new year it makes it an especially good time to look forward and getting new things started.
During the time of a new moon means a time of new beginnings. This period of time also represents the youthful side of the Goddess. The new moon represents the Maiden, who represents youth, change and fresh starts. This is a time for children to be named and dedications to be made. New moons make for a good time to move, start new projects or work new spells. It is also a good time to shed your past and refresh yourself so that you are prepared for things to come.
The new moon may be thought of as a time of learning due to its association with the young Maiden. Don't hesitate to try new spells or anything else new at this time. You may also want to set in motion any home protection spells or guardians. Although not all Pagans celebrate the new moon as the Maiden.
Many Wiccans celebrate the night of the new moon or dark moon by honoring the Crone aspect of the Goddess as this is seen by some as the final night of the Goddess rather than the first night of the Goddess. They focus on what they have learned in the past month and on banishing negativity from their lives. The night following the new or dark moon is when Wiccans that follow this counting will then start their new moon and Maiden count on the following day. There are other traditions as well that include working with the Crone until the official time of the new moon and then working with the Maiden after that time on the same day. As with many things in Paganism there is no right or wrong way.
In the Puget Sound are and in other area’s where a body of water is accessible, a great mini ritual to do is to go to the water, as it has cleansing qualities. Once your there you can (if warm enough) get in the water, wade in it, meditate in front of it, sprinkle it on you, or just walk along its edge. These are good moments to connect with the Goddess and God or nature. Allow the power of the new moon to fill you and renew you as you move forward.
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