Ilanaaq the Inunnguaq,

The 2010 Vancouver Olympics and some of the athletes have embraced Pagan cultures' symbols and designs. For a more in-depth read on that--please visit my good friend, Riverwolf. In this post I'd like to write about the logo for this Olympics named, Ilanaaq the Inunnguaq. The Inunnguaq are statues made from rocks stacked together to create the form of a man by the Inuit native peoples who live in the vast Canadian, Arctic lands. The word, "Inunnguaq" means, "Immitation of a person."

To these nature based/Pagan peoples these statues served as steadfast guides posts of direction when walking the vast white horizon. It would seem easy to get lost in such an all-white, monochromatic landscape and these large, contrasting gray stone guardians seem like Arctic lighthouses and landmarks for navigation as the Inuit follow the herds. Over time the Inunnguaqs' welcoming arms standing straight out from the body gave the impression of a being forever ready to offer a hug. Thus, they came to symbolize friendship and hope that even the harsh Arctic weather would not hinder the Inuit people.

The 2010 Vancouver Olympic Winter Games emblem called Ilanaaq is a contemporary interpretation of the Inunnguaq. I like these "stone huggers" and might have to make my own small version for my altar. These stone men are some of the oldest objects placed by humans throughout the Arctic and are sometimes used to designate the memorial of a deceased loved one. If I wasn't going to be cremated, I'd want a small Inunnguaq as a memorial stone on my grave. It would sure beat the same-old boring headstones used by most people.These stone guides remind me of Stonehenge in England, which might be why I'm so attracted to them because I am enthralled by the giant stone circle at Stonehenge. Rocks in general are sacred objects for me as they symbolize the durability of Mother Earth--mountains for example are her backbone. Their hard, strong and tough properties make it a powerful sign of endurance, safety and protection.

-Stay green-

Saint Valentine's Day.

Did you know that today is the day we celebrate a murder? Yep, Valentine's Day is in honor of a martyred priest. Doesn't exactly bring to mind romance now does it? Valentine was a Christian priest in second century Rome, which was basically like being a turd bobbing in the punch bowl at a party because Rome at this time was a Pagan stronghold. He angered the locals with his preachin' and was arrested and interrogated by Emperor Claudis II. It seems though that Claudius II was impressed with the priest and attempted to get him to become become Pagan to save his life. It was a gesture of mercy. Instead, however, Valentine tried to convert Claudius. The Emperor certainly wasn't use to being turned down and wasn't amused with his beliefs being dismissed right to his face, which clinched Valentine's execution. So, now, when I see all the red themed Valentine's Day kitsch it makes me think of Saint Valentine's body dripping white with blood. So, with that thought in mind,

"HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!!!"

As for me, I don't like Valentines Day and thankfully neither does my wife. It feels contrived and just another day for corporations to rape our wallets.