Prayer to Artemis for Joy in Oneself Alone

Wild-running Artemis, daughter of thundering Zeus,
fleet-footed huntress, bright-hearted girl whose joy it is
to roam the wood and flowered field, you hold the mountains
as your own. Artemis, fair maid of the forest,
I call out to you. In all things, O goddess,
are you sovereign; in all ways do you uphold
your own might. Artemis, friend of the maiden,
friend of all who are sufficient to themselves,
grant to me the joy of independence, the solace
of self-reliance. May I treasure my solitude,
O Artemis; may I sing with my own voice.

Prayer to Heracles for Protection

Heracles, strong-armed son of Zeus and Alcmene
of the dark eyes, great one whose deeds are well known,
whose ancient stories are yet told throughout the world,
whose glorious name will never be forgotten,
I praise and honor you. Libations you received,
in older times poured out upon the earth as befit
a hero; in later days were offerings made
to you on shining altars and at festivals.
Kind Heracles, friend of mankind, defender
of humanity, I call to you for refuge.
Shelter and shield us from harm, O Heracles;
ward us well, I pray; preserve us from all evil.

Semele

Beautiful Semele, strong-hearted daughter
of Cadmus and Harmonia, child of Thebes
who bore the shining son of lightning-wielding Zeus,
beloved mother of Dionysos who carried
you from Hades' dark depths to the shining halls
of Olympos, there to join with the deathless gods
in unending joy. Thyone were you called, O goddess,
by those who received your blessing of madness.
Many were the libations poured out at your shrines,
many the graceful maids who danced in your honor,
many the fragrant flowers strewn at your feet.
Semele of the flowing hair, robed in purple,
wreathed in ivy, through you do maenads find their way
to frenzy, through you do we find our way to bliss.