Marya of the Wood
It has been a while since I have shared my offerings in this space. Along with finishing the details of my soon-to-be-released novel, I was off, deep in the woods, for some time, making videos and externalizing my sentiments.
This act of expression was vital and transformative. It was restorative for me to overlook the rivers, ponds, and mountains to sense all that has emerged and all that is long-planned. I was profoundly grieving land yet to be lost, processing all that we have collectively experienced, perhaps during our lifetime and that of our ancestors.
I put up a good fight and realized when it was time to drop the sword—my spoken word and pen. I finally accepted the loss of wildlife that, for countless years, visited this land throughout the seasons. It is essential to comprehend that their habitat and ecosystem remain no more. There is no reason for these creatures to stay. They have made a necessary and grand exit in the name of survival. I was responsible and grateful for sharing our land, God’s beautiful gift bestowed upon us, for care and safekeeping. I am a witness.
Somehow, many humans have forgotten or may not comprehend that all of us and this earth were created in perfection. When aware and awake, we perceive the truth of harmony as it resonates within and beyond. I firmly believe God knew what He was doing when He mastered all creation. It is humans who have altered all life and the planet itself. It is a tragic loss, a misunderstanding to exploit such power and miracles.
However, after breaking apart and putting the pieces back together to the best of my ability, I believe in accepting what’s meant to be. Knowing and remembering that the Creator has a hand in what unfolds sustains me. I will always cherish the memories of the bears, moose, coyotes, foxes, and various birds. They are here in spirit.
Perhaps when humans have completed their acts of greed, ignorance, and destruction, they will all return in the future. Oh yes, we have been told of the benefits, and nothing will change what is planned. I need not be re-informed of this as I comprehend the land and its inhabitants. I am aware of what has unfolded and what is long-planned. The forest and adjoining terrain can survive without the blow from the deadly axe and dousing of poison in the name of bettering their world and profit that results in such sacrifice. It has been so for thousands of years.
I learned a long time ago that sacrifice lacks love. It took time for me to comprehend that in its fullness. With grace and gratitude, it finally came into focus. My offering is not a call for debate. I am not up for it. I have learned lessons meant for me during this time. There is much wisdom that continues to emerge and present itself to me. I will never believe that I have “it” all figured out. No. I will only be reminded that I am where I am meant to be, to trust my instincts and intuition, and to pray for illumination where it is dark and shadowy.
Before penning this, I had gone outside to gather ground ivy. How powerfully symbolic to come across a dead snake, freshly beheaded, on my path. I have always appreciated snakes, now more than ever. Perhaps we should revisit Paradise, the Garden of Eden story, and reflect upon where we are now. Is Eve that far off? We must not overlook such things.
During this time of significant shifts and changes, I wish you well. May you stand in your truth and release fear intended to keep you from it.
With love and light,
Mj Pettengill