A Powerful Moment of Annual Turning
In many cultures, traditions associated with the winter
solstice on December 21—marking the longest night and shortest day of
the year—spark celebrations. But with all the winter holiday to-dos and
fewer daylight hours, this fun time of year can also be draining.
Rituals can help us remember that life, like the sun, is cycling itself
to rebound with strength.
We can recognize the solstice as a
powerful moment of annual turning by lighting a candle or burning a Yule
log, in keeping with ancient traditions. It’s a time to seek warmth by
surrounding ourselves with friends and family dear to our hearts. It’s a
time to bring mistletoe, holly, ivy and piney evergreens home, gather
around the table, laugh over shared stories, read poetry and renew our
spirits with photographed memories of recent vacations.
Solstice
brings a time of stillness and reflection. Placing seeds such as acorns
into an offering bowl serves as a gentle reminder of nature’s empowering
renewal of life through rebirth. Children will enjoy venturing outdoors
to look at the stars through a telescope. Stargazing on a clear night
is a humbling experience that can shift and lift our mood and
perspective.
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