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The Meaning of
"Crone",
The title "Crone" hasn't always been derogatory. In pre-Christian times, very old women were particularly important members of communities. They were leaders, artists, healers, midwives, and counselors. They were seen as the fulfillment of female life experience and wisdom. From the unrestrained youthfulness of the maiden' through the life-sustaining importance of the mother; to the calm, evolved and confident wisdom and compassion of the old woman, lie a lifetime of commitment to caring and listening and connecting. Without these fierce and ancient commitments, human life could literally not have continued. Those who choose the name of Crone do so deliberately, with full awareness of its current negative connotation. It is chosen to confront the issues facing aging women and to raise important questions about attitudes and feelings toward those issues. So, by bring the term "Crone" and these concepts out of the shadows and into the light, the values can be revealed, strengths acknowledged, with learning coming from the insights and experience honored. Old Women are discovering the strength that comes with knowing who they are. They are freeing themselves from having to be something for someone else; freeing themselves to see one another just they way they are, not through the filter of other's expectations. They are sharing feelings, fears, and insights, accepting each other's changes and encouraging each other's growth. In addition to these changes they are accepting that "old" is not a four-letter word; that "old" is not a statement of a decline but one of time. Old is not good or bad, it is just a measurement, without judgment. Crones are learning to grow and grow old together. By using the name of Crone and accepting their ages they are restoring the image of strong wise Old Women to their rightful place of honor and respect.
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