The Rites of Women ©2005
By Rev. Dr. Tonya K. Freeman

First Rite: Menarche

For a number of years now, I have been a strong advocate of women reclaiming their spiritual mysteries. In my workshops, seminars, and Primordial Priestess Training, the women are encouraged to identify and embrace the first mystery that they were introduced to, their Sacred Moon Cycle. By honoring this part of themselves, many have experienced a closer connection to Gaia’s rhythms and cycles, less cramps, less blood flow and in some cases less days of flowing. I love hearing reports such as these because it makes the work that I was born to do and love to do, a lot easier. There are still many miles to go, so to speak.

As I think back upon my entry into womanhood the Summer of my thirteenth year. I remember that there was somewhat of a celebration given by my Mother, one of my aunts and my favorite female cousin. I had not really remembered that time, until now, as I am writing this article.

These three very special women in my life cooked a special dinner, baked a cake, sat and talked woman to woman with me. My Aunt gave me a greeting card. The card was funny because it had a pill in it and read something like, “Put this pill between your knees and hold it.” I remember laughing and saying that I was not looking to get pregnant anytime soon.

They bought me those “special” pads women use during “that time of the month” and showed me how to use them. My Mother even shared with me the use of a natural homemade pad, just in case.

I recall a shopping trip with my Dad around that time. He bought me a few pieces of clothing and a pair of heels to add to my wardrobe. As I look back on that time, I am grateful that it was happy and joyful. I had forgotten how I was honored. It didn’t really occur to me what that celebratory Rite of Passage was all about. It never ceases to amaze me how events of the past are so relevant to my work today.

Let me share with you some things that can possibly make the lives of women, my SiStars, my Daughters, even some of my Elders, a better experience, thereby, helping to make the world a better place one person at a time.

Come with me on a journey into the Ancient Femi9 Mysteries.

The first Rite of Passage for a young woman is such a natural one. It is the one where she begins her Sacred Bleed. This is a time of spiritual insight, dreams, visions and knowledge being shared by the Elder women of the family and the community. It is a time of transformation and the realization that you, as a woman can bleed for up to seven days and not die! Not only that, women created the first lunar calendar by counting the days until the next moon cycle. Just think how in tune to the cycles of nature you are at this time! Having the knowledge come to you from a feminine perspective, will allow you to honor yourself and be renewed.

Most modern western women have not been privy to a positive experience of entering into womanhood. This point of view is changing, but not quickly enough, especially when I hear women talk about stopping their flow for four months or more. That can only bring disharmony to the female body and psyche as well. Life is out of balance when a woman does not honor the sacred aspects of herself.

How about celebrating that special day by having a Blessed by the Moon Rite of Passage Ceremony? There should be Elder women from the family and maybe even the community coming together to celebrate this most auspicious time in a young woman’s life. The young flower may want to contribute her thoughts regarding festivities. After all, this is her day.

Here is a scenario…the room is decorated with red and white flowers, red colored fruits and food, a special chair draped in red cloth and a red carpet for her to walk on.

One of the Elder women, maybe her Mother, could make a special photo album filled of her previous years on Earth and present it to her. Music can be played for dancing and listening. The women attending could dance for the young maiden to send her loving energy and then have her to dance with them. A special Sacred Blood Bundle could be given to her with some items already in it…crystals, red candles and a special piece of red Moontime jewelry, just to get the bundle going. It can be a pouch or perhaps a doll. Handmade dolls have great meaning and hold great medicine.

Our Ancestral Mothers knew of this blessed time and honored it. Will you?