Solstice

The Winter Solstice arrives on December 21 at 12:11 EST this year, marking the point at which the sun is farthest south of the equator. For many people, this marks the beginning of the sad—and maybe SAD—time of year.

I get it (sort of), but I don’t really relate. For me, winter is a beautiful time. I actually like snow (regardless of the occasional aggravations of shoveling and driving). The cold doesn’t really bother me. The short daylight hours get to me a little bit, but I do enjoy the prolonged “quiet” hours. (Even if it isn’t truly quiet in our homes, it’s quiet in the natural world.)

The solstice is historically a very joyous time. For the ancients and pre-historics, imagine the relief when the days stopped getting shorter. The sun wasn’t dying! Also, it was the time of germinating, hibernating, resting, and enjoying the harvest. Recharge time! Obviously, Christmas falls right around the solstice, as does Hanukah and (as of 1966) Kwanzaa. The New Year begins soon after, and it’s a great time of looking forward and looking back. Overall, I guess I just appreciate the opportunities for reflection and enjoying the more quiet moments of this slower time of year.

But if winter isn’t your favorite time of year, maybe try to open up to it a little bit. You might find some hidden treasures. And if not, hang in there.

It’s only 89 days until spring!