Welcoming Back the Light

I spent my morning at the dentist, which went very well. And, I am very grateful. Today is also a special day. It is the first day of winter here in the Northern Hemisphere and the first day of summer for our brothers and sisters in the Southern Hemisphere. Today is also Yule or Yuletide, which is a festival of renewal and light. Yule has traditionally been celebrated for millenia in the Northern Hemisphere by the Norse people. It has been a time for feasting, merrymaking and sacrifice. The Celts,  the Romans, the Greeks and the Egyptians also had similar festivities in and around wintertime.

Customs such as the Yule log, the decorated tree, wreaths of holly and evergreens, wassailing (caroling), mistletoe, gift-giving, using the colors: red, green, white, gold and silver, cookies, cakes, fruits, nuts, cider, eggnog, turkey, pork (ham), feasting, and honoring a god (of agriculture) came from Yuletide and related celebrations. The Catholic church later sanctified these traditions and incorporated them into Christian traditions to win over non-Christians (with the Christmas celebration December 25). I find the overlap of the symbolism of the return of the light (and the Sun) and the return of Christ (the Son of God) to be remarkable. Yule is truly a wonderful celebration filled with rituals of renewal and joy for the return of longer days. You can learn more of Yule at:

History of Yule (About.com) 
All about Yule (About.com)
Yule in the Northern Isles
The Winter Solstice – Yule Lore
Yule

I feel it is important to understand and appreciate the customs and traditions of others. In this way we can truly bring back the light and be love for one another. Wishing you and yours a Joyous Winter Solstice and Yule Blessings and Peace; good-bye to darkness and hello to a very Merry Christmas.

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Winter Solstice

Winter Solstice

by Dr. Angela K. Orboko

The shortest day of the year approaches.
It is upon us, the dark winter solstice.

Some believe this may be the end of human time.
I know it to be the start of new reasoning and rhyme.

Love will rule our hearts as we help our sisters and brothers…
Of every religion, creed, culture and color.

The power’s within us to create a world of love, serenity and bliss.
All we need to do is BELIEVE it already exists.

Welcome the light as we approach Spring and Summer.
Yes, I know, our kin are already experiencing it, Down Under.

Happy Winter/Summer Solstice!

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• Everything you need to know: Winter solstice 2012 (earthsky.org)

Appreciating Warmth

As the days grow shorter and colder in the Northern Hemisphere, I am having a greater appreciation for warmth, for heat and for adequate layers of clothing to maintain my body heat. As I took Sasha out for her walk today, the chill in the air caught me by surprise as I didn’t wear enough layers. The warm air in my home was absolutely welcoming.

I am deeply grateful that I have a warm home to comfort me. I appreciate the sweaters, jackets, the coats, scarves, gloves and hats that I have to adequately cover me to keep me warm when I do venture outdoors. I am thankful for the blankets and quilt on my bed that surround me as I sleep keeping me toasty, comfy and cozy.

Oh, how I delight in cup of hot tea or a mug of hot cocoa on days like today. Tonight is a great night for a steaming bowl of soup or chili. I also look forward to snuggling up to my husband, later this evening. What are your favorite ways to stay warm on chilly days like today? How will you keep yourself warm as winter approaches? Relish in the warmth and be thankful.

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