Waxing and Waning

September Six Word Photo Story Challenge: “Shadows”

The moon is shrouded in mystery.

We describe the phases of the moon (who is always whole) by the size and shape of her light and shadow. Today, she is 46.48% illuminated — roughly a half moon (but still, secretly whole).

The moon symbolizes many things, including mystery, femininity, change, emotion, and the most hidden parts of ourselves. She is an icon for shadow work.

Last night, my son and I gazed at the moon, who was partly obstructed by the silhouetted branches of an oak tree in our back yard. We spoke of many things, including my son’s preference for darkness, quiet moments, and cool weather. We noticed how the still-leafy branches framed the September moon like a picture.

My son walked through the grass, threw a ball for the dog, played with the cold water of the garden hose. I sat in reverence of moons and moments and motherhood, admiring shadows.