Happy New Year thoughts
We did two Yule rits this year -- once with coven, and once with guests who were visiting from out of town. Both of these were good WORK, and I am proud of them. I am especially proud that they helped wake the sun on Solstice morning. For the first time ever, we had clear skies and could see the sunrise at Stonehenge. (Note to self, two Yule rits for next year, too!)
Here is a closer version. "And the Sun brings forth Light..."
We also did Christmas Eve Day in London with the NY ex-Pats, stayed up until 3am talking to family and wrapping presents. Then we had a miraculously quiet, wonderful Christmas Day with just me and Nomad, opening stockings, having an amazing dinner at Cafe Rouge where they treated us like royalty, followed by more presents, games, and snuggles.
I post all of this to remind myself that Winter is not easy. Winter is not fair.
Winter simply is as it always is and always will be -- an opportunity.
A time for introspection and warm thoughts, to keep cold despair at bay.
A time for hearth and home, to store up heat and happiness against future storms.
A time for deep contemplation and the discovery of one's own quiet depths.
A time for standing alone, seeing the world around and one's self clearly.
A time to let go of the old, to bring in the new, as my very dear friends in the wilds of Pennsylvania will note tonight. (I miss youse guys -- see you in October!)
Because I know far too many people who have struggled and fought, who have had a NO GOOD VERY BAD YEAR, I toast this to you:
Click to viewAnd lastly, this reminder to dream and wish and create sparks of joy in your soul:
Happy New Year.
Love, Chesh