Holly: Tinne

By S.F. Skyheart - May 16, 2024

The names of the Celtic tree months come from some of the letters of the Ogham. The Ogham is an ancient alphabet believed to have originated in the 4th century (possibly as early as the 1st) in what is now the southwest region of Ireland.

The Celtic month of Holly, May 16 - June 12, is associated with:

Ogham: Tinne – (CHIN-yuh) represents balance, duality, opposites of a whole, justice, paternal lineage, divine masculine.

The energy of Tinne is balanced leadership and action, especially for social justice that results in a united community. It's active participation in organizations and efforts for equity, equality, inclusivity, parity, and accessibility for people who have been historically underrepresented, misrepresented, or oppressed. Tinne asks us to open our hearts and minds to the lived experiences of our fellow humans, and to take action toward a better future for all.

On a personal level, Tinne urges us to find a fair and peaceful resolution in any relationship conflicts. It helps us find common ground and balance. It expects two opposites to find a way to blend, or at minimum, to coexist peacefully.

Tinne urges us to research political candidates before we cast our vote, and to research products before we spend our money. Are they profiting from the exploitation or suffering of people, animals, or Earth's resources? We can treat every purchase as a "vote" for the kind of world we want to live in and leave for future generations. Tinne reminds us that every day is an opportunity to act and to course correct when needed.

Consider the power wielded by labor unions last year, as people from all walks of life came together for better, fairer pay and work conditions for writers, actors, production crew, warehouse and automotive workers, trades, truck and delivery drivers, and more. Certain mega-brands have recently reported a decrease in quarterly revenue due to widespread consumer boycotts of their business/products for dishonest price-gouging, anti-labor union actions, and/or outright funding of war.

That is the essence of Tinne and Holly: fairness, inclusion, and especially protection of ourselves and our fellow humans.

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.