A Circle of Stones  Journeys and Meditations for Modern Celts (Second
Edition)  by  Erynn Rowan Laurie  © 2012  ISBN:  978-1-905713-77-6
Megalithica Books    Paperback  124 pages    $16.95 (U.S.)              pdf
Version   $10.00 (U.S.)

There haven't been a lot of changes made to this book since it was
originally issued.  There have been a few improvements in the
translation of Irish words, and the illustrations have been redone,
but the information is essentially unchanged.  It may be showing its
age a bit, even the author admits that there have been advances in the
archeological underpinnings of the work, and increased knowledge of
the language and culture of the Irish Celtic people.  In spite of
that, or perhaps because of it, this remains an easily understandable
book, and a good source for those who wish to walk the Celtic
Reconstructionist (CR) path of Paganism.

There are numerous suggestions for several rituals, as well as
guidelines for the creation and maintenance of altars – including
suggestions for turning your entire living space into a sacred
environment.  One of the great things about her ideas for the altar is
that she emphasizes the need for the altar to work for you.  It
doesn't have to be a certain size or shape; it doesn't have to be kept
overly neat and tidy; it doesn't need to be particularly artistic in
its arrangement.  It should, however, be a place which you visit
frequently, thus alleviating the necessity for dusting it.  After all,
if you are interacting with the altar constantly, things will not
remain static for very long.

Perhaps one of the biggest shortfalls in the average Pagan's
realtionship with the Gods/Ancestors/ nature spirits is the approach
taken in regards to communiinig with them.  Far too many individuals
only contact the “other side” when they have a problem, or to give
thanks and/or praise.  Since one of the major differences between the
mainstream religions and Paganism is the accessibility of our gods
(after all, we don't need a mediator) it seems like a no-brainer to
include them in our daily lives.  Yet many people seem to feel that
the routine of human life would be boring to the deities.  Perhaps,
but wouldn't you be more inclined to help out someone who kept in
touch instead of only calling on you when they were in need?

The spirits/gods/ancestors should be treated as honored guests when
they respond to your call.  Hospitality is a sacred obligation in the
Celtic world (and not just for those who are not physically present).
As such, you should make sure you know who you are inviting, what they
like (or don't like), who they get along with (and who shouldn't be
invited to the same gathering).  You might consider  the fact that you
would more likely find them shopping at the local flea market as
opposed to the local antique stores.

It is also important to consider the culture in which these deities
were worshipped.  They respected bravery, so subservience and
groveling are not expected.  They expected their followers to be
boastful (although not excessively so) and confident, so they should
be approached with that confidence.

All of these details, and more, are laid out in this book.  Without a
doubt, this book is designed to get you started on your journey of
exploration.  It isn't so much a guide book as it is a broad
itinerary.  It is intended to help you start without handcapping you
by giving too much detail.  If you are looking for and excellent
“starter” book on the topic, this is one you will want in your
library.