I was born in Somerset. Close to the living monuments and memories and mythology of Camelot, the legends of Arthur and the Holy Grail. As a child I didn’t think much of it. Pubs had Arthurian and Knights Templar names. The hill fort at North Cadbury and considered to be the site of Camelot, was a favourite courting spot and where I did my first shamanic journey.

Glastonbury became popular because of the festival, and from nowhere my little back water of small community and rural life, went on the global map. Fame brought an influx of tourists and a generation of seekers. I watched as the deep sacred in my land and the land of my ancestors, became a commodity to be traded, and the mystic message in many respects got lost.

I live away from Avalon now. In Portugal. But what do you know, physical distance has given me greater insight into the true meaning of those legends. By way of context here is a quick summary of the myth and the mythical characters.

Some say that the grail is the cup Christ passed around at the Last Supper. Others that it is a powerful chalice containing the secrets of the universe passed between deities of old. Others believe that the grail came to Britain in the 12th Century in the hands of Joseph of Arimathea. This chalice was the object of desire of King Arthur and his knights. It was thought to be guarded by the Fisher King in a castle. Lancelot and Percival joined in the quest to find the grail.

As a pilgrim in Portugal, on a quest to follow the labyrinth of my heart and my true soul purpose, I’ve come to view the grail as a symbol of enlightenment. It representing our undefinable essence. When we are born we begin our journey on this earth untainted and completely innocent. We make our way in the world, and as we mature we start to understand who we are and what we want. We get closer to our divinity, and our soul mission.

I feel honoured to have been born on sacred land. I am humbled that the soul of that land lives in me. It’s the flame by which daily I can say with true faith - “Thy will be done.”

As you do your own exploration of the Arthurian myth, you will be captivated by the timeless themes of courage, love, betrayal, greed, jealousy and wisdom. The stories help us to see how we each have our quest. It’s never the destination, but how we get there.