May Days

The start of May has long been associated with the height of spring and the libidinous, hopeful, riotous behavior appropriate thereto. In Celtic Cultures this is Beltane - a time for bonfires and drinking and dancing. In the 19th and early 20th centuries in America and Europe May Day was a labor movement focal point. On May Day we remind ourselves that in the righteous order of things everything belongs to everyone. There are no masters and kings. Workers deserve their bread, and their roses too.

The very name of May evokes possibility. It speaks not of what is or what has been, but of what could be and what ought to be. It invites you to demand the impossible, and to believe that all the tomorrows are yours.

On the church calendar May falls during Eastertide, while the power of the Resurrection is tangible in our midst and the future seems assured. We are preparing for Pentecost, for a rebirth of a global movement of solidarity and compassion. We are praying, Come Holy Spirit, and we are planting the seeds of justice and we will keep doing so until we all get free together.

May the flowers of abundant hope in a joyful future bloom for you this month.

Illustration by Portland artist N. O. Bonzo: https://nobonzo.com/about/