Solstice literally means “sun stands still” for about three days. About ten days ago we had snow and sleet on the mountains.
We had hope that we might get a “White Christmas” and a shining, sparkling Solstice but our hopes were dashed as temperatures rose again and we became engulfed in mist. The mist wrapped itself around and imposed a magical enchantment, reducing sound and only slightly revealing ghostly shapes. Soft and velvety it protected us from the madness of current crazy consumerism. Then, on 20th December it seemed to be clearing.
The mountains were becoming visible. Perhaps we would be fortunate to see the sun the next day.
On Thursday we were up to celebrate the solstice, to greet the returning sun. Just before dawn, standing in our bare feet to connect with Mother Earth, we sang and chanted and I drummed a welcome but unfortunately the mist was too heavy – it was a fog!! We could not see the sun but we celebrated anyway.
Celebrating the Solstice is celebrating the return of the Light, celebrating the strengthening sun. We lit a candle and made our dedication for the coming year. Thinking of the light with-out and the light within, we lit candles around the house.
The house is dressed with the gifts of greenery from the forest, Holly, Ivy, Pine and Spruce, representing our hospitality to the Green Plant Spirits and our recognition of the sun’s vital role in generating life on this planet.
As we lit the candles we thought of all the aspirations we had for ourselves for the coming year. We thought of how we all carry Divine Light within and how can we best use it for the benefit of ourselves and for others. What do we want to illuminate and allow to shine?
Eventually the day lightened – we still couldn’t see the sun for the mist but our house was well lit and we felt full of optimism for the coming year. All will be well in 2018, all is well. May the blessing of the light be with you. As my yoga friends say, may the sun shine upon you. Happy Yule.