C Hope Clark, one of my Literary mentors guest blogged  me yesterday during the New Moon what an honor to share with all you a very proud moment! https://www.facebook.com/chopeclark?fref=ts

As a very logical, left-brain individual, considering the moon’s phases meant little to me until I met a woman a few years older than I who focused on such things. Frankly, she focused on the entire universe both mentally and through her yoga. At 63 years young, she could strike yoga poses most young women could barely attempt. She had a calm presence about her, even though she was rather hyper, but with a nice balance. Not sure how to put my finger on it, but she seemed to have a soft yet confident grip on her life.

            She taught me about the New Moon, when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth. Like clockwork, she lights a black candle and chooses someone in her life who has a need, or who could appreciate her best wishes. On Facebook, she reminds all of her friends, of which there are many, to light their black candles, too. Such a candle sits on my writing desk now, waiting for my gentle reminder from her in case I miss the date on my calendar where I’ve circled each New Moon date for the year. I strike a match, start the flame, make a wish for someone in my life, and enjoy watching the wick burn for a few minutes. It’s supposed to be a moment when the world opens up to us, offering support for us in fresh journeys or new projects. Relaxing. A nice ritual.

            Many artists have recognized the power of the New Moon and used it in their work. Stephanie Myers infamously used it in her Twilight Series, representing Bella’s understanding of a new world. Albums and songs have been named New Moon. Religious holidays originate around a New Moon. As a writer, I appreciate that the New Moon is like a blank page of a yet-to-be-told story. It’s a good time to start something different, or wish a pure start for someone else. Like starting off the New Year with resolutions, only with a New Moon you have a chance to do the same each lunar month which has a rejuvenating feel.

            The moon rises with the sun and sets with the sun. With such a synchronized pattern of two huge objects that possess so much power over the Earth, we experience tidal and other changes. Whether we believe in astrology or not, the fact is the New Moon affects us all. But for me, I’ll continue to light my little black candle, because we can never wish too much enough goodwill on the world. 

BIO

C. Hope Clark is author of the award-winning Carolina Slade Mystery Series, with its most recent release, Palmetto Poison. She is also editor of FundsforWriters.com, a professional resource for working writers. www.chopeclark.com / www.fundsforwriters.com