Wild Being: Meeting the White Stag
Thirteen years ago, in a special and serene local woodland called Kingswood, I found myself immersed in a moment of profound wonder. As I sat quietly, meditating, connecting with the natural symphony of the forest, my senses were suddenly awakened by the sight of a magnificent White Stag through the trees. I watched the Stag move gently in the distance, before it began to run, leading a herd of deer through the wooded paths.
This memory appeared in my Facebook memories, recently, and reminded me of the Celtic folklore surrounding the appearance of a white stag; a sacred event, steeped in myth and symbolism, marking a doorway between worlds.
Regularly in Celtic folklore, the white stag is considered a messenger from Annwn, the Celtic Otherworld. In the legendary tales of the Mabinogion, the white stag is depicted as a symbol of sovereignty and kingship, its presence signaling the rightful ruler of the land. In the Arthurian legends, it is said that the white stag would lead brave knights on quests of great importance, guiding them through perilous trials and towards their destinies. In its simplest interpretation, seeing the White Stag is a sign that you are on the right track, and can be a blessing from the Otherworld on your journey.
As I watched in awe at the majestic form of the white stag, through ancient trees of Kingswood, I felt a profound sense of connection to the timeless wisdom of nature. I wondered at the time what this meeting might mean on my journey, what this appearance represented, sensing the presence of unseen forces guiding me on my journey. It was a reminder of the interconnectedness of all life, and the enduring power of the natural world to inspire, uplift, and transform.
Reflecting on this sacred encounter, I am reminded of the importance of embracing the mysteries of nature and opening ourselves to the wisdom of the wild. I am also reminded how important practices of connection with nature are for being open to these sorts of encounters. In the Wild Being module of the Spiritual Rewilding course, we explore the teachings of animism and the art of attuning ourselves to the rhythms of the natural world. By immersing ourselves in nature's pace and embracing its inherent rhythm, we can cultivate a deeper sense of connection to the land, and awaken to the profound mysteries that are all around us.
For more information about the Spiritual Rewilding Online Course, please visit https://www.jonathanweekes.co.uk/courses/spiritual-rewilding