The Snake Priestess

I walk up the stone steps slowly, one-by-one. As I ascend them each day, I am usually filled with the beauty and light of the Goddess. As a ranking temple Priestess, I am a sacred vessel of the Lady upon our Earth. Often I spread my arms wide as she fills me with her power. But today is different, and I take the steps with fear in my heart. I know the dark jackal awaits me

My only comfort is my little one. I wear her twined around my wrist and arm like a bracelet. I stroke her protectively, as I remember the day that she was given to me. I was nothing more than a little girl then, hoping to be a great and awesome Priestess someday, but having no idea what that truly meant. She has grown since then - a little - but a small snake suits a small Priestess. Actually, I had been terrified of the striking of snakes before I met her, but she was so tiny that all I could do when I saw her was to love her. Learning to feed her was one of my first lessons in the importance of death as it supports life and new growth

It is an appropriate memory on this day. I am reminded that our fears often dissolve away when they are faced straight on. With renewed resolve, I pick up the hems of my flowing robes and cloak to walk forward into the temple with my head held high

Today is the day that I become the highest Priestess of all, the Queen. No, more than that, today I become a Goddess. Today I become Immortal. But first, I must die.

I enter now with eyes straight ahead. Everyone is looking at me. Some kneel already. I let my skirts drop to trail behind me as I walk directly forward and down the long hall to the inner chambers. Refusing to be distracted by those around me, the journey is first long and then suddenly all too short. First, I am stripped nude. Then Nanna is unwrapped from my wrist and ceremoniously placed in her basket. From this moment on, I will be escorted to my fate. As in the sacred tradition, I spent last night in solitary meditation at the feet of the Gods, but if I survive this I will never be truly alone ever again - guards, servants and demands of state await me as my reward. Why? Why does the Lady ask this of me.