Ariadne

Ariadne of the winding way, wise one

who knows the shortest path may not be the best,

daughter of old Crete, you have seen the fall of cities,

you have seen the death and the resurrection of faith,

you have lived many lives and begun many journeys.

Clever girl, your wit and wile break open any

mystery, solve any puzzle, answer any riddle.

Best beloved of wine-soaked Dionysos,

you lead the maenads in their dance, ever circling,

ever inward; you face the unknown with no fear,

knowing that whatever may be, you are its equal.

Ariadne, you lead at once with head and heart,

you open your whole self to what may come. Goddess,

I thank you for your blessings and your many gifts.