LIGHT

At first, it is a shock when we return to Standard Time. Yet, as I become used to the early darkness, I find comfort in it. When I return home, it is time to light the candles and the fire, make peppermint tea and pick up a book.

This year, my thoughts turn to the weariness we feel as yet another surge of the virus emerges. So many family holiday plans disrupted; so many more lives lost; so many health scares sending us to rapid testing sights.

I think of all the people living in big cities, tucked so close together and am grateful for the wide-open spaces of Colorado.

It is an oxymoron time of year. As the holidays approach the stress levels rise. The list of responsibilities grows longer. Shopping, food preparation, gifts, meals, and family gatherings all tumble together.

In opposition, the lack of light is inviting us to turn into the dark, quiet stillness of the approaching Solstice, Christmas, and Hanukkah happenings. Originally celebrated as a time of reflection, at year’s end, with family and community and comfort from the cold. No wonder we experience a bit of anxiety!

This year, I find myself in a peaceful, reflective space. As I sit by the warmth of the fire, I remember the Christmas rituals of my childhood. Snow falling past the garage light as my sister, and I peered out to see if Santa could make it to our house. All our cousins up from New York stuffed into every nook of our tiny place. The ritual meals at the homes of Grandmother’s siblings (the elders of my childhood) who lived ‘down the hill’ from us.

Presently, I am grateful for my age, as I can truly rest and enjoy quietly turning inward. I hope each of you find a moment of peace and reflection as we light the candles and harvest another year of life.

May we all be safe and healthy.

Love,

Elizabeth