When at the Altar of the Flame

burn juniper

plucked by your own hand

sung over with spells and charms

with the water of wells and of rasps

wash your face and hands

singing "gabhaim molta bride"

the flame is passed from hand to hand

rough, calloused fingers

used to work of forge and pen

of weaving and ploughing and toil

her hand the hand of sister

of brother

of uncle and aunt

of cousin and parent and child

her hand the hand of the world

sing to the spark between your palms

light your lamp