After the second Battle of Moy Tura, Macha traveled throughout Ireland. “What news?” they would ask wherever she went, and this is what she told them.

Although there is no evidence that the Kelts of Bronze and Iron Age Ireland observed the winter solstice—unlike their Stone Age predecessors who raised New Grange—Macha's proclamation of peace has long seemed to me a fitting articulation of the hope—and promise—of Yule.

 

Peace Up to Heaven

 

peace up to heaven

heaven down to earth

earth under heaven

strength in both

 

a cup very full

full of honey

mead in plenty

summer in winter

 

Irish (13th c.), Cath Maige Tuire: The Second Battle of Maige Tuire

tr. Elizabeth A. Grey and Steven Posch

For A. O' B.