Beyond Maiden, Mother, Crone

Maidenhood was historically a combination of chastity, beauty, youth, naivete, and purity. Girls avoided “temptation” until they were physically able to produce children, meaning the moment they commenced menstruation. Those who partook in premarital relations were tainted and no longer desirable mates. Often, they were doomed to become spinsters. If you think this concept is obsolete, you’re partially right. Read more...

 

The mother figure in our lives is our model for our conduct in the home and the world. To some extent, so are the mother figures portrayed in the media. How many of us had tea parties, made up of various friends—real or imagined—enacting the social ritual of sharing food and gossip? In makeup and plastic jewelry, we did our best to mock the grownups we saw in life or on television. But how realistic is this picture? Read more...

In ancient times, Elder women were believed to embody wholesome knowledge and truth. No longer thought of as weakened by her monthly menstruation cycle, these “Wise Bloods” took upon an influential matriarchal role. Through their wisdom and intuitive abilities, they were honored and respected by the community. In their idea of giving back to society Crone women shared their acquired knowledge as spiritual guidance and healers.

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