Yesterday was the new moon, though it is never visible on that day.

It rises with the sun and arcs above us all day long, then invisibly slips away in the sun’s gaudy shadow. The photo above is a fragment of a rock scallop that I love because its crescent shape reminds me of the new moon, yet is substantial and tangible. It’s a way to make a visceral connection with something so far away, a talisman.

I lovingly call myself a Lunatic, because I’m devoted to observing the moon.

Fortunately, living so far from city lights I get to witness many lunar spectacles. But I have to go down to the beach to see the new moon, which seems only fitting, given her role in my tidal life. Perhaps I feel a special connection to her because I was born on the new moon (during an eclipse no less).

It always feels like a clean slate, a time to emphasize new projects or regenerate energy for an existing one.

So today I meditate on newness:

• the tiniest evidence of Spring emerging on branches

• freshening winds off the Strait

• geese arriving on the lagoon

• purple crocuses demanding attention

• renewed love of this place I call my home on earth and a deeper dedication to doing whatever I can to restore balance

CONTEMPLATIONS

• What is new in your world that deserves attention?
• Are there old projects that could use renewed energy?
• What do you vow to accomplish during this lunation?

Grab hold of some other new moons here.