Happy Solstice ! 

“Arise, shine, for your light has come!”
~ George Frideric Handel ~
1741

Like our ancestors have done from the beginning of time, today we honor the cycles and the seasons. Since ancient times to this present day, we have been celebrating special days that mark the passage of time. Today we celebrate the longest night and the shortest day. This is a reminder to us of the ever-changing flow of life that we are all a part. Celebrate the rebirth of the sun and our community of life on this earth and a time to celebrate our ancestors and our living loved ones.

Ritual acts give life meaning, honor and acknowledge the unseen web of Life that connects us all to Source. This is a meaningful way to gather with friends and honor the true spirit of the season, setting aside all the traditions of the modern world in which marking tactics encourage us to buy more things we don’t really need. Let us be in gratitude for all our abundance and what we already have.

During the Winter and Summer Solstice, the sun rises and sets in visibly the same location in the sky, whereas during the rest of the year, it moves across the sky from day to day. We welcome the return of longer days until the Summer Solstice.

Through simple acts of connection and community, we have that natural impulse to “go within” at this blessed time of year, a time for New Beginnings. This is a time for us to reclaim our connection to the Source of all life to commemorate this pivotal moment in time as we look at ourselves inwardly and re-kindle our inner fire.

Together, let us welcome the darkness.

Together, let us remember and honor the Sun’s brilliant light.

Here’s some things to do for your Winter Solstice ceremony.

1. Light a main candle. Each person in turn lights their candle and places in a circle around the main candle. Once all the candles are lit say in unison “Happy Solstice”. Your table could be decorated with things from Nature like pine branches, pine cones, pods, logs or bark.
2. Hand out small pieces of paper and pens. Each person write down something they want to release from their life. It could be a bad habit, ending a relationship, changing locations or an obstacle that has been in their way. Everyone gather around the fire. Center your thoughts for a few moments on what you have written. Give it up to the Universe. Then, each take a turn throwing their paper into the fire releasing their intention. Seal the ritual with drumming, dancing and singing.
3. On another piece of paper write your intention or a word for the coming year. It could be a phrase or just one word. Perhaps the word “shift” , “presence” or “allow”, follow your dream, connect with a loved one you haven’t seen in awhile, leave your ego behind or get healthy. Pause for a reflection on the past season and the coming year with quietness and reverence. Perhaps have a time of sharing your intention. Keep this paper and place it somewhere in your home where you will be reminded of it for the coming year. 

Solstice Blessings!

Happy Longer Days.

Return to Light.