When I first started out I wanted to make sure that I celebrated Esbats every single time, I didn't want to miss one as I felt it would disrepectful to the Gods, to my path and to me even. Yet it is really that important?
The Full Moon is a time of change and energy, the time it is said when the Goddess is at her strongest and our magick too. I agree in that the pull of the moon is at its strongest at this time as anyone who has seen the sea will tell you, but the Goddess is strong all the time. In fact for me she is at her strongest at the dark of the moon, a time said by some for no magickal work to be done, a time of meditation and rest. Why though? Our greatest strengths come from dealing with our deepest fears, and these are almost always (metaphorically speaking) in the dark. Shouldn't we be celebrating the dark of the moon for this is what can release us into being stronger and better people? As with all the darkest times there is always a light ahead so surely dealing with or trying to face the worst things in your life is best tackled then? The deepest darkness is purged by the slow returning of the moons face, as we too can slowly recover from our own problems and fears.
Now I am not one for spells or ritual at set times according to moon phase and planetary position but sometimes I feel the need for the moon phase. The full moon for me is for bright positive works, and the dark of the moon for the heavier work, both of which though seek change usually. However, a spot of good old fashioned moonbathing is fabulous for rejuvenating the soul
Nowadays, I might only say good evening through the window to the full moon, I am more likely to do any work required at the dark of the moon. I used to do a full moon esbat with all the trimmings, yet for me now this seems unrealistic. I think it would be of more benefit to celebrate the dark of the moon, after all things get brighter after that. After the full moon things get dimmer, duller and with less clarity.
What do you think, do you celebrate the Esbats? Do you feel that the dark moon should be celebrated or acknowledged too? Have your Esbat practices changed since you started out along your path?