I am delighted to share another beautiful submission to the Monk in the World guest post series from the community. Read on for Anne Marie Cribbin’s reflection Embracing Celtic Rhythms through Sobriety.
In a world that spins with relentless speed, I have found my sanctuary in the gentle rhythms of the Celtic calendar. Sobriety, an anchor in my life, has opened a door to a monastic way of being—a life steeped in mindfulness, simplicity, and sacred connection to the earth’s cycles. This journey is not just about abstaining from alcohol but about embracing a life that is intentional, reflective, and deeply rooted in ancient wisdom.
My path to sobriety was marked by a longing for authenticity and clarity. Alcohol had become a fog, blurring the edges of my existence and numbing my spirit. The decision to step away from it was like peeling back layers of my soul, revealing a raw, unfiltered version of myself. It was in this newfound clarity that I discovered the Celtic calendar—a tapestry of seasonal rhythms that offered a framework for living with intention and presence.
The morning is my sacred time. It used to be a time of recoiling and facing the shame of promises broken. Now, before the world awakens, I sit in stillness, wrapped in the quiet embrace of dawn. The house is hushed, the air cool, and in that solitude, I find a profound sense of peace. As I meditate, I am grounded by the steady rhythm of my breath, each inhale and exhale a reminder of the present moment. This practice sets the tone for my day, anchoring me in a state of mindfulness that carries through my daily activities.
One of the most transformative experiences in my journey has been the celebration of Samhain. Each year, as the days grow shorter and the air cools, I light candles in honor of my ancestors. The flickering flames cast dancing shadows on the walls, creating an atmosphere of quiet reflection. I sit in the darkness, allowing memories to surface, feeling the presence of those who came before me. This ritual is a poignant reminder of the cyclical nature of life and death, a moment to honor the past while embracing the present.
Imbolc, with its promise of new beginnings, fills me with a sense of hope and renewal. One year, as winter’s grip began to loosen, I decided to plant seeds—both literally and metaphorically. I cleared a small patch of garden, turning the soil with my hands, feeling its cool, damp texture. Each seed I planted was a symbol of my intentions for the coming year, a commitment to growth and transformation. As I tended to my garden, I nurtured my own inner landscape, cultivating habits and practices that support my sobriety.
Cooking has become another meditative practice, a way to connect with the rhythms of the earth and the cycles of the seasons. In the kitchen, I find joy in the simplicity of preparing a meal. Chopping vegetables, I am mindful of the vibrant colors and fresh scents. Stirring a pot of soup, I am soothed by the rhythmic motion and the warmth rising from the stove. Each meal is an offering, a way to nourish my body and soul, grounding me in the present moment.
The connection with community has also been a cornerstone of my journey. Sometimes this looks like hosting recovery calls, or finding communities like Abbey of the Arts where I can glean wisdom from the collective. It’s all a part of the greater web of belonging. Sharing my experiences and listening to the stories of others reinforces the idea that we are all on this journey together. In these connections, I find strength, encouragement, and a sense of shared purpose.
The Celtic calendar has taught me to embrace the natural ebb and flow of life. There are times of growth and abundance, as well as moments of rest and reflection. By aligning myself with these rhythms, I have learned to navigate the ups and downs of my journey with grace and resilience. Sobriety, for me, is not just about abstaining from alcohol; it’s about embracing a way of life that is mindful, intentional, and deeply connected to the earth.
Through this practice, I have found a way to be a monk in the world—a presence of calm and compassion amidst the chaos. The rhythms of the Celtic calendar have provided a framework for living that honors the cycles of nature and the wisdom of the ancients. This path has not only supported my sobriety but has enriched my life in countless ways, bringing a sense of peace, purpose, and joy that I had never before imagined.
In aligning my life with these ancient rhythms, I have discovered a path that is both deeply personal and profoundly universal. It is a way of living that is rich, meaningful, and deeply nourishing. Through this practice, I have learned to live a life that I am proud of—a life that is deeply rooted, profoundly connected, and truly nourishing. In this alignment, the evolution of liberation continues. And I commit myself to the evergreen journey of being a monk in the world.
Anne Marie Cribbin is a recovery coach and spiritual companion based in Washington DC. She owns Thirsty For Wonder, offering coaching, spiritual companionship, and recovery support. Creator of The Wellspring, she combines Celtic wisdom with sobriety, promoting liberation, compassion, and self-love.
