crone

The maiden, the mother, and the crone.  Our tapestry of experiences we women weave into the histories and stories of our lives.

The Maiden

First, let’s look at the innocent, free-spirited maiden. Clearly, she is naive and innocent, not quite tainted by the realities of her current world.  She embodies playfulness, creativity, beauty and charm. Coupled with her smooth dewy skin and luscious mane of hair, she enjoys the fruits of being young, energetic, and free.

The Mother

Secondly, I introduce the archetype of the compassionate and nurturing mother.   Specifically, she shelters, supports,  and gives her energy to others without ceasing.   Her identity is often obscured by her duties of protecting and raising her children and family. Physically, her body carries with her the aftermath of motherhood.  Swollen bellies and engorged breasts that later gave way to loose and relaxed skin.  Proof of difficult births is painted hip to hip in the form of cesarean scars.  Additionally, the mother showcases tired and worried eyes due to late night feedings and waiting out curfews.

Motherhood is also a time of great reward.  With the arrival of the first smiles, first word, and first steps make being in the mother phase so uplifting.  Thus, the years spent as a mother often represent some of the best years along with some of the best memories.

The Crone

Lastly, the crone, aka the hag, or the wise woman.  She is the story between the stories.  At nearly half a century old, her midlife dances between two worlds.  Comparatively, one of prolific fruit and  abundance sandwiched alongside the barren end of life.  Clearly, the beginnings of menopause is just that,  an intermission, which eventually, leads to the final feminine performance.

Don’t believe the frightful stories that have been passed down for years about the elder woman! Numerous stories like to depict her as ugly, demonic, sinister, and evil.  In truth, the phase of the crone should be celebrated!  In contrast, in ancient folklore, the crone comes from the crown, indicating wisdom from the head.  Crones and hags were wise women that were often midwives and healers to the communities.   Additionally, the crone is seen to have an understanding  of her true inner-knowing.  With instinctively trusting her inner wisdom and living as her true self.  Always leading with her intuition and supporting others in life transitions.

It is estimated that 30% of our lives is spent in the crone era.  Celebrate this achievement, relish the title, enjoy the journey!  Whether you resonate with the crone,  the hag,  an elder woman or the wise woman, claim it and it will claim you!