The Feast of Shemu: A Celebration of Life and Renewal

In the heart of Giza, Egypt, a mystical festival unfolds—The Feast of Shmo (or Shemu), as the ancient Egyptians called it, marks the revival of life—a time to honor the past and embrace the future. As the sun’s first rays kiss the horizon, an ancient tradition comes alive.

🌻 Blooming Flowers and Promises Fulfilled: On this auspicious day, the air is fragrant with the delicate scent of blossoms. Fields and gardens burst forth with vibrant colors, celebrating the promise of life’s renewal. 

🌟 Orion’s Farewell: Before dawn, gaze skyward. There, in the celestial tapestry, you’ll find Orion, the ascended Osiris. But this is no ordinary sighting. It’s a poignant farewell. For as the sun ascends, Orion begins his westward journey, fading from our view for the next couple of months. His departure mirrors the lives of our loved ones who’ve also traveled westward, into the setting sun.

🌄 A Commemoration of Departed Souls: As the golden light bathed the land, the ancient Egyptians gathered by the banks of the Nile, in meadows, and amid lush gardens. They carried offerings of food and flowers, paying homage to those who’ve crossed the threshold into eternity. Today is a day of remembrance, of shared stories, and of honoring the interconnectedness of all existence.

🌞 The Sunrise (or Orion’s Disappearance): Whether you witness the sun’s triumphant rise or Orion’s graceful exit, know that you’re part of a timeless cycle—a celebration that bridges the earthly and the celestial. As the world awakens, hearts beat in unison, and the promise of life continues to unfold.

🌿 Join the Tradition: If you find yourself near the Great Pyramid of Giza on this sacred day, join the gathering for an early morning discussion about the ancient Feast as we wrap small bundles of flowers. If you are not around Giza, you can still participate by taking time to remember your loved ones who have passed away. Take a bouquet of flowers to their resting place or float the tops of flowers in some water in a bowl. Put the bowl in a place outside where it will get some sunlight as the sun rises that morning. Feel the pulse of generations past and present. And as the sun paints the sky with hues of gold and rose, remember: life’s journey is both fleeting and eternal.

May the Beautiful Feast of the Shemu weave its magic upon your soul.