This post, “Persephone Returns” was written for my WordPress blog called Always Growing by Jan in Covington, Louisiana
March 20th – First day of Spring
If Spring came but once in a century, instead of once a year,
or burst forth with the sound of an earthquake,
and not in silence, what wonder and expectation there would
be in all hearts to behold the miraculous change
But now the silent succession suggests nothing but necessity.
To most men only the cessation of the miracle would be
miraculous and the perpetual exercise of Gods power
seems less wonderful than its withdrawal would be.
– Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
Today is the first day of spring, and as Longfellow writes, it is a wonderful occurance, but is often taken for granted.
This day, according to Greek mythology, is when Persephone, who was abducted into the underworld by Hades, returns to earth. Demeter, her mother, is joyous that her daughter was restored to her and allows the earth to bring forth new growth.
The Green Man
The Green Man is also a popular and ancient symbol of rebirth. I have several plaques of the Green Man around my home and in the garden.
I know that in many areas Spring still seems a long way off, but we know the cycles of nature, and today confirms that warmth and rebirth is here.
Always Growing 
linnie said,
March 21, 2008 at 7:02 pm
I enjoyed your post and thought it was very interesting. So many cultures through the ages and all of us have celebrated this season of rebirth and new beginnings.
Linnie in Destrehan, LA 3/21/08
Thanks, Linnie, I appreciate the feedback.