Gorse: Othila
Each of the Celtic trees correlates with a Rune. Runes are a twenty-four letter alphabet, originating with Germanic tribes as early as the 2nd century. Runic glyphs were carved or etched into bone, wood, leather, jewelry, tools, weapons, and stone. Norse and Viking runic artifacts dating as far back as the 9th century have been found in several Northern European and Scandinavian countries, Russia, Turkey and North America. Notably, runes found in Canada and the United States pre-date Columbus by several hundred years, so he was definitely not the first visitor.
The Celtic day Gorse is the day before the spring equinox, and is associated with:
Rune: Othila
This rune symbolizes separating paths, shedding old skin, discarding outgrown relationships and connections. Knowing how and when to retreat is key. There are many modern voices who push "hustle culture" and never giving up as a mindset. But there can be greater wisdom in learning when it is the best choice to quit, disconnect from what is no longer in alignment, and most importantly, not beating yourself up for it. In fact, celebrating that you didn't keep pushing that heavy load up a hill that wasn't meant for you to climb.
Surrender to this period of growth and experience serenity as you connect with deeper authenticity and self-awareness. That which we resist, persists.
Know that allowing the old to fall away makes room for new opportunities and abundance.
Do what lights you up,
Sadie
Please note: Some people start the tree calendar with Birch in January, which follows the solar calendar. However, I learned them in an older tradition, which aligns with the 13-month lunar calendar. It's up to you to discern what feels right for you, of course.
See also:
Gorse Day Before Spring Equinox
Pisces 2024
Aries 2024
Gorse: Ohn
Gorse: Bumblebee Jasper
Gorse: Bee
Ostara 2024
Celtic Tree Months
Author of The Recollection of Trees book series. Fifth generation intuitive. Kitchen witch. she/her.