The winter Solstice may be my most favorite pagan/natural holiday of the year. The Solstice eve is the longest night of the year while it births/rebirths the Light, the sun waxing, the dark waning. While realizing I am most likely in the minority, I love the long nights, the early nights, and the deep nights. I also love the birth of the Light. Tonight also gifts us the full moon, the full moon in Cancer, even more Light.
The Yule log is part of the winter Solstice ritual. It holds three candles, celebrating Bridget, one of the several triple Goddesses. The triple Goddess signifies the cycle of birth, life, and death/rebirth. I celebrate the cycle and the energy of Light. Living in Cleveland, Ohio, this year has brought far more grey days than sunlight. If I did not believe in Light energy, I would be quite dismayed and depressed. I’m grateful the Light is reborn today.
The Light of Christianity – the birth of the enlightened Jesus coincides with the Solstice, the birth of Nature’s Light for us in the Northern hemisphere. As the Light is re-birthed once again, we can think of new life, new beginnings, and let go of that which no longer serves us. I can let go of material things, but also habits, grudges, moods, and thoughts that do nothing for me. (or for others, most likely).
I can let go of relating to the dark forces in power with dark negative emotions, words, and fears. I have a choice to relate with Light. I can shine Light upon the dark powers. It reminds me of lifting up a heavy rock and seeing all the creepy, crawly things scatter and run for their lives. We know the creepy crawly things do not like Light.
If you celebrate Christmas and are feeling crunched by time and obligations, take a moment to think about what no longer serves you. Let the Light shine upon what might better serve you. Celebrate the rebirth of Light! Let your Light shine. May it bring you Joy.
Light and Joy
Gabrielle
December 21 2018