Winter Solstice

For many years my new year has begun in December.  December, when all the shows are done.  December, when I could collapse for a few days.  December, when pressing deadlines were pretty much nonexistent.  December, when the shrinking hours of daylight turned around the solstice and began to lengthen once again.  

December, when the promise of returning light, spring and life brings hope.  

It is the human condition to be faced with challenges.  Without hope these challenges can seem daunting.  Indeed they may seem insurmountable.  The only way out is through.  

Our ancestors celebrated the returning sun with light.  Huge bonfires were built to drive away the dark and encourage the sun to return.  Today we string lights, draping them over our houses, trees, fences. We erect trees inside our houses, similarly draped with light.  

We look forward to the new year, the coming spring, the return of life.  

Beginning today the daylight hours will increase.  I, for one, am celebrating the new year today.  

Wishing everyone the very best for the coming year whenever and however you celebrate.