Croning CeremoniesIn early cultures, the female elder was considered a wise woman. She was the healer, the teacher, and the one who imparted a knowledge earned through her diverse life experience. She mediated disputes, had influence over tribal leaders, and cared for the dying as they took their final breaths. To reach the status of “crone” was a major milestone for a woman. In our modern world, to be called a crone is generally considered an insult. Women who had reached an advanced age are often dismissed as useless hags, and therefore there was certainly nothing about aging to celebrate. Fortunately, times are changing, and more and more women are welcoming this aspect of their life. These women are reclaiming the name of crone in a positive way, and see it as a time to joyfully welcome one's position as an elder within the community. Why not celebrate your graduation into “crone” status with a personalized ritual? Crossing the threshold into cronehood can be a major event in a woman's life. It's a celebration of all that you've learned and all that you will come to know in the future. For many women, it's a time to make new commitments and vows. This third cycle of your life is the one in which you become an elder, and you've joined a special group. You have a lifetime of achievements behind you, and decades more to look forward to. The word crone should now be a word of power for you, so celebrate it. You've earned it! Let me help you to celebrate your experience, your wisdom and your gifts either as a solitary ceremony or in the company of loved ones.