So Day 2 of my Greek Odyssey was quite chilled but not without its ups and downs for me emotionally.
In the morning, I spent some time familiarizing myself with Eressos, the village where I am staying. It is a charming place about a 50-minute walk from the coastal village of Skala Eressos, where the festival is taking place. Being here is taking me back to my time living in Greece during the 1980s, with its quaint and traditional atmosphere. One thing that stood out to me is that although many people gather in the square, none of them are using their phones. Despite feeling self-conscious about being alone, I am consciously making an effort to avoid hiding behind my phone. It is refreshing to see people engaging with each other instead of staring at screens.
Around 1pm I headed down to Skala to pick up my festival wristband, get a feel for the place and have a swim.
It’s a beautiful, laidback little seaside village that again took me back to Greece in the 1980s .
Swimming in the sea is one of my favorite things and the Aegean Sea is so clear and beautiful . I felt very free and visualised the cool water washing away some of my fears and doubts . It was stunning to meet a pair of swans swimming in the water and quite happily mingling with people. It was a reminder to me that although I have chosen Persephone to be my Patron on this adventure, my home girl Brigit is always with me. The Swans which are one of her symbols ,reminded me of the Celtic blood in my veins and that I have no excuse not to be brave.
One think however was markedly different here.
After meeting my first girlfriend Gail (who remains one of my closest friends) in a Gay club toilet in the 80s, I brought her with me to Greece. We had to pretend to be just friends, although not very convincingly, as the Greek Islands were not welcoming to the LGBTQ+ community back then. It's worth noting that Same-sex marriage was only legalized in Greece in February of this year. I recall how keen Gail and I were to get to Mykonos, where we had heard that we could openly hold hands without fear of being attacked.
Here in Skala Eressos there are lesbians and lesbian centered businesses everywhere you look . Even the beer is Lesbian.
There is reason behind this. Skala Eressos is the birthplace of Sappho. During the 7th century Sappho was renowned for her romantic and erotic poetry, especially those depicting homoerotic desire for women. An outspoken devotee of the Goddess Aphrodite, from her name originates the terms 'Sapphic' and 'Lesbian',. It's fabulous to see her legacy still going strong here in this little piece of paradise.
It was a peculiar experience for me to see so many couples openly showing affection everywhere I looked and groups of friends warmly reuniting, I couldn't help but feel a tinge of loneliness and self-consciousness about being there by myself.
Fortunately, I had the chance to meet a kind woman named Rosemary who had offered to give me a tour of the village. Later, I also got to know another lovely lady named Demi from Devon, who shared a taxi with me back to Eressos. We exchanged contact information to ensure none of us ever end up having to walk home alone at night. Both of these amazing women have visited the place multiple times and have established friendships, so I didn't want to intrude on their reconnections with people they only see once a year.
I had an absolutely delicious evening meal alone at a taverna in the village square admittedly feeling a bit emotional and lonley. For a few minutes I really missed my local pub The Strawberry Gardens and the familiar faces of the locals. Pub family as I call them. Everyone around me was talking and laughing and I suddenly felt like crying.
I did make one new friend though.
Returning to my house, I had to reflect on my purpose and think about the woman I desired to share this space with. This woman, who other people describe as strong, kind, intelligent, funny, and courageous, although I don't always see it. That woman of course is me. Throughout my life, I've grappled with self-esteem issues, frequently tying my self-worth to external validation, often for the wrong reasons. My early years were marred by abuse and neglect, leading me to seek approval through others, even if they didn't offer genuine love and respect.
Fortunately, I discovered the path of the Witch, embodying 'Woman In Total Control of Herself.' Engaging in Shadow Work, connecting with the Goddess, and embracing our empowering Craft, I've learned to appreciate and honour my true self in ways I never thought possible.
As always however I'm a work in progress and the last couple of days have really highlighted some areas that need attention.
Can't complain though as I'm in a perfect place to work it all out. Tonight I'm attending the opening night of the Festival on my own, I'm nervous as hell but am going anyway. i may even enjoy myself .
I drew some cards for advice this morning and I'll share them incase they resonate with anyone.
In the center is The Tower reversed. Whilst no one likes to see the Tower, in a reversed position it has a different meaning.
The Tower Reversed indicates a significant personal transformation and upheaval that you are currently experiencing. In contrast to The Tower Upright, where change is often imposed by circumstances beyond your control, with The Tower Reversed, you are actively driving the change and reevaluating your belief systems, values and purpose. This can show a time of spiritual awakening as you explore a new path and evaluate your beliefs and perspectives on important matters. Although this phase may be unsettling, have faith in the process as it is ultimately going to work out for the best. Embrace the change and transformation to evolve into a new and improved version of yourself. This is such a powerful and pertinent card to where I am right now.
The card in the past position is the Ace of Wands. Whilst Aces represent potential so nothing is set in stone, the Ace of Wands encourages you to follow your heart and live your passion. If you sense a powerful attraction towards a fresh start or direction, but have doubts about its success, this card encourages you to follow your dreams. Begin by viewing the project or concept as a test or trial. If it resonates positively, continue; if not, make adaptations and try something else. Allow your energy, commitment, and soul to lead the way. Again a card that resonates strongly with what drove me to be here.
In the future position I pulled the 8 of Cups . As depicted in the card the 8 of Cups speaks of leaving something behind as you walk to a new future.The Eight of Cups encourages you to reflect on what truly brings you joy, satisfaction, and fulfillment at a profound personal level. Failing to do so may lead you to chase situations that do not provide the contentment you desire. For instance, you might believe that being in a committed relationship is what you need, only to discover that what you truly long for is a deep soul connection. Without this connection, the relationship will not meet your needs, regardless of its duration. If you frequently find yourself in such situations represented by the Eight of Cups, where leaving seems inevitable, take the time to identify what will genuinely make you happy and adjust your aspirations to align with your true needs and values.
Well as usual the cards pull no punches and definately reiterates much of why I have made this trip. To get to know and finally fall in love with myself. Guess I won't be dipping myself in chocolate and throwing myself to the lesbians just yet.
Maybe next year.
Bright Blessings and thanks for reading.
Bex
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